2004 Toyota MR2 vs. 1966 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Toyota MR2 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota MR2 (142 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Toyota MR2 | 1966 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 40 L |
