2001 Toyota MR2 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 326 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Toyota MR2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 170 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:
| 2001 Toyota MR2 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1284 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 |
