1997 Toyota MR2 vs. 2010 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2010 Toyota RAV4 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Toyota MR2. (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 289 kg more than 1997 Toyota MR2. 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 Toyota RAV4, 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, 2010 Toyota RAV4 (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2010 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota MR2. 2010 Toyota RAV4 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. 2010 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota MR2 | 2010 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | MR2 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
