By the 1980s, Toyota’s Parts Bin was full of components that it felt were ideal for producing a mid-engine, two-seat sports car. Rather than dreaming about what could be, it released the MR2 in 1984. Our featured MR2 rolled off the line in 1986 and is an exceptionally tidy survivor with a mere 27,000 miles on the clock. Barn Finder Chuck F. deserves credit for spotting this beauty listed here on HiBid in Ocoee, Florida, where the bidding has reached $16,550.
Toyota’s First Generation MR2 was on sale from 1984 to 1989. Penned by Naoki Nagatsu, it featured the sharp-edged “wedge” design that dominated vehicle styling at the time. Our featured car rolled off the line in 1986, and it isn’t the first time it’s crossed the auction block. It sold for $30,750 almost exactly four years ago and appears not to have seen much action since. The first owner ordered it in Code 204 Black, and its presentation remains extremely tidy. The paint retains a deep shine, and the panels are straight. Close inspection reveals minor chips, but as a genuine survivor, its presentation is mighty impressive. I see no evidence of rust, and the car earns extra points for its factory sunroof. Toyota was probably the leader in plastic technology development for the automotive industry during the 1970s and 1980s, so the lack of bumper and spoiler deterioration isn’t surprising. The alloy wheels are clean, and the glass is clear.
The MR2 wasn’t Toyota’s first attempt at producing a two-seat sports car, but it was its most successful. Unlike the 2000GT, which was hideously expensive, the company brought the MR2 to market as an affordable halo model, which was a noteworthy achievement. Affordability didn’t mean a sparse interior, because while it has vast expanses of plastic, the car also features Black leather trim, air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, a leather-wrapped wheel, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player. The driver’s seat shows minor wear on the outer seat bolster, which is almost inevitable. However, since no holes appear to be developing, a leather specialist might be able to address the problem and prevent further deterioration. The remaining trim looks excellent, and the wheel leather still looks soft and wear-free.
This MR2 is powered by Toyota’s 1.6-liter 4A-GE DOHC four, mid-mounted for excellent weight distribution. This motor will scream to a 7,500rpm redline, sending 112hp and 97 ft/lbs of torque to the road through a five-speed manual transaxle. Toyota took a “total package” approach when developing the MR2, equipping it with four-wheel disc brakes and four-wheel independent suspension for excellent braking and sure-footed handling. The motor may not deliver much power or torque, but the MR2’s curb weight of about 2,300 lbs means it has little mass to shift. These cars shine on twisting roads, delivering a genuinely rewarding driving experience. The listing indicates an odometer reading of 27,000 original miles, and the overall condition supports that claim. The car runs and drives, appearing to be a turnkey proposition.
The Toyota MR2 might be gone, but it isn’t forgotten. The company recently revealed it is considering producing a successor that carries forward the design philosophy of its First Generation model. It will once again be small and powered by a mid-mounted twin-cam four-cylinder engine. It has said it won’t embrace hybrid technology, focusing on bringing a new MR2 to market with a low curb weight for an entertaining driving experience. It is unclear when, or if, that will happen. Until then, classics like this immaculate 1986 MR2 will fill the void. The bidding action suggests enthusiasts want to embrace the rewarding driving experience these cars offer, but do you feel strongly enough to join the bidding?
My 86 had more miles on it and wasn’t in as nice a condition as this one, but still a great little car.