1998 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1999 Toyota MR2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota MR2 (127 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Escort weights approximately 185 kg more than 1999 Toyota MR2.
Because 1999 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 1999 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Escort, 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, 1999 Toyota MR2 (176 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm). This means 1999 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Escort | 1999 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escort | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
