Toyota MR2 MkI

ENGINE 1587cc/4-cyl/DOHC POWER 122bhp@6600rpm TORQUE 105lb ft@5200rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 118mph 0-60MPH 7.7sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 26-38mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, five speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 102,020 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

Tickover when cold is rather high – around 2000rpm – and takes a while to subside. This is, however, a lovely engine; sonorous and willing in its power delivery, with a rev needle that flies freely upwards. The non-assisted steering offers plenty of feedback and the car tracks straight and true down the road, although a little vagueness from the front makes itself apparent as you approach 70mph – nothing severe, though. Each gear engages perfectly; in fact, the smooth action is one of the most satisfying elements of the driving experience. Almost as enjoyable is the brake pedal, which has a superbly progressive feel. All the gauges work, and the headlamps pop up on command. Everything feels planted and healthy.

BODYWORK CHECK

There are hardly any flaws in the lustrous paint, bar a few chips along the leading edge of the driver’s door and a small paint crack at the rear of the nearside sill cover, which looks to have been removed and possibly resprayed. The rear bumper is spotless and the 14-inch wheels are free from scuffs. They’re fitted with matching Dunlop 185/60 tyres with plenty of tread, although there’s more on the fronts than there is on the rears.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The blue velour cabin is in exemplary condition. The neat array of cubby holes and storage areas are all immaculate, as is the blue velour trim. Seats, carpets and door cards are all unmarked; so too are the leather steering wheel, gear lever gaiter and mats. Only the fading plastic door handles and ash tray – plus a small crack in the nearside corner of the dash – belie the car’s age. The Alpine head unit, electric windows, immobiliser, and all other switches and buttons operate perfectly.

UNDER THE BONNET

There’s little to report in the engine bay. It’s dusty – though the dealer hadn’t finished it’s pre -sale preparation when we visited – but there are no leaks or signs of trouble. The drive belt looks fresh, but there are few other obviously recent components on show. There’s no conspicuous corrosion to worry about – just surface rust around the battery tray. Pulling the dipstick reveals reasonably clean oil. The timing belt is 10,000 miles old and the service history shows recent fitment of bushes and anti-roll bar link rods. A stainless exhaust is fitted and the radiator appears to be in good condition.

THE CCW VIEW

The MR2’s comfy and practical interior set it apart from many other sports cars of the era, while this facelift model’s T-bar configuration and unmodified spec make it a particularly attractive example. Keep the rust at bay and its value is sure to climb.

EXTERIOR Excellent body Bling-free INTERIOR Unmarked velour Practical and original MECHANICALS Thrilling to drive Low mileage