2009 Toyota Prius vs. 1996 Toyota MR2

To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Prius (110 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2009 Toyota Prius.

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 Toyota Prius, 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, 1996 Toyota MR2 (131 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm). This means 1996 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius. 2009 Toyota Prius 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 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Toyota Prius 1996 Toyota MR2
Make Toyota Toyota
Model Prius MR2
Year Released 2009 1996
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 1495 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 110 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 111 Nm 131 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1330 kg 1615 kg
Vehicle Length 4450 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1250 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 75 L