The 2ZR-FE 1.8-liter engine is available only on the basic model of the Matrix, which is rated at 132 horsepower at 6000 RPMS and delivers 128 pound-feet of torque. The Corolla also uses the 2ZR-FE engine and a variant of that engine, the 2ZR-FXE, is used on the Prius.

The 2AZ-FE 2.4-liter engine, which is required for the S and XRS versions, packs 158 horses and 162 pounds of torque. It also shares the 2AZ-FE engine with the Corolla.

The 1.8 liter engine has a 80.5 millimeter bore and a stroke of 88.4 millimeters. The 2.4 liter has a 88.4 mm bore, and a 96.0 mm stroke. Both run on standard 87 octane gas, have double overhead cams and variable valve timing.

The 2.4 liter engine has a little more oomph to it, but you’re probably not buying the Matrix as a muscle car. Thus, the 1.8 liter option seems to be the better of the two options, unless you want the more stylish S and XRS versions of the car. handiweb.