2001 Toyota MR2 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Toyota MR2 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 36 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 386 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2001 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm). This means 2001 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Toyota MR2 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2520 mm |
