2006 Mazda 2 vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 455 kg more than 2006 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 2, 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, 2002 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 2. (146 Nm). This means 2002 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 2 | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 2 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 72 L |
