I’ve wanted a MK1 since the time I first saw one at 12yo, but I’m quite happy with my Spyder. And while synthwave is awesome, my recent work schedule had me driving home at 2 AM on nearly empty roads listening to In The Air Tonight by Phil Collins, reminiscent of a scene in Miami Vice where Crockett and Tubbs are in Sonny’s Ferrari Daytona Spyder with that song being played.
Of all the cars I've owned, my 1985 MR2 AW11 is my favourite. Mine was the NA 4A-GE configuration. Yes it was underpowered, yes it lacked low end torque, but it was the best handling, best balanced car I've ever driven with really pointy, well damped, compliant suspension that kept the rubber in contact with the road under almost all conditions. It was a car that responded well to being driven, so yes that does include changing gear at the right time, but I never saw that as a disadvantage; always happy to find the red line with constant torque giving way to constant power as you got to the top end. Loved that car.
“I don’t always love speed, I don’t always love power, but I love cars” Exactly my view and why I think Jays is one of the very best if not the best motoring channel on YT.
@@timeoy the Z31 Fairlady, that’s also known as the 300ZX right? Really spooky our car history. I had a 300ZX in the 90’s and an S2000 for a short while in the early 2000’s (great car but got written off 3 weeks from new by a truck!). I’ve currently got an MR2 MK2 which is an absolute hoot. Hope you get your Mk1. Great cars.
I always liked them. They're like a mini supercar. Never lusted after them but having missed the cheap deals boat I wish I'd boarded it when they were affordable.
I had the T bar blue1988 One. One of the best cars I owned . Young at the time had to sell due to increasing insurance costs part ex it for a landcruiser II which was cheaper to insure ? . Both excellent vehicles .
The MK1 MR2 was the perfect midship car for me as a student, it was tonnes of fun and deadly reliable for my daily commute. Nice nostalgic car that left some much fun memories along with my Honda CRX of the same era.
Agree with all your observations, and especially the "fun" factor. My experience with MR2's came on suddenly: Someone died in my small town, and a mutual friend told me he had three MR2's in his barns - one from each generation. I bought them all! I was most interested in the Mk 1, the most distinctive, the most "classic", and only 41,000 miles. Not supercharged. Had only to sort out the idle control valve, which was NLA, surprisingly. The Mk 2 Turbo was clearly the favorite of the previous owner, and was pretty beat up at 203,000 miles, so I sold it. The Mk 3 Spyder appealed to my wife's passion for small cars - they are truly tiny, only somewhat bigger than my Frogeye Sprite - so I still own that one. Timely video, too. Just yesterday, I took the Mk 1 out for a spin, visited the guy who bought the Mk 2, then got the Mk 3 out for my wife. The mutual friend is actually my wife's cousin, who ended up with the deceased "upgrades", a BMW Z4 and a new Toyota Supra.
have owned two Mr2 mk1 over 16 years. I sold the standard one for reasons similar to those highlighted by Jay. While the 4age engine is a peach, its lack of low to mid torque does affect real word situations like overtaking and progress on hills. The 4agze can easily be made to wake up with a higher boost pulley and better exhaust. Going further like I have done with an aftermarket engine management system is transformative. The Full Monty in terms of max output would a bigger throttle body and a better intercooler, water to air given the mid engine layout. Some people swap out the supercharger for a turbo, yet the great throttle response is one of the charms of the car, so I am not swapping out mine. Mine makes 160 hp at the wheels. With better throttle body and intercooler close to 200 would be possible. Throttle response is outstanding as is tractability when carefully tuned. Other mods such as rear strut brace and uprated sway bars take the suspension to another level when the shocks and springs have been upgraded. I find the car very communicative and plain fun and you don’t need to go 10 tenths to have smile. One other point not highlighted is the MR2 4agze has taller gearing than the 4ag this may seem unimportant but on long journeys the car is more relaxed as it isn’t revving as hard. You can also often overtake without the need to change down. One of the other things I did was to fit old school recaro seats, these also transformed longer drivers.
I have an '89 Supercharged MR2 and it's been said a million times that the rear strut tower brace does nothing but look cool. I have no clue but I have one and I'm putting it on the car shortly! LOL
It is the cumulative effect. A strut brace wont do a lot if the suspension isnt in good shape already. Another factor is the sway bar links. Even with stock sway bars new links made a difference.
@@pauljames8651 Hope you're right! It's been sitting in my garage for about 2 years. Might as well put it on and see if I see a difference. The rest of my suspension is sorted so we'll see,,,
@@phinds1 I noticed a night and day difference with the cusco brace on the front for my 88 SC compared to even the stock brace we got in the US. paired with my TRD springs and koni adjustable shocks it made this car into a real blast to drive.
I have noticed that too! I have a US market GZE car and ive taken trips well over 400 miles and the car loves to sit on the highway at reasonable engine RPMS as to be comfortable even compared to my friends 86 NA car which is a bit more buzzy on the highway like a miata.
Having owned all 3 generations, Mk1 is the best. When it came out in the UK in 1984/1985, it was utterly stunning and it's 80's styling has aged so well. Misunderstood and underappreciated Mk3 felt similar to Mk1; similar dimensions and both weigh under a ton. I did miss pop-up headlamps though. Mk2 was such a disappointment after coming from the Mk1; heavier, larger and more of a GT than the go-kart Mk1.
I agree, have owned 3 MK1s (inc current Supercharger and SC conversions) and have driven plenty of MK2s and a Mk3... the Mk3 is fun to drive but it looks a bit... off, the MK2 looks ok but it's not the same experience as the MK1 at all, even the turbo (as MR2 fun isn't just about all out speed)
I currently have a red 1988 MR2 in excellent condition and I have to say I smile every time I drive it. It’s a fantastic car, that brings back so many memories of how driving used to be - the waft of petrol you occasionally smell and it’s little roar is delightful. I love this car.
I wanted to get one of these but couldn't find a minter, then drove a good MK3 and it pissed all over the MK1 as a fun driving experience. I'm on to my second MK3 now and loving it
One of my favourite pocket rockets of the mid to late 80s alongside the 205 GTI, Citroen AX GT (please find one of those to review Jay) and the Strada 130 TC Abarth - ditto ! Great review of a great car.
You know for some time I was just like everyone else. I liked the second Gen a lot more than the first. It’s just such an iconic 90s shape and the design has aged very well. But over the years I’ve come to like the AW11 even more. I’ve always liked the MR2s and thought they were cool but I never thought I’d be the type to actually buy one. Recently got the chance to buy an ex street legal SCCA spec 86 non supercharged model and it’s probably the rawest, most pure driving experience I’ve ever had in a car and I just had to have it. It’s noisy, it’s not all that practical, it’s bumpy, but I absolutely love the car. It’s one that I may even keep forever. Great video, absolutely love that these cars are getting more spotlight now!
I had the standard MK 1 when I was 21, 30 years ago. I loved it, great fun, great quirky interior and as a 21 year old felt like a superstar! I would recommend them to anyone! It was also very reliable and not expensive to run either. Great vid Jay! I also had the MK 3 about 15 years ago and would love to see Jay do a video on that, again another excellent MR2!
these are amazing rides. i owned an 85 back in college 1994. My dad loved mine so much he bought 2 of them. Its the greatest car doug demuro will never review.
I owned a Mk1b non SC MR2. I found performance ample & still miss it. As a motorcycle rider I more than ever appreciate the road positioning advantage of smaller sized driver focused cars. Yet to sample the SC. Thanks for sharing.
I drove one of these when they were first available and it was a total delight in every way. Probably the nicest car I’ve ever driven. I adored it. I’m not really one for classic cars, but I could make an exception for this. I’m tempted!
FINALLY!!! You've reviewed MY car! I live in Canada and have a white '89 Supercharged version with the rare maroon interior.This is my 4th MR2 and this is my 2nd Supercharged version. The last one was destroyed by a drunk driver(who almost destroyed me as well). The car is fantastic and I will never sell mine! Mine is "tastefully modified" with a pulley on the supercharger which increases boost from 8psi to 14psi. I also have an HKS exhaust and intake. Horsepower is now 180. She moves! I also have Tokico 5 way adjustable shocks with Eibach lowering Springs. You mentioned one of the weakness of the car and that's the transmission. I've had mine rebuilt in '09 and now the 2nd gear syncro is going. The last time it was 5th gear. That being said if anyone in Canada is selling an E153 manual tranny in good condition let me know. Thanks JayEmm for the review! Been waiting a while to see if you'd do one!!
I had a standard mk 1 back in the days. Fitted 15" wheels with best Bridgestones available. Grip and direction change was off the chart. Never had so much fun in a car as with that one. Drove it 140.000kms without issues, but but these days I would be locked up for driving that way.
Had one in the same color but without the supercharger. Bought it in left hand drive (ex. US) and drove it from London to Athens on our honeymoon. We got a specially made roof rack for it and had a single case on top. Caused quite a stir in Italy as no one knew what it was. One spin on a suddenly tightening corner on a greasy road on a later trip, full 360. When it goes, it goes IME. Otherwise faultless, unlike my previous X1/9 that simply rotted away.
it actually made me cry to hear how much you love my dream car. i just got one as a project about 2 weeks ago now. even without it running, it felt awesome sitting in it, and i love the 80s boxy look. i cant wait till i have it together and can go on the road. its my first car too, so its even better for me
I've been a aw11 (mk1) owner and enthusiast for 26 years now. I still have the 1st one I bought (april 1995), and one other i bought in 2006, it's my track car. I did have 5 3/4 mk1's at one time, but due to bad health had to sell. I have to the 2 aw11's (mk1) and 1 zzw30 spyder now. I love the 4ag engine!!!
I remember driving one of these for a few days when they were new. Still one of the most enjoyable driving experiences I have ever had. Thank you for taking me down memory lane, James
My neighbor's girlfriend had one of these in the early 2000s that he let me drive when I was like 14 or 15... I will never forget how fun that car was and It actually is what got me interested in Japanese cars !!
When Toyota wants to make a great car, they make a GREAT car. I've never had the pleasure or driving one of these but I know I'd love it. Driving connectedness and simplicity. we're running thin on those aspects nowadays. Great review.
I have absolutely loved my 1988 supercharged mk1 here in the United States, the extra torque and power just wakens up the car and makes it a bit more interesting! Low mileage ones here in the states are commanding 25K+ and one even sold for the upper 30K's recently. the production run in the US was less than 2200 or so in 88-89 only. Not sure about the Japanese Market production number but definitely a rare bird. Easily one of my favorite toyota models its just so unique.
I had a 1986 MK1, a friend of mine had a Miata of the same generation. The MR2 was so much better in all regards, except if you were specifically looking for a car that looked like an English roadster, I never understood why the Miata oversold the MR2.
I had both an 89 MKI Supercharged and a 91 MKII Turbo. Both were great cars, but man, that MKI was SO much fun to drive. Just a torquey little rollerskate!
Fun car, however some the prices you said are way too high. Thank you for showcasing these more rarer and spicy editions. Nice video. Keep up the good work.
I remember as a young boy seeing one at the Gmex motor show and was blown away by the looks. I’ve no desire to own one but do like them on the rare occasion I see one now
The 4A-GZE is the best block to make power. Many years back now, I used a AE101 Levin 4A-GZE as the base for my AE86. With a T3/T4 turbo running 1 bar, controlled by an ancient Link ecu, it ran a personal best of 11.8 seconds on the 1/4mile. It wasn't possible to hit full boost in 1st, catching second would give butterflies to the stomach that I have yet to experience in anything else! There's a reason these old Toyotas are so loved.
The Mk1 is the only version I have yet to own. I currently have a Rev5 UK Mk2 with a 3S-GTE producing 305fwbhp which I've owned for 15 years,, a Rev3 JDM turbo and a stock pre-facelift Mk3. All so much fun.
I owned a 1985 white MR2 through high school up until 1993. I loved that car. So much fun to drive and super reliable. I now own a 2019 Genesis G70 3.3T and am enjoying it just as much as the MR2. I'm looking forward to the new MR2 that is supposedly in the works for a 2025/26 release.
I’ve since graduated to a 911 C2S and more recently an Alfa 4C, but throughout my teens and 20’s I owned six of these MK1’s, my favorites of which was a tossup between the supercharged version, and a 1987 hardtop that I swapped a 1997 4A-GE 20V “blacktop” engine into (165hp, 121lb/ft). Unlike in the 2000’s, you can’t get drivable ones for under $1500 anymore, and it’s no surprise why!
There right side rear vent is to push out hot air from the engine bay via a small fan in the rear scoop behind the door. The AW11 was a childhood dream car finally realized in 2018.
I bought an MK2 back in 2004 and still have it, I do need to put some money in it for repair but I can't sold it, it is so much fun to drive, in 25 years I bet those car will worth a lot...
Jay, I always get such a kick watching another petrol head enjoying just how fun it can be to really throw a lesser-powered car closer to it's limit, than soft-shoeing it around in something with way more power and speed than anyone other than aliens like the esteemed Messrs. Button and Hamilton can truly handle. Despite being a rather burly 6' 4" and 225, I've always LOVED smaller, quirky cars like this one! I drove a Geo Tracker 4x4 (that's a Suzuki Vitaro for you across the pond, I believe) 2-door hardtop for years, which was way more fun that it really had any right to be, and I've been looking for the right one to buy recently. Way back at the beginning of the 90's when I was a mere sapling, I kinda impulsively bought a Kawasaki ZX-7R Ninja, which after some mods put out 140hp at the rear wheel; I was almost scared to ride it most of the time, but did anyway cos the girls loved it! But my good friend Stu (R.I.P. my friend, who, incidentally, was the guitarist and founding member of Machines of Loving Grace, with some fame in the 80's, also on 'The Crow' soundtrack) had the same Senor Dos here in Tucson AZ as you're driving in this excellent video, but wasn't a real fan (he'd been given it by his mum when she got a nicer car), but he loved my Ninja; so, usually a couple days a week, we'd swap vehicles for the day, and man I loved those days! I've also been looking for a Mk III MR2 Spyder, which is actually my favorite of the three, especially since it has the world's easiest to use manual convertible top, but has an available hard top for the couple weeks a year it actually rains or gets chilly here..! I owned one for a few years right after High School, and like my ol' Geo, I foolishly sold it to get a truck (Tucson, it's basically a requirement to drive one), and I've regretted it ever since, which is why now, a little later in life when it's something I can sort of do on a whim, I'm looking to replace both of them in my driveway! Great video as always, and I'm glad to see you so enjoying the quirky little Midship Runabout! And, sorry to all for the ridiculously long comment, it's late morning here and I've just been hanging out watching youtube vids and drinking WAAAY too much coffee!
My son and I found one in excellent shape in the mid 90's in Toronto. It was a dark metallic blue and more importantly, an '89SC. We slalomed and tracked it for many years. Our opinion on mk1's is the best are the '85 for its lotus influence which became diluted over the years until the '89 whereby the steering arrangement was returned to that of the '85 as was the rear sway bar. So best to get if you can, is the '85NA or the '89SC. In 2009, we got a '06 Lotus Elise for the same driving. Was a very smooth transition as the Elise felt like a very improved Mk1. We still have both to enjoy with the grandsons being introduced to both cars.
Always wanted to drive one of these Mk 2 Supercharged, got a MK 2 Beams myself and often thought about supercharging it but it's such a joy I don't wanna risk it.
Great car and review! I had a G reg Mk1 with a sunroof back in 2003 and even though it looked a little dated even back then I loved how it made me smile. I was always letting people out at junctions etc just to pop the headlights lol! I replaced that with a Fiesta RS Turbo and then replaced that with a top spec revision 1 mk2 GT Turbo. That was a very quick car considering it was from 1989 and came with tons of cool kit, like a multi speaker setup as standard with a sub behind passenger seat, steering foglights, folding mirrors, climate, real thick carpets and snazzy half leather/alcantara seats. The raised grills on the engine cover were one of the few differences over the n/a models (just like the mk1 SC over the n/s here). The mk2 revision 2 and 3 models improved the suspension, added bigger wheels and upped power and the rev 3 added the round rear lights. The rear spoilers changed a few times over the years too. Great car.
I have enormously fond memories of this car....back in the late '80s/very early '90s I traded down from a brand new Porcshe 924 Clubsport to a brand new Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 and then to a 5 year-old MR2. In Central London and on weekend trips on British B-roads it wasn't a trade down at all in terms of driving engagement and in red, with the side intakes and the pop-up headlights people occasionally mistook it for a Ferrari 348 but that I could street-park it without anyone key-scratching it.
This was the car that taught me, at 18 years of age, that for me the driving experience was far more important than how a car looked. My red '87 NA (with T-tops!) got me through college and my first jobs. I later had the engine swapped for a Supercharged one, and the added torque was such a joy around town. I didn't know how good I had it. When I started buying other cars I learned that not all cars had zero blind spots, nor such ease of squirting into traffic (think good low end torque and the ability to put it all to the ground whilst turning out of a driveway). I ended up selling it after having a MK2 NA for a while, and got a MK2 Turbo instead which I still have and love. That one will never be sold. And now there is a MK3 project in the garage, too. Perhaps someday if time, space, and funds allow, a MK1 SC could return to the stable. After all, a fleet with no T-tops just isn't complete!
This is the second time you have uploaded a wanted project car of mine just HOURS after I searched for it... Always a good watch with my morning coffee, well done sir!
Wow, there's a blast. I owned so many of these including the JDM only SuperEdition version. Cracking little car with sublime 1980s styling. Thanks for sharing!
I traded my 88SC for a mk2 turbo back in 91. Two years ago a new owner tracked me down and let me take it for a spin. Talk about a drive down memory lane. We're both in the U.S. but we appear in the October 2020 issue of the British car magazine "MR2 ONLY MAGAZINE". Yes, it's red too. Heart pangs still felt. Thanks for highlighting this gem.
Drove loads of them back in the day as we used to fit alarms and stereos in them, great little cars and I can see how a supercharger would make lots of sense.
My neighbour worked for Toyota in Ulster back in the day. He had the first MR2 in NI (a red hardtop) sat in his front garden as the dealership wanted to 'hide' it somewhere before the launch. The MK1 was quite angular, which made it easier for his kids to climb up onto the roof and slide down its windscreen. Probably didn't help the resell value much. I have two currently. An '88 Mk1b road car and a '84 Mk1a tarmac rally car.
I went from a 1992 Celica Carlos Sainz to a 1990 MR2 in my 20s and much preferred the MR2. Those two cars taught me a lot about my preferences in cars. 🙂
Peugeot 205 T16 is literally my dream car! We bought a new GRD in 1985 and group B was as glamorous as F1. I’ve had a gti but an NSX and a T16 would be my lottery cars.
I love these cars. I have had 5 including 2 supercharged ones here in Oz. The supercharged versions can benefit from a oversized drive pulley which with a high volume intercooler fan easily pushes boost to 13lb and around 165-170hp. You can also use a later SW20 exhaust box with quad tips to improve breathing and dramatically improve the sound to a growl under boost. I had 17" wheels and upgraded shocks along with a body kit that integrated the front and rear bumpers into a smooth aero shape like the 944 turbo did for 944s.. Made for a brilliant track and road car. A real pocket rocket and with the bigger pulley the supercharger really screamed!
While a university student in the late '80s, my family and I visited my aunt during the holidays, and she had a red MK 1 MR2 in her garage. I asked jokingly, "Hey Aunt Rose, can I drive your MR2?" Much to my surprise, she replied with "Keys are on the hook." As my father looked on in horror, I pulled the MR2 out of the garage for a quick spin around the block. I returned the car to the garage with a massive smile on my face. Awesome car and even more awesome Aunt!
I had an e reg one that looked judt like this. I absolutely loved it but for some reason Traded it I'm for a celica which was no where near as good. This car taught me everything about handling I'd have another one tomorrow.
