2004 Toyota MR2 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Toyota MR2 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 4 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (138 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 300 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Toyota MR2 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Toyota | Chevrolet |
| Model | MR2 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 48 L |
