2006 Toyota MR2 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Toyota MR2 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,792 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 140 kg more than 2006 Toyota MR2.
Because 2006 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 2006 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2006 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Toyota MR2 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | MR2 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1792 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.5 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
