2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Toyota MR-S
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Toyota MR-S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Toyota MR-S would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Toyota MR-S. (140 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Toyota MR-S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1999 Toyota MR-S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Toyota MR-S 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 1999 Toyota MR-S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Toyota MR-S. (176 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Toyota MR-S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1999 Toyota MR-S | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | MR-S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
