1999 Toyota MR2 vs. 1990 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Toyota MR2 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Golf (161 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1999 Toyota MR2. (127 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 92 kg more than 1999 Toyota MR2. 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, 1990 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, 1990 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota MR2. (176 Nm). This means 1990 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Toyota MR2 | 1990 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2480 mm |
