2004 Toyota MR2 vs. 1987 Nissan Santana
To start off, 2004 Toyota MR2 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan Santana 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 49 more horse power than 1987 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1987 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan Santana weights approximately 5 kg more than 2004 Toyota MR2.
Because 2004 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 2004 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Nissan Santana, 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 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Nissan Santana. (143 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Nissan Santana. 1987 Nissan Santana has automatic transmission and 2004 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 2004 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Nissan Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Toyota MR2 | 1987 Nissan Santana | |
| Make | Toyota | Nissan |
| Model | MR2 | Santana |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2560 mm |
