1998 Toyota MR2 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 10 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 123 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1998 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Toyota MR2 | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | MR2 | Polo |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1390 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 | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 12.0:1 |
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 | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1112 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |