The Toyota MR2 is a two-seat, mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car manufactured in Japan and marketed globally by Toyota from 1984 to 2007 over three generations: Generation 1 (W10, 1984–1989), Generation 2 (W20, 1989–1999) and Generation 3 (W30, 1999–2007). It is Japan's first mid-engined production car.
Conceived as a small, economical and sporty car, the MR2 employed straightforward design elements, including fully independent MacPherson strut front and rear suspensions, four wheel disc brakes, and transverse-mounted inline-four engines. The name MR2 stands for either "mid-ship, run-about, 2-seater" or "mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-seater. (wikipedia)
The MR2 went through a complete redesign in 1989 (though North America did not receive them until late 1990 as 1991 models). The new car was larger and weighed 350 to 400 pounds (160 to 180 kg) more than its predecessor. The body styling was now much more rounded and streamlined, bearing a resemblance to both the Ferrari 348 and the Ferrari F355. Because of this, the new MR2 was labeled by some as "The poor man's Ferrari". Despite this, the new look was generally well received, and undoubtedly helped sales.
Conceived as a small, economical and sporty car, the MR2 employed straightforward design elements, including fully independent MacPherson strut front and rear suspensions, four wheel disc brakes, and transverse-mounted inline-four engines. The name MR2 stands for either "mid-ship, run-about, 2-seater" or "mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-seater. (wikipedia)
Toyota MR2 - Generation 2 (1989-99)
The MR2 went through a complete redesign in 1989 (though North America did not receive them until late 1990 as 1991 models). The new car was larger and weighed 350 to 400 pounds (160 to 180 kg) more than its predecessor. The body styling was now much more rounded and streamlined, bearing a resemblance to both the Ferrari 348 and the Ferrari F355. Because of this, the new MR2 was labeled by some as "The poor man's Ferrari". Despite this, the new look was generally well received, and undoubtedly helped sales.
Engine options from the basic 2.0 L 3S-GE I4 producing 165 PS (121 kW; 163 hp) to a turbocharged 2.0L 3S-GTE engine producing 200 hp (149 kW). (wikipedia)
There were several options for roofs on the SW20. The base model was the Hard Top. The Sunroof was a popular option. It had the ability to raise up as a vent or be removed completely and stored in the Frunk or Trunk. The T-Tops are the most common models to find. The two tops are removable and can be stored behind the seats. The T-top MR2’s are notorious for leaking when it rains or when you wash the car.
The turbo models came with the “turbo” emblem in the US on the rear trunk, a fiberglass engine bonnet with “raised” vents fog lights, and an added interior center storage compartment located between the two seats which is often referred to as a CD box. The turbo also had larger exhaust pipes. (markdormangarage.wordpress.com)
(photos from mrtwee.nl, commons.wikimedia.org, favcars.com & autowp.ru)
