Toyota MR2

vs

Toyota Land Cruiser

Japan vs Japan — 1989 vs 1990

Toyota MR2 (1989)
Toyota Land Cruiser (1990)
Specifications
MR2 Turbo (SW20)Land Cruiser 80 Series VX
Horsepower245 hp215 hp
Torque224 lb-ft
Engine Size1,998 cc4,477 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec
Top Speed152 mph
¼ Mile14.2 sec
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,850 mm
Length4,170 mm4,820 mm
Value (Excellent)$50,000$80,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity6/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1989 Toyota MR2 Turbo (SW20) brings more power to the table, and the 1990 Toyota Land Cruiser 80 Series VX answers with its own distinct appeal. 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 1990 Toyota Land Cruiser 80 Series VX highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1989 Toyota MR2 Turbo (SW20) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 245 hp compared to 215 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Toyota MR2 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbo displacing 1,998 cc, while the Toyota Land Cruiser relies on a Inline-6 with 4,477 cc. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.