1998 Toyota MR2 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Toyota MR2. (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 244 kg more than 1998 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50, 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Toyota MR2 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | MR2 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
