TOYOTA MR2 (MK3)
The last Midship Roadster majors on lightweight appeal
AS FAR AS VALUE FOR MONEY GOES, YOU WON’T DO much better than a Mk3 MR2. While they might lack the exotic appeal of the F-type and modern amenities of the Abarth 124, they bring drop-top driving back to basics. Sold between 1999 and 2007 as Toyota’s alternative to the MX-5, it offered the same mid-engined, rear-drive layout as its predecessors, and was the marque’s last true sports car before the launch of the GT86.
Chief engineer Tadashi Nakagawa described the Mk3 MR2 as having broken the ‘cycle of growth’ in the industry, something almost completely unheard of today. The car’s dimensions and weight were both notably lower than its predecessor’s, making it a much more desirable driver’s choice.
Pair its 975kg kerb weight with its 1.8-litre DOHC naturally aspirated four-cylinder, and its 138bhp output feels much more spritely than in the Celica the engine is borrowed from. Driving the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox, 0-62mph is gone in a respectable 8.0sec with top speed at 132mph. A fivespeed automatic gearbox became available not long after launch, with the five-speed manual replaced by a six-speed in 2002.
The MR2 was a strong performer from its launch, but new crossmembers, front and rear braces and rear struts, plus modifications to the floor pan and transmission tunnel, increased rigidity in 2004. Regardless of whether you opt for a pre- or postfacelift car, though, you’ll be in possession of a cracking driver’s drop-top. Though not as exotic as the MX-5’S double-wishbone layout, the MR2’S Macpherson struts still perform well, helping it outhandle cars in a much higher price bracket.
As is becoming increasingly apparent in 2023, running a lightweight performance car benefits more than just the driving experience. Running costs are considerably lower, with consumption of fuel, brakes and kinematic components all reduced – and when you do finally need to replace components, they also tend to be much cheaper than those for heavier machines.
As with most cars of this age, there are a few things to be aware of when buying used. Its aluminium wheels are known to corrode more than you might usually expect, causing irreparable damage and the potential for complete structural failure should it be particularly bad. Check elsewhere for rust, particularly on the rear subframe, and if the car looks to have been used on track there are obvious risks of increased wear to a variety of components regardless of mileage. Drain holes for the roof are also prone to blockages, something that can cause water ingress into the cabin.
The engine is a solid unit overall, but pre-cat failure can cause debris to fall back into the engine, which is obviously undesirable. This problem is more common on pre-facelift cars produced before 2003 and can be solved with the removal of the pre-cat. Early warning signs are an oxygen lambda sensor warning light, excessive oil use and smoke – if you spot any of these when viewing a car, it’s probably worth your while to walk away.
Predictably, the MR2 is the most affordable of this selection by far, with prices for early, six-figure-mileage cars starting at just over £1000. A sensible budget would be somewhere in the region of £3000, though, with the very best examples with c30,000 miles costing from around £7000.