1997 Toyota MR2 vs. 2010 Mazda 2
To start off, 2010 Mazda 2 is newer by 13 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 88 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 2. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 280 kg more than 2010 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 Mazda 2, 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 2. (122 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota MR2 | 2010 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | MR2 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1347 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 43 L |