I had a 205 GTI 1.6, and went for the Mk1 MR2 straight after. And considering the hero status the 205 GTI has (well deserved for sure), the MR2 didn’t disappoint me in the slightest. A lovely revvy twin cam engine, great gear change and driving position was spot on! I didn’t understand the need for good tyres back then, but a nice set of tyres would have made it a great handling car. But as an 18/19 year old car enthusiast at that time it was all about the stereo. Alpine flip out touchscreen head unit which used to fold out and fill the square centre console perfectly…….apart from I couldn’t change the heater controls without folding the screen down……which I couldn’t do if I was in first, third, or fifth because the screen would hit the gearstick 😂 The little speakers in the B pillars were changed out for some basic Alpines, and a kenwood sub was under the passenger seat! And because of the little cabin, it was bloody awesome 👌🏻👌🏻
Great review. You really portrayed exactly why these cars are so good to drive and own. An ex girlfriend of mine had a late mk1 which was brilliant fun on roads just like those. I myself have owned a mk2 Na and a Turbo. I miss them both and would buy another in a heartbeat if I could. Once you’ve been bitten by the MR2 bug, you can’t shake it.
Ah, the legendary 4AGZE. I transplanted one into my 1990 Corolla GTi-16. I didn't stop there either, added a larger crank pulley to spin the SC faster and a HKS Twincharger kit which added a hybrid T04E/T03 turbo.
My dad has one of these and I had an SW20. I loved them and wish they still made them. I have an FR-S and it's pretty close, but it's not quite the same.
2:10 another reason for the supercharger apart from power - works better at altitude. Bear in mind the highest mountain in the UK is ben nevis, about 4 thousand feet. I went on a sunday drive recently out in the states and within an hour I passed a 9 thousand foot marker, and performance and fuel economy dropped off markedly. Supercharger means it will keep on pulling at altitude.
My mate had one (non s charged) back in the day and ended up putting the two long, lead weights from a sash window in the froot to keep the front wheels on the road! ;)
Had a white T Bar 1986 to 1990. Loved it except that the flat engine cover was a great temptation to people who wanted to put plant pots, dustbins etc on it when the car was parked.
There is just something special about these MR2s. I went looking for one about a year ago, trying to find a decent example of an AW11. I couldn't find one locally but stumbled across a local SW20 Turbo in decent shape. Despite owning and driving many of the greatest Toyotas of the era I had never driven an MR2 up to that point. Five minutes later and I absolutely had to have it. Probably the funnest car I've ever owned, and I've got an ST165 Celica GT-Four and an AE86 that shares space with it. I don't particularly care about the rising values and how much of a collectors item it's going to be; it's just simply such an engaging car. If you get the chance to get one or to even drive one, regardless of generation, do yourself a favor and give it a go.
Hi. Brought back memories of the early eighties, but there was at least one officially sold Supercharged Mk.1 MR2 in the country as I missed it in the dealer by half an hour. It was sold by a Toyota dealer in Sidcup who told me that they had two of the five cars of different specs that were imported from Japan to decide on the spec for the UK (...and they were official, carrying the normal full Toyota warranty, as well as an extended warranty). I ended up buying the other which was, I presume, the luxury spec that wasn't sold in the UK. Mine had factory fitted cruise control, the green over champagne paint scheme, uprated speakers and audio, different storage bins from the normal ones sold in the UK plus a full size alloy spare (which I was told wasn't normal). It was eventually replaced by a BMW 325i M Sport, but kept in the family by my wife who only replaced it when she took over a TVR from me some years later. The MR2 is one of the only cars I've ever regretted getting rid of, but although it was mechanically perfect with over 40K on the clock, it was rotten as a pear when we did trade it in.
I converted my MKI to a 20V Silvertop Levin motor (faster than the SC version). Loved it. I also made a roadster MKI. Deadly scary in the winter or wet though. Its handling was scary enough that I never circuit raced it, but built a 85' AE86 instead, and it was faster than any MR2 I came up against in class, even though the MR2 was superior on paper.
The MK1 was probably more of a driver’s car than the MK2. We had the latter and nice as it was the 2 litre engine didn’t really want to rev and sounded coarse when pushed. You should have gone there with the Doug stuff and said ‘quirks … and features’ that would have been hilarious Jay😂
I'm owing the 88' Supercharged now (and many years ago) and this is a very fun car to drive with. Not a crazily fast car but it will give you an enjoyable real driving experience with your hands and feet instead of using lots of techs and computer's help. The design of both interior and exterior is unique when comparing with nowadays canned car desgin philosophy. It still looks great after 34 years now.
I had an MK1 mr2 recently. Cruising through the city at night, pop up headlights, and listening to synthwave. One of the best driving experiences.
I own a white mk1. nothing is better than driving in into the sunset while listening to timpecop1983, lazerhawk etc. on a warm summer day
Hell yes guys. Hell yes. I had an 88 in white and the look of the paint at dusk and view of the pop ups at night was amazing. Loved the fishbowl feel.
God I need to get my MR2 running again.
@@fishingnuke9331 did you get it running?
I’ve wanted a MK1 since the time I first saw one at 12yo, but I’m quite happy with my Spyder. And while synthwave is awesome, my recent work schedule had me driving home at 2 AM on nearly empty roads listening to In The Air Tonight by Phil Collins, reminiscent of a scene in Miami Vice where Crockett and Tubbs are in Sonny’s Ferrari Daytona Spyder with that song being played.
Of all the cars I've owned, my 1985 MR2 AW11 is my favourite. Mine was the NA 4A-GE configuration. Yes it was underpowered, yes it lacked low end torque, but it was the best handling, best balanced car I've ever driven with really pointy, well damped, compliant suspension that kept the rubber in contact with the road under almost all conditions. It was a car that responded well to being driven, so yes that does include changing gear at the right time, but I never saw that as a disadvantage; always happy to find the red line with constant torque giving way to constant power as you got to the top end. Loved that car.
“I don’t always love speed, I don’t always love power, but I love cars”
Exactly my view and why I think Jays is one of the very best if not the best motoring channel on YT.
Thankyou - it's true!
That's me too~ I have a S2000 and a Z31 Fairlady. I hope to get a MK2 Mk1 next year~
@@timeoy the Z31 Fairlady, that’s also known as the 300ZX right?
Really spooky our car history. I had a 300ZX in the 90’s and an S2000 for a short while in the early 2000’s (great car but got written off 3 weeks from new by a truck!). I’ve currently got an MR2 MK2 which is an absolute hoot. Hope you get your Mk1. Great cars.
I was never a fan of the looks of these but the older they get the more I like them 😅
Same sentiments here strange how that occurs not just with cars either.
Same here. I’ve had a Mk2 MR2 for a few years and would never sell it but If I did, a Mk1 in white might be a nice replacement.
They older they get or the older YOU get 😁 but I know what you mean!
I always liked them. They're like a mini supercar. Never lusted after them but having missed the cheap deals boat I wish I'd boarded it when they were affordable.
I had the T bar blue1988 One. One of the best cars I owned . Young at the time had to sell due to increasing insurance costs part ex it for a landcruiser II which was cheaper to insure ? . Both excellent vehicles .
hands down mk1’s the most fun car i’ve ever owned. i regret selling it, i shouldve rebuilt the engine and kept going
The MK1 MR2 was the perfect midship car for me as a student, it was tonnes of fun and deadly reliable for my daily commute. Nice nostalgic car that left some much fun memories along with my Honda CRX of the same era.
