2009 Pontiac Torrent vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Torrent (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 286 kg more than 2009 Pontiac Torrent.
Because 1996 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 1996 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Torrent, 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 Pontiac Torrent (339 Nm) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2009 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2009 Pontiac Torrent has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Pontiac Torrent | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Toyota |
| Model | Torrent | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 75 L |
