2004 Holden Astra vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Holden Astra (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 337 kg more than 2004 Holden Astra.
Because 1996 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Holden Astra (173 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2004 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Holden Astra | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Holden | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