Two cars that I rank as some of the most fun of all time.... very lucky you were able to drive them around as a young'un.
I was a student in a CRX. I peaked to soon!
@@smcha4 i agree 200%! how about a Prelude-Si =)?
@@johnyaskoveakarpaccio4737 I had the 2.2 Vtec 😍
In my early 20s I had a MR2 and then a CRX as well. I miss light affordable cars.
The 1st Gen MR2 Supercharged is spectacular! Thank you for reviewing a car that was a key part of my teenage years.
Agree with all your observations, and especially the "fun" factor. My experience with MR2's came on suddenly: Someone died in my small town, and a mutual friend told me he had three MR2's in his barns - one from each generation. I bought them all! I was most interested in the Mk 1, the most distinctive, the most "classic", and only 41,000 miles. Not supercharged. Had only to sort out the idle control valve, which was NLA, surprisingly. The Mk 2 Turbo was clearly the favorite of the previous owner, and was pretty beat up at 203,000 miles, so I sold it. The Mk 3 Spyder appealed to my wife's passion for small cars - they are truly tiny, only somewhat bigger than my Frogeye Sprite - so I still own that one.
Timely video, too. Just yesterday, I took the Mk 1 out for a spin, visited the guy who bought the Mk 2, then got the Mk 3 out for my wife. The mutual friend is actually my wife's cousin, who ended up with the deceased "upgrades", a BMW Z4 and a new Toyota Supra.
have owned two Mr2 mk1 over 16 years. I sold the standard one for reasons similar to those highlighted by Jay. While the 4age engine is a peach, its lack of low to mid torque does affect real word situations like overtaking and progress on hills. The 4agze can easily be made to wake up with a higher boost pulley and better exhaust. Going further like I have done with an aftermarket engine management system is transformative. The Full Monty in terms of max output would a bigger throttle body and a better intercooler, water to air given the mid engine layout. Some people swap out the supercharger for a turbo, yet the great throttle response is one of the charms of the car, so I am not swapping out mine. Mine makes 160 hp at the wheels. With better throttle body and intercooler close to 200 would be possible.
Throttle response is outstanding as is tractability when carefully tuned. Other mods such as rear strut brace and uprated sway bars take the suspension to another level when the shocks and springs have been upgraded. I find the car very communicative and plain fun and you don’t need to go 10 tenths to have smile. One other point not highlighted is the MR2 4agze has taller gearing than the 4ag this may seem unimportant but on long journeys the car is more relaxed as it isn’t revving as hard. You can also often overtake without the need to change down. One of the other things I did was to fit old school recaro seats, these also transformed longer drivers.
I have an '89 Supercharged MR2 and it's been said a million times that the rear strut tower brace does nothing but look cool. I have no clue but I have one and I'm putting it on the car shortly! LOL
It is the cumulative effect. A strut brace wont do a lot if the suspension isnt in good shape already. Another factor is the sway bar links. Even with stock sway bars new links made a difference.
@@pauljames8651 Hope you're right! It's been sitting in my garage for about 2 years. Might as well put it on and see if I see a difference. The rest of my suspension is sorted so we'll see,,,
@@phinds1 I noticed a night and day difference with the cusco brace on the front for my 88 SC compared to even the stock brace we got in the US. paired with my TRD springs and koni adjustable shocks it made this car into a real blast to drive.
I have noticed that too! I have a US market GZE car and ive taken trips well over 400 miles and the car loves to sit on the highway at reasonable engine RPMS as to be comfortable even compared to my friends 86 NA car which is a bit more buzzy on the highway like a miata.
Having owned all 3 generations, Mk1 is the best. When it came out in the UK in 1984/1985, it was utterly stunning and it's 80's styling has aged so well. Misunderstood and underappreciated Mk3 felt similar to Mk1; similar dimensions and both weigh under a ton. I did miss pop-up headlamps though. Mk2 was such a disappointment after coming from the Mk1; heavier, larger and more of a GT than the go-kart Mk1.
I agree, have owned 3 MK1s (inc current Supercharger and SC conversions) and have driven plenty of MK2s and a Mk3... the Mk3 is fun to drive but it looks a bit... off, the MK2 looks ok but it's not the same experience as the MK1 at all, even the turbo (as MR2 fun isn't just about all out speed)
I doubt you’d be disappointed by my MKII Turbo. It can do everything the MKI can but a hell of a lot faster.
@@negativeindustrial I recall being outbraked by mk1s when doing track days in my Turbo. One of the reasons I got a mk1 SC.
I currently have a red 1988 MR2 in excellent condition and I have to say I smile every time I drive it. It’s a fantastic car, that brings back so many memories of how driving used to be - the waft of petrol you occasionally smell and it’s little roar is delightful. I love this car.
I wanted to get one of these but couldn't find a minter, then drove a good MK3 and it pissed all over the MK1 as a fun driving experience. I'm on to my second MK3 now and loving it
One of my favourite pocket rockets of the mid to late 80s alongside the 205 GTI, Citroen AX GT (please find one of those to review Jay) and the Strada 130 TC Abarth - ditto ! Great review of a great car.
3 of my favourite 80s cars too.
Owned an AX GT for about 5 years back in the early 90s I always wanted a 205 just never seemed to get round to it
Loved my AX GT, proper go kart!
You know for some time I was just like everyone else. I liked the second Gen a lot more than the first. It’s just such an iconic 90s shape and the design has aged very well. But over the years I’ve come to like the AW11 even more. I’ve always liked the MR2s and thought they were cool but I never thought I’d be the type to actually buy one. Recently got the chance to buy an ex street legal SCCA spec 86 non supercharged model and it’s probably the rawest, most pure driving experience I’ve ever had in a car and I just had to have it. It’s noisy, it’s not all that practical, it’s bumpy, but I absolutely love the car. It’s one that I may even keep forever. Great video, absolutely love that these cars are getting more spotlight now!
That opening statement is why James and Brian from RCR are real car guys and Douche Demuro is a poseur.
I had the standard MK 1 when I was 21, 30 years ago. I loved it, great fun, great quirky interior and as a 21 year old felt like a superstar! I would recommend them to anyone! It was also very reliable and not expensive to run either. Great vid Jay! I also had the MK 3 about 15 years ago and would love to see Jay do a video on that, again another excellent MR2!
I had a MK2 for a while in the 90s but actually think the MK1 has aged much better than expected. Great to see you enjoying it
these are amazing rides. i owned an 85 back in college 1994. My dad loved mine so much he bought 2 of them. Its the greatest car doug demuro will never review.
I owned a Mk1b non SC MR2. I found performance ample & still miss it. As a motorcycle rider I more than ever appreciate the road positioning advantage of smaller sized driver focused cars. Yet to sample the SC. Thanks for sharing.
