2001 Toyota MR2 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 10 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2001 Toyota MR2. (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 156 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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, 2011 Kia Optima (252 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Toyota MR2 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Toyota | Kia |
| Model | MR2 | Optima |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2797 mm |
