1999 Toyota MR2 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1999 Toyota MR2. (140 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 357 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, 2011 Mazda 3, 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, both vehicles can yield 183 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Toyota MR2 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | MR2 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
