2003 Opel Astra vs. 1995 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (174 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1995 Toyota MR2. (173 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1995 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 175 kg more than 1995 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel 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, 2003 Opel Astra (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1995 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Opel | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
