2001 Toyota MR2 vs. 1978 Toyota Celica
To start off, 2001 Toyota MR2 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Toyota Celica. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1978 Toyota Celica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 615 kg more than 1978 Toyota Celica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Toyota Celica. (118 Nm). This means 2001 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Toyota Celica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Toyota MR2 | 1978 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | MR2 | Celica |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