My pleasure
I drove one of these when they were first available and it was a total delight in every way. Probably the nicest car I’ve ever driven. I adored it. I’m not really one for classic cars, but I could make an exception for this. I’m tempted!
It is a joy
Had my MK1 for 6yrs absolutely loved it, have had 4 MK2s since, and still have one. The MK1 is still my favourite of them all. Thanks for the video
FINALLY!!! You've reviewed MY car! I live in Canada and have a white '89 Supercharged version with the rare maroon interior.This is my 4th MR2 and this is my 2nd Supercharged version. The last one was destroyed by a drunk driver(who almost destroyed me as well). The car is fantastic and I will never sell mine! Mine is "tastefully modified" with a pulley on the supercharger which increases boost from 8psi to 14psi. I also have an HKS exhaust and intake. Horsepower is now 180. She moves! I also have Tokico 5 way adjustable shocks with Eibach lowering Springs. You mentioned one of the weakness of the car and that's the transmission. I've had mine rebuilt in '09 and now the 2nd gear syncro is going. The last time it was 5th gear. That being said if anyone in Canada is selling an E153 manual tranny in good condition let me know. Thanks JayEmm for the review! Been waiting a while to see if you'd do one!!
Thanks, so glad I could review it!
There were some really great cars in that era. This is one aand, of course the Honda CRX was also pretty damn cool. Good one James.
Test drove a CRX and loved it. I know a few racing drivers who owned them.
go and get yourself one again....they look so great.....again!!!
One of the nicest handling cars I've ever driven. Great fun. Got to be a T-bar in red.
I had a standard mk 1 back in the days. Fitted 15" wheels with best Bridgestones available. Grip and direction change was off the chart. Never had so much fun in a car as with that one. Drove it 140.000kms without issues, but but these days I would be locked up for driving that way.
This one was the prettiest tbh, love it, classic late 80’s perfect.
One of the best Alpine headunits ever made installed, great!
Had one in the same color but without the supercharger. Bought it in left hand drive (ex. US) and drove it from London to Athens on our honeymoon. We got a specially made roof rack for it and had a single case on top. Caused quite a stir in Italy as no one knew what it was. One spin on a suddenly tightening corner on a greasy road on a later trip, full 360. When it goes, it goes IME. Otherwise faultless, unlike my previous X1/9 that simply rotted away.
I have owned 4 mr2's i had an 89sc at the same time as a r35 gtr.. the mr2 was soo much more fun to just go drive. I miss that car.
it actually made me cry to hear how much you love my dream car. i just got one as a project about 2 weeks ago now. even without it running, it felt awesome sitting in it, and i love the 80s boxy look. i cant wait till i have it together and can go on the road. its my first car too, so its even better for me
I've been a aw11 (mk1) owner and enthusiast for 26 years now. I still have the 1st one I bought (april 1995), and one other i bought in 2006, it's my track car. I did have 5 3/4 mk1's at one time, but due to bad health had to sell. I have to the 2 aw11's (mk1) and 1 zzw30 spyder now. I love the 4ag engine!!!
I had one back in the 90's while based in Japan. It drives like a dream.
I remember driving one of these for a few days when they were new. Still one of the most enjoyable driving experiences I have ever had. Thank you for taking me down memory lane, James
My neighbor's girlfriend had one of these in the early 2000s that he let me drive when I was like 14 or 15... I will never forget how fun that car was and It actually is what got me interested in Japanese cars !!
I had the second generation MR2 and loved it... wish I kept it really. Had many adventures in that car.😊
When Toyota wants to make a great car, they make a GREAT car. I've never had the pleasure or driving one of these but I know I'd love it. Driving connectedness and simplicity. we're running thin on those aspects nowadays. Great review.
I have absolutely loved my 1988 supercharged mk1 here in the United States, the extra torque and power just wakens up the car and makes it a bit more interesting! Low mileage ones here in the states are commanding 25K+ and one even sold for the upper 30K's recently. the production run in the US was less than 2200 or so in 88-89 only. Not sure about the Japanese Market production number but definitely a rare bird. Easily one of my favorite toyota models its just so unique.
I had a 89 Mk1 MR2, absolutely brilliant to drive. Most fun I've had in any car period.
I had a 1986 MK1, a friend of mine had a Miata of the same generation. The MR2 was so much better in all regards, except if you were specifically looking for a car that looked like an English roadster, I never understood why the Miata oversold the MR2.
I had both an 89 MKI Supercharged and a 91 MKII Turbo. Both were great cars, but man, that MKI was SO much fun to drive. Just a torquey little rollerskate!
Fun car, however some the prices you said are way too high. Thank you for showcasing these more rarer and spicy editions. Nice video. Keep up the good work.
I remember as a young boy seeing one at the Gmex motor show and was blown away by the looks. I’ve no desire to own one but do like them on the rare occasion I see one now
The 4A-GZE is the best block to make power. Many years back now, I used a AE101 Levin 4A-GZE as the base for my AE86. With a T3/T4 turbo running 1 bar, controlled by an ancient Link ecu, it ran a personal best of 11.8 seconds on the 1/4mile. It wasn't possible to hit full boost in 1st, catching second would give butterflies to the stomach that I have yet to experience in anything else! There's a reason these old Toyotas are so loved.
JayEmm is the most underrated car UA-camr rn
The MRS was alot of fun.I owed one with a Lotus Elise exhaust.It sounded great and made me smile alot.
The Mk1 is the only version I have yet to own. I currently have a Rev5 UK Mk2 with a 3S-GTE producing 305fwbhp which I've owned for 15 years,, a Rev3 JDM turbo and a stock pre-facelift Mk3. All so much fun.
I owned a 1985 white MR2 through high school up until 1993. I loved that car. So much fun to drive and super reliable. I now own a 2019 Genesis G70 3.3T and am enjoying it just as much as the MR2. I'm looking forward to the new MR2 that is supposedly in the works for a 2025/26 release.
Never got to drive one of these sadly but the N/A was fun in its day. I had the later MR2 GTS Turbo. I do love the retro boxy Mk1 looks though.
I’ve since graduated to a 911 C2S and more recently an Alfa 4C, but throughout my teens and 20’s I owned six of these MK1’s, my favorites of which was a tossup between the supercharged version, and a 1987 hardtop that I swapped a 1997 4A-GE 20V “blacktop” engine into (165hp, 121lb/ft). Unlike in the 2000’s, you can’t get drivable ones for under $1500 anymore, and it’s no surprise why!
There right side rear vent is to push out hot air from the engine bay via a small fan in the rear scoop behind the door. The AW11 was a childhood dream car finally realized in 2018.
I bought an MK2 back in 2004 and still have it, I do need to put some money in it for repair but I can't sold it, it is so much fun to drive, in 25 years I bet those car will worth a lot...
