2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1990 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,164 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1990 Toyota MR2. (135 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 67 kg more than 1990 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1990 Toyota MR2 (196 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1990 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2164 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
