2002 Holden Astra vs. 1990 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Holden Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,164 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Toyota MR2 (135 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2002 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden Astra, 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, 1990 Toyota MR2 (196 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1990 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Holden Astra | 1990 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Holden | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2164 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2610 mm |
