Depending on the country, in usa all manuals were 5 speed. Some smt were 6 speed in the later years. Sad though because the 5 speed manual gearing was too short especially compared to European 6 speed
My 01 zzw30 has 152k miles, freshly 2zz swapped 6 speed swapped with really rough paint and a bad top. Just ordered a robbins top though so slowly cleaning up the car. Owned it since 2017 when it had 120k miles.
When i was 22 years old, my first new car was my 1986 MR2, 5 speed manual, red with black/gray cloth interior and red rear wing. Changed the oil every 3k miles. Loved the pop up headlights. Not one problem ever. Kept it for 7 years and sold it with 73k miles and never had to change the pads or rotors!. Always engine braked by downshifting. Toyotas are super reliable
Cool car history😊👍 When I was a student in Denmark in 87, I got to drive my professor's new MR2 because he was too drunk after a class party to drive the long journey home (different times☺). I still recall how much the car enveloped the driver, and the snick-snick 5spd.
@@donswier definitely miss my MR2. Only on one very long trip I took, from Staten Island NY to Montreal around 1988-89 to watch the Montreal Grand Prix. Was pushing 100 mph. Car was rock solid. Think it had about 110 hp. But super light about 2,500 pounds
I thought engine braking was hard on the syncs? Acura said never do it on the gs-r unless engine speed was in a safe rpm and even then they recommended don't do it. I spoke to an actual engineer at Acura USA
I own a 1988 MR2 with 71,000 miles and it’s my daily driver. I get so many compliments about how cool the car looks and how they wish they never should of got rid of it.
Love seeing the MR2 spyder get some love! On the topic of frunk release in the glove box, I believe it is there so you can lock the glovebox and prevent someone from opening the frunk while the top is down.
Super swift and agile front, great balance and wonderful direct handling, braces within the doors (!!!), McPherson in the front, double wishbone in the back, airbox with separate inlet to the side-vent, variable inlet manifold (made from plastic!), 4-2-1-exhaust-header, precats from hell (remove as fast as you can), revs to 7200, VVTi from 5400, insane cornering speeds, massive grip in the back but also very snap-oversteer-happy, same roof-latches as MX-5 NA, same seat-rails as MX-5 NA (means interchangeable seats), best bushings from stock, brake cooling ducts, limited slip differential, another "glove-compartement" on the dashboard (takes at least 7 shades/sunglasses), pull-out odometer (easy as fuck), alsmost no rearview in reverse (got to lift yourself from the seat to see just anything), shiftknob with a wonderful throw, only 5 speeds (mine from 2000, this red one here is a facelift), a bit noisey on european freeways (last gear could have been a bit longer, as is 120kmh/5000rpm), 2nd pulls straight to 60mph/100kmh (due to rev-limit 7200), looks like a frog on crack but it is such an amazing kiddy-batmobile (mine is black as it's heart)!
215kmh top-speed (approx. 135mph) - like a drunken Armadillo on skates going downhill on a icey, bumpy road - due to it's very light front-axle at such speeds and the lack of a proper front-splitter.
13:45 The frunk release is there because if you park the car with roof opened , no one could have access to it if the glove box is closed, so no one can steel your storage area.
When you think about it, the placement of the hood ('frunk') release inside the lockable glove box makes total sense. It's a covertible, after all and you would not always put the top up when you park.
I bought a 2005 Spyder 2 years ago. This has to be the most fun car I've ever driven. The only downside is the SMT instead of the 5 speed transmission, but that is what gets attention at the cruise ins I go to. Most people have never seen anything like it. Very unique. Thank you for the deep dive into the Spyder. A fantastic little car.
A 2005 manual would be a 6 speed, I have a December 2004, 35000 miles, factory hardtop (lifts off in seconds)...tte /team Toyota europe style/roll bar... upgraded Sony head unit....as clean as the one in the video 😁
I have no complaint about SMT on a 2004. At about 50000 miles there was an odd intermittent problem with the SMT but with the replacement of two sensors it’s back to perfect. Fun car!
