2002 Toyota MR2 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Toyota MR2 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
