2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1995 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 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, 1995 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 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 | 1995 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1996 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
