Just as many people can remember where they were when significant historic events occurred, I can clearly recall seeing my first Toyota MR2 “in the flesh.” Purchased by a friend in dazzling Super Red, I was immediately taken by its styling and two-seat interior. This MR2 is a 1986 example that is a genuine survivor. It presents extremely well and, with only 45,000 miles on the clock, is ready for action with a new owner behind the wheel. The seller has listed the Toyota here on eBay in Van Nuys, California. Bidding sits at $7,600, which is below the seller’s reserve.
Toyota released the First Generation MR2 in 1984. The company broke new ground, with the MR2 representing the country’s first mid-engined sports car. This generation remained on sale until 1989, with our feature car rolling off the line in 1986. It presents nicely in Code 204 Black. The paint retains a healthy shine, and with straight panels, there are no genuine cosmetic shortcomings. The exterior plastic is in good condition, and even the damage-prone front spoiler looks good. It earns additional points for the factory sunroof, offering occupants an alternative if they aren’t fans of air conditioning. The wheels are free from significant stains and physical damage, and the glass is clear.
Part of the secret to the MR2’s success was its low curb weight. Tipping the scales at approximately 2,350 lbs and with four-wheel independent suspension, it provided agile handling and an engaging driving experience. Power comes from a mid-mounted 1.6-liter fuel-injected DOHC four, producing a factory-quoted 115hp. Admittedly, that isn’t much power, but the motor doesn’t have much mass to move. The standard transmission was the five-speed manual, but this car features the optional four-speed automatic transaxle. That is disappointing, because it may dampen the driving enjoyment. However, it is possible to manually shift these transmissions, which may provide some relief. The seller states this beauty has 45,000 miles on the clock, and its condition makes the claim plausible. It runs and drives well, ready to hit the road with its new owner behind the wheel.
Trimmed in Black and Gray velour cloth, this Toyota’s interior looks surprisingly good. UV exposure can exact a heavy toll on cloth and plastic, but the car’s garage-kept history has protected it nicely. There are no genuine cosmetic issues, and no evidence of abuse. It isn’t showroom-fresh, but if assessed as a driver-grade classic, the condition is comfortably acceptable. One of the interior’s greatest strengths is the seats, which are body-hugging and extremely comfortable. The seven-way adjustment on the driver’s seat makes tailoring the driving position a breeze. The seller states that the air conditioning blows ice cold. The buyer also receives power windows, power locks, power mirrors, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player.
This 1986 Toyota MR2 is a sweet little survivor, and the company’s legendary reliability should provide its new owner with years of dependable service. It presents well, and its interior hasn’t deteriorated with age or UV exposure. The only disappointment is the original owner’s decision to order the car with the optional automatic transmission. This will blunt its outright performance, and the driving experience won’t be as engaging as it would be with the five-speed manual. However, it should still be fun on twisting roads, where the driver can exploit the excellent handling. Would you consider owning an MR2, or doesn’t this gem tick the boxes for you?
Great find! Depending on the purchase price and the buyer’s intentions one can convert this to a 5-speed with appropriate equipment fairly easily as it is documented on social media platforms. Again – if you want to keep it stock based on conditions that is fine as well but having owned one (Red over grey) these cars are meant to be be driven with a manual transmission to be fully enjoyed.
One of Toyota’s best!