2002 Audi A3 vs. 2001 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Audi A3 is newer by 1 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 39 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 405 kg more than 2002 Audi A3. 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, 2002 Audi A3, 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 2002 Audi A3. (148 Nm). This means 2001 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2001 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Audi | Toyota |
| Model | A3 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