Jay, I always get such a kick watching another petrol head enjoying just how fun it can be to really throw a lesser-powered car closer to it's limit, than soft-shoeing it around in something with way more power and speed than anyone other than aliens like the esteemed Messrs. Button and Hamilton can truly handle. Despite being a rather burly 6' 4" and 225, I've always LOVED smaller, quirky cars like this one! I drove a Geo Tracker 4x4 (that's a Suzuki Vitaro for you across the pond, I believe) 2-door hardtop for years, which was way more fun that it really had any right to be, and I've been looking for the right one to buy recently. Way back at the beginning of the 90's when I was a mere sapling, I kinda impulsively bought a Kawasaki ZX-7R Ninja, which after some mods put out 140hp at the rear wheel; I was almost scared to ride it most of the time, but did anyway cos the girls loved it! But my good friend Stu (R.I.P. my friend, who, incidentally, was the guitarist and founding member of Machines of Loving Grace, with some fame in the 80's, also on 'The Crow' soundtrack) had the same Senor Dos here in Tucson AZ as you're driving in this excellent video, but wasn't a real fan (he'd been given it by his mum when she got a nicer car), but he loved my Ninja; so, usually a couple days a week, we'd swap vehicles for the day, and man I loved those days! I've also been looking for a Mk III MR2 Spyder, which is actually my favorite of the three, especially since it has the world's easiest to use manual convertible top, but has an available hard top for the couple weeks a year it actually rains or gets chilly here..! I owned one for a few years right after High School, and like my ol' Geo, I foolishly sold it to get a truck (Tucson, it's basically a requirement to drive one), and I've regretted it ever since, which is why now, a little later in life when it's something I can sort of do on a whim, I'm looking to replace both of them in my driveway! Great video as always, and I'm glad to see you so enjoying the quirky little Midship Runabout! And, sorry to all for the ridiculously long comment, it's late morning here and I've just been hanging out watching youtube vids and drinking WAAAY too much coffee!
My son and I found one in excellent shape in the mid 90's in Toronto. It was a dark metallic blue and more importantly, an '89SC. We slalomed and tracked it for many years. Our opinion on mk1's is the best are the '85 for its lotus influence which became diluted over the years until the '89 whereby the steering arrangement was returned to that of the '85 as was the rear sway bar. So best to get if you can, is the '85NA or the '89SC. In 2009, we got a '06 Lotus Elise for the same driving. Was a very smooth transition as the Elise felt like a very improved Mk1. We still have both to enjoy with the grandsons being introduced to both cars.
Yes, I always was/still am a fan of the mk2, didn't like the origional at the time, but have an appreciation for it now.
Always wanted to drive one of these Mk 2 Supercharged, got a MK 2 Beams myself and often thought about supercharging it but it's such a joy I don't wanna risk it.
Great car and review! I had a G reg Mk1 with a sunroof back in 2003 and even though it looked a little dated even back then I loved how it made me smile. I was always letting people out at junctions etc just to pop the headlights lol! I replaced that with a Fiesta RS Turbo and then replaced that with a top spec revision 1 mk2 GT Turbo. That was a very quick car considering it was from 1989 and came with tons of cool kit, like a multi speaker setup as standard with a sub behind passenger seat, steering foglights, folding mirrors, climate, real thick carpets and snazzy half leather/alcantara seats. The raised grills on the engine cover were one of the few differences over the n/a models (just like the mk1 SC over the n/s here). The mk2 revision 2 and 3 models improved the suspension, added bigger wheels and upped power and the rev 3 added the round rear lights. The rear spoilers changed a few times over the years too. Great car.
I have enormously fond memories of this car....back in the late '80s/very early '90s I traded down from a brand new Porcshe 924 Clubsport to a brand new Peugeot 205 GTI 1.9 and then to a 5 year-old MR2. In Central London and on weekend trips on British B-roads it wasn't a trade down at all in terms of driving engagement and in red, with the side intakes and the pop-up headlights people occasionally mistook it for a Ferrari 348 but that I could street-park it without anyone key-scratching it.
This was the car that taught me, at 18 years of age, that for me the driving experience was far more important than how a car looked. My red '87 NA (with T-tops!) got me through college and my first jobs. I later had the engine swapped for a Supercharged one, and the added torque was such a joy around town. I didn't know how good I had it. When I started buying other cars I learned that not all cars had zero blind spots, nor such ease of squirting into traffic (think good low end torque and the ability to put it all to the ground whilst turning out of a driveway).
I ended up selling it after having a MK2 NA for a while, and got a MK2 Turbo instead which I still have and love. That one will never be sold. And now there is a MK3 project in the garage, too. Perhaps someday if time, space, and funds allow, a MK1 SC could return to the stable. After all, a fleet with no T-tops just isn't complete!
This is the second time you have uploaded a wanted project car of mine just HOURS after I searched for it... Always a good watch with my morning coffee, well done sir!
My pleasure
Wow, there's a blast. I owned so many of these including the JDM only SuperEdition version. Cracking little car with sublime 1980s styling. Thanks for sharing!
I traded my 88SC for a mk2 turbo back in 91. Two years ago a new owner tracked me down and let me take it for a spin. Talk about a drive down memory lane. We're both in the U.S. but we appear in the October 2020 issue of the British car magazine "MR2 ONLY MAGAZINE". Yes, it's red too. Heart pangs still felt. Thanks for highlighting this gem.
Drove loads of them back in the day as we used to fit alarms and stereos in them, great little cars and I can see how a supercharger would make lots of sense.
I've had two Mk.1's, not the super charged but absolutely loved them, I want one now. To me they are by far the best model of the three marks.
My neighbour worked for Toyota in Ulster back in the day. He had the first MR2 in NI (a red hardtop) sat in his front garden as the dealership wanted to 'hide' it somewhere before the launch.
The MK1 was quite angular, which made it easier for his kids to climb up onto the roof and slide down its windscreen.
Probably didn't help the resell value much.
I have two currently. An '88 Mk1b road car and a '84 Mk1a tarmac rally car.
I went from a 1992 Celica Carlos Sainz to a 1990 MR2 in my 20s and much preferred the MR2. Those two cars taught me a lot about my preferences in cars. 🙂
It's a mini Testarosa with scaled down power and price, but all the enjoyment.
Peugeot 205 T16 is literally my dream car! We bought a new GRD in 1985 and group B was as glamorous as F1. I’ve had a gti but an NSX and a T16 would be my lottery cars.
My girlfriend in 2001 had one. Brilliant handling car. She had it 3 years, only thing that broke in that time was a rear wheel hub.
