2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 60 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 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, 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2259 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
