MR2 PROJECT BUYER

Nobody is likely to fully restore one of these for a while. However, there lots of tatty examples out there that just need some TLC. The most likely reason is a knackered engine, but secondhand replacements are plentiful as the same unit went in the Yaris, Auris and Avensis.

Many owners take the opportunity to switch to a 2ZZ-GE engine, as in the Elise, Celica and Corolla T-sport. Stronger, more reliable, tuneable and more powerful, it slots straight in, although one of the four mountings needs to be adjusted. It’s even possible to fit a 3.0-litre V6 from a Toyota Camry, with or without a supercharger.

There are loads of reasons to take on an MR2 project. You can do virtually everything yourself and parts availability is superb; most new bit are costly but virtually everything is available used. And along the way you can incorporate all sorts of upgrades. Says Patrick Mortell: ‘Most owners focus on handling which is why they’ll fit coilovers available off the shelf. Fitting a 2ZZ-GE engine is popular as it has an 8300rpm redline instead of the 1ZZFE’S 6750rpm. We can fit a 2ZZ-GE engine for £3000 all in and while you’d want to upgrade the suspension too, there’s no need to upgrade the brakes.’

WHAT TO PAY?

Project: £500 Runner: £1500 Good: £2500

THINK AGAIN IF…

There’s significant crash damage or major corrosion