1999 Toyota MR2 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Toyota MR2 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1981 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (183 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Toyota MR2 | 1981 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | MR2 | Golf |
Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 79 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91.5 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 45 L |