Please please try and get your hand on mr2 1.5 from wood spot 🙏 great work as always 👏
I love these cars. I have had 5 including 2 supercharged ones here in Oz. The supercharged versions can benefit from a oversized drive pulley which with a high volume intercooler fan easily pushes boost to 13lb and around 165-170hp. You can also use a later SW20 exhaust box with quad tips to improve breathing and dramatically improve the sound to a growl under boost. I had 17" wheels and upgraded shocks along with a body kit that integrated the front and rear bumpers into a smooth aero shape like the 944 turbo did for 944s.. Made for a brilliant track and road car. A real pocket rocket and with the bigger pulley the supercharger really screamed!
My best friend's dad used to have one of those AW11's (of course not SC'd ) when we were in middle school, really cool car.
Had one a long time ago and it remains my favourite one to drive… miss that car
While a university student in the late '80s, my family and I visited my aunt during the holidays, and she had a red MK 1 MR2 in her garage. I asked jokingly, "Hey Aunt Rose, can I drive your MR2?" Much to my surprise, she replied with "Keys are on the hook." As my father looked on in horror, I pulled the MR2 out of the garage for a quick spin around the block. I returned the car to the garage with a massive smile on my face. Awesome car and even more awesome Aunt!
I had one of these (non supercharged) back in my 20s. I great fun little thing.
I had a white one of these years ago, great little car, pop up headlights did it for me, great video.
I had an e reg one that looked judt like this. I absolutely loved it but for some reason Traded it I'm for a celica which was no where near as good. This car taught me everything about handling I'd have another one tomorrow.
I had a 205 GTI 1.6, and went for the Mk1 MR2 straight after. And considering the hero status the 205 GTI has (well deserved for sure), the MR2 didn’t disappoint me in the slightest.
A lovely revvy twin cam engine, great gear change and driving position was spot on! I didn’t understand the need for good tyres back then, but a nice set of tyres would have made it a great handling car.
But as an 18/19 year old car enthusiast at that time it was all about the stereo.
Alpine flip out touchscreen head unit which used to fold out and fill the square centre console perfectly…….apart from I couldn’t change the heater controls without folding the screen down……which I couldn’t do if I was in first, third, or fifth because the screen would hit the gearstick 😂
The little speakers in the B pillars were changed out for some basic Alpines, and a kenwood sub was under the passenger seat! And because of the little cabin, it was bloody awesome 👌🏻👌🏻
Fantastic video! Brilliant presenter! Hello from a first time viewer - mk2 MR2 owner over in Canada! 😎🇨🇦
Used to have one of these.
Best car I have ever driven,perfectly balanced
Great review. You really portrayed exactly why these cars are so good to drive and own. An ex girlfriend of mine had a late mk1 which was brilliant fun on roads just like those. I myself have owned a mk2 Na and a Turbo. I miss them both and would buy another in a heartbeat if I could. Once you’ve been bitten by the MR2 bug, you can’t shake it.
The first gen MR2 is my dream car. I only hope there will be some on the market by the time i have the money saved up
“Rectangular goldfish bowl” - AKA goldfish tank. Great car.
Made me chuckle so came here to say the exact same thing but you beat me to it 😂
Ah, the legendary 4AGZE. I transplanted one into my 1990 Corolla GTi-16. I didn't stop there either, added a larger crank pulley to spin the SC faster and a HKS Twincharger kit which added a hybrid T04E/T03 turbo.
My dad has one of these and I had an SW20. I loved them and wish they still made them. I have an FR-S and it's pretty close, but it's not quite the same.
Love the MK1 MR2, so '80s-tastic
The Midship Roadster 2 seater, you can’t imagine how unique that design was when it came out.. think Audi TT .. a game changer
Always love the audio quality of your videos!
I miss mine so much. Don’t have the guts to risk going for another. The last one in the end needed a fair bit of bodywork doing.
2:10 another reason for the supercharger apart from power - works better at altitude. Bear in mind the highest mountain in the UK is ben nevis, about 4 thousand feet. I went on a sunday drive recently out in the states and within an hour I passed a 9 thousand foot marker, and performance and fuel economy dropped off markedly. Supercharger means it will keep on pulling at altitude.
It's the one I regret parting with the most. Despite its rusty arches. Best driver's car ever.
My mate had one (non s charged) back in the day and ended up putting the two long, lead weights from a sash window in the froot to keep the front wheels on the road! ;)
The 80's angular look really starting to look good again.
Had a white T Bar 1986 to 1990. Loved it except that the flat engine cover was a great temptation to people who wanted to put plant pots, dustbins etc on it when the car was parked.
Great video as always :) I did enjoy the facts, thanks for the birthday gift.
There is just something special about these MR2s. I went looking for one about a year ago, trying to find a decent example of an AW11. I couldn't find one locally but stumbled across a local SW20 Turbo in decent shape. Despite owning and driving many of the greatest Toyotas of the era I had never driven an MR2 up to that point.
Five minutes later and I absolutely had to have it. Probably the funnest car I've ever owned, and I've got an ST165 Celica GT-Four and an AE86 that shares space with it. I don't particularly care about the rising values and how much of a collectors item it's going to be; it's just simply such an engaging car. If you get the chance to get one or to even drive one, regardless of generation, do yourself a favor and give it a go.
Hi. Brought back memories of the early eighties, but there was at least one officially sold Supercharged Mk.1 MR2 in the country as I missed it in the dealer by half an hour. It was sold by a Toyota dealer in Sidcup who told me that they had two of the five cars of different specs that were imported from Japan to decide on the spec for the UK (...and they were official, carrying the normal full Toyota warranty, as well as an extended warranty). I ended up buying the other which was, I presume, the luxury spec that wasn't sold in the UK.
Mine had factory fitted cruise control, the green over champagne paint scheme, uprated speakers and audio, different storage bins from the normal ones sold in the UK plus a full size alloy spare (which I was told wasn't normal).
It was eventually replaced by a BMW 325i M Sport, but kept in the family by my wife who only replaced it when she took over a TVR from me some years later. The MR2 is one of the only cars I've ever regretted getting rid of, but although it was mechanically perfect with over 40K on the clock, it was rotten as a pear when we did trade it in.
I converted my MKI to a 20V Silvertop Levin motor (faster than the SC version). Loved it. I also made a roadster MKI. Deadly scary in the winter or wet though. Its handling was scary enough that I never circuit raced it, but built a 85' AE86 instead, and it was faster than any MR2 I came up against in class, even though the MR2 was superior on paper.
The MK1 was probably more of a driver’s car than the MK2. We had the latter and nice as it was the 2 litre engine didn’t really want to rev and sounded coarse when pushed.
You should have gone there with the Doug stuff and said ‘quirks … and features’ that would have been hilarious Jay😂
Looks like you were enjoying some of Scotlands fine roads. Nice car I was lucky enough to have one as a company car back in the late 80s.
I'm owing the 88' Supercharged now (and many years ago) and this is a very fun car to drive with. Not a crazily fast car but it will give you an enjoyable real driving experience with your hands and feet instead of using lots of techs and computer's help. The design of both interior and exterior is unique when comparing with nowadays canned car desgin philosophy. It still looks great after 34 years now.