2004 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Opel Astra. (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 90 kg more than 1997 Toyota MR2.
Because 1997 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 1997 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Astra. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 1997 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Opel | Toyota |
| Model | Astra | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