@lornepeterson777 Tyre availability is certainly a problem, particularly with the post face-lift model. Here in the UK, there is virtually nothing available with the exact specification. However, if you look on MR2 chat forums, you'll find that people have used slightly different spec tyres on standard wheels with great results.
I own a 2002 over 10 years now. I love it. The sexiest and most fun car I’ve owned ❤️ I get lots of looks and compliments.I really wish they’d bring them back!!!
Thanks for covering the MR2! I had a supercharged 86 AW11 (Japanese import). With the T tops off, music up, the supercharger whine and exhaust all singing it was an amazing car. I lived in the middle of Sydney Australia so only used it on the weekends. It put a smile on my face every time I drove it and there was no better place to be on a sunny day than driving one of the many twisty roads that surround the city. That car still enters my dreams on occasion and gives me the same sense of exhilaration when I wake up. It was $8000 well spent!!
AMD, few thoughts from a former MR2 owner... Coolant bleeding is not that hard, I did it as a DIYer. The left vent feeds the air intake for the engine which is cool. The hook for the front plastic lid has a holder that it's meant to clip into, you didn't clip it in lol. The parking brake on these isn't great, it's common to fail inspection. The "pull" label is missing from the roof release handle - they always fall off. Props to the owner, that thing is super clean.
One of the best presentations i have seen on the MR2. You provide an excellent description of the car with the right balance of information without getting too technical for folks like me that isnt a gear head. You are a natural and expert presenter!
IMO this is hands down the best MR2. Most light weight, best handling, convertible and looks great with a spoiler and some side skirts/front lip. People keep complaining about the modest engine but its nothing a few mods can't fix. I don't know why people hate this car.
I purposely bought one with a blown engine so I could swap it with the 2zzge. It is now the complete package it should have been from the factory. Funny side note, this car has a spare tire, and my much bigger GR Corolla doesn't 😅
@cya1no I agree, there's no fixing the 1ZZ and I don't know what Toyota was thinking giving the Spyder such an anemic engine. That's why it got ignored by everyone despite being a one of a kind sports car with nothing like it except the Lotus. I got full exhaust, CAPs MAF mod with 2ZZ injectors, Shorter intake piping to the airbox with a TRD filter, Lighter Flywheel, Short shifter and a better clutch. All braces, breast plate, and Tein Monosport Coilovers. It's still only around 140whp but it feels like a proper sports car. I will eventually get a turbo or engine swap but there's no way I'm spending 4x more for a Lotus.
The story I heard here in Japan was that around this time since the SMT (transmission) was being developed and used successfully in F-1, Toyota decided to take a big chance and be the first to offer the type of transmission used in F-1 cars in a street car.
AMD, always fun to see these older cars get some love. I have a 1989 Supercharged MR2 5MT with 152k miles that is still in excellent condition with no rust. I absolutely love that car. I wish I lived closer to you to bring it by. It would be so neat to have you come to Toyotafest in Long Beach, CA on 5/20/23. I'm sure you would have a great time and many subscribers would love to meet you! Hop on a plane and come on down! I'll be driving my MR2 down from WA State.
The only new car I have ever owned was a 2000 Spyder. Drove it over 100K miles without issue. I've owned an 88, and 91, and a 93. I love these cars! What a great channel!
Your review made me to keep my 2004 MR2, red just like the one you were reviewing. I learned so much from you, and appreciate the car more. I was putting it for sale, then I took it off after I see your review Thank you
@@erinericsson I have a red one as well, bought in 2012 with 25000 miles, now on 35000 miles..... matching Toyota hard top (lifts off in seconds), Toyota tte style/roll bar....car is perfect condition above and underneath...and I added a modern Sony head unit that doesn't look out of place.....good fun car.
These MR2s were selling for around $5-7K in good condition about 10 years ago. Most of them have been destroyed and junked. The survivors are just getting more rare and expensive.
I had one of these, I even did a few track days! Was truly emotion the night I sold it. Brilliant little car. The best steering feel you can ever get without spending 100k on a supercar or Lotus Elise!
