2004 Toyota MR2 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2004 Toyota MR2 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 270 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, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Toyota MR2 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | MR2 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 58 L |
