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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2001 Toyota MR2. (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota MR2. 2006 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2001 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 2001 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2580 mm |
