2003 Opel Astra vs. 2006 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2006 Toyota MR2 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,792 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 125 kg more than 2006 Toyota MR2.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2006 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Opel | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 48 L |
