Toyota MR2

vs

Toyota GR Yaris

Japan vs Japan — 1989 vs 2020

Toyota MR2 (1989)
Toyota GR Yaris (2020)
Specifications
MR2 Turbo (SW20)GR Yaris Circuit Pack
Horsepower245 hp261 hp
Torque224 lb-ft266 lb-ft
Engine Size1,998 cc1,618 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec5.2 sec
Top Speed152 mph143 mph
¼ Mile14.2 sec13.6 sec
Weight2,822 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,560 mm
Length4,170 mm3,995 mm
Original MSRP$36,580
Value (Excellent)$50,000$55,000
Collectibility5/108/10
Rarity6/105/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1989 Toyota MR2 Turbo (SW20) brings higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 2020 Toyota GR Yaris Circuit Pack answers with quicker acceleration, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Toyota has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1989 Toyota MR2 Turbo (SW20) with the 2020 Toyota GR Yaris Circuit Pack highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1989 Toyota MR2 Turbo (SW20) producing 245 hp and the 2020 Toyota GR Yaris Circuit Pack delivering 261 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota MR2 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbo displacing 1,998 cc, while the Toyota GR Yaris relies on a Inline-3 DOHC Turbocharged with 1,618 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2020 Toyota GR Yaris Circuit Pack edges ahead at 5.2 seconds versus 5.9 seconds. On the collector market, the 2020 Toyota GR Yaris Circuit Pack commands a significant premium over the 1989 Toyota MR2 Turbo (SW20), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2020 Toyota GR Yaris Circuit Pack rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.