2005 Toyota MR2 vs. 1979 Talbot 1510
To start off, 2005 Toyota MR2 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Talbot 1510. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Talbot 1510 would be higher. At 1,802 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1979 Talbot 1510. (87 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1979 Talbot 1510. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Talbot 1510 weights approximately 99 kg more than 2005 Toyota MR2.
Because 2005 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 2005 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Talbot 1510, 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, 2005 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Talbot 1510. (136 Nm). This means 2005 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Talbot 1510. 1979 Talbot 1510 has automatic transmission and 2005 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 2005 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Talbot 1510 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Toyota MR2 | 1979 Talbot 1510 | |
| Make | Toyota | Talbot |
| Model | MR2 | 1510 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1802 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2610 mm |
