2002 Mazda 2 vs. 1989 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Mazda 2 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota MR2 (221 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 2, 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, 1989 Toyota MR2 (305 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 2 | 1989 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 2 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
