2001 Toyota MR2 vs. 1989 TVR S2
To start off, 2001 Toyota MR2 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 TVR S2 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2001 Toyota MR2. (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1989 TVR S2.
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, 1989 TVR S2 (220 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 1989 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Toyota MR2 | 1989 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Toyota | TVR |
| Model | MR2 | S2 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2290 mm |
