2005 Toyota MR2 vs. 1985 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Toyota MR2 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo 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 100 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 296 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1985 Volkswagen Polo, 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm). This means 2005 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Toyota MR2 | 1985 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1802 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
