1997 Toyota MR2 vs. 2009 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Prius. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Prius weights approximately 95 kg more than 1997 Toyota MR2.
Because 1997 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (82 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius. 2009 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota MR2 | 2009 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | MR2 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