@@Jfre2 I'm talking about the steering directness feeling specifically. The NB MX-5 is the more appropriate comparison anyway and that car is very good and better at other things... LOL
My 2005 Red SMT has been with me the last 15 years. It just hit 100,000 miles. Having the shift buttons on the steering wheel is just what you need for high speeds on the twisty Hill Country roads of Texas. That's what the Spyder is all about. Fun Fun Fun. Thanks for the Deep Dive. I hope they bring the MR2 back.
Definitely a classic so TY AMD, not see a MR2 Spider for ages but each time I did it was lovely too look at and usually driven by some young thing enjoying the sunshine with the roof down. Totally enjoyed this review and I also hope you can find an original windscreen for that beauty too keep it totally original. Much respect too the owner for keeping it the way it is almost perfect. Keep Safe Keep Strong 🦘🦘🦘🦘👍👍🚗🚗❤❤
Your videos are always perfect! Just the right amount of fact, opinion, & experience! I bought the first MR2 Spyder in Texas, back in 2000. It’s light, & deceptively quick! I have moving violations to prove it! Now I’m an OG, & I wish I had one for fun! It’s like driving a go kart. Wide wheelbase, low to the ground, & a nice engine/transmission power curve! Extremely fn car! .
I have to stop adding comments here as I'm a broken record. Fantastic channel and thank you for sharing this. We didn't get these up in the Great White North, not the second gen, but always thought these were wicked cool.
Thank you so much for considering what I ask you just last week : something about the MR2 spyder ! This one is very nice and it’s a phase 2 serie : 6 speed, daylight headlights and some styling effects . Here in the south of France we do not have rust in mine is a 2002 with no rust at all under the bonnet. I sell it last year with 131000 kms and it was running very nicely. Just have to take care of the oil level as these cars have the engine getting hot and they love oil. But as ever, if you survey the level, no surprise. In Europe, Toyota sell it with hardtop in option. And the European models were sold with LSD but not in US that was the biggest market for these cars. In France it’s really a rare car, I think you could find find much more of these in Germany. Thank you again for the eyes’pleasure to see such a very nice exemplar of the 1ZZ car 😊
I LOVED my MR2 spyder so much. The driving experience was nothing that i've ever experienced before. She burned oil due, but she did it consistently. Exactly 1 quart of oil every 1,000 miles. I'd buy again in a heartbeat.
I got one of these last january with less than 70,000k on it. I love it. I am getting some strange sounds on the breaks and during gear shift, but while I figure those out, this is the first car I ever really enjoyed driving.
I gave it a thumbs up before I even watched the video. Thanks for covering the w30. Actually an owner of sw21, but never had the opportunity to check out the gen3 until now. Many thanks.
I had a 2nd gen 91 MR2 2.2L N/A 5 speed manual red with black interior, and a moon roof. Put 150,000 miles on it and still ran great when I sold it. Wish I could have kept it.
My old 2002 Celica GT had the 1zz-fe up front. Wasn't very fast by any means but that car ran reliably for 190k miles before I sold it. I always changed the oil between 3-5k. Now I have a 22 GR86. Super fun to drive even if it is really a Subaru lol
When this generation of MR2 came out, I was in Iran and only had seen photos of this car. At that time I thought this MR2 and MK1 Audi TT were the best looking cars. I still think they are both the most gorgeous cars.
I would loved to have heard a before and after engine sound clip on the short block replacement vehicle. Surely that MR2 could be a collector s car...it's a real gem💎
Thanks for showing the storage. It's the one area where people shoot it down but the wife and I can go away for a weekend and have plenty of storage, No car better for a road trip :)
This car, the old integra, and honda del sol - I wish they'd come back. Your videos are fantastic, I hope to see a Prius 2023 Hybrid review when you get around to it.
The only thing cleaner than this Spyder is your shop. Wow. I love your enthusiasm and wish we could take our Spyder to you for all of our work! (Commute is too far). Great Dive, as usual.
AMD, My compliments to the owner/owners who have kept this rare car is such great shape through the years😁 Call me old fashioned but I prefer my 1ZZ-FE engine in the front 😉
My 2000 mr2 has the smt gearbox. Its fully sorted and is great.Bit slow on upshifts but down shifts are amazing.Bonus is you can drink a coffee or eat a cheese burger and still change gears.
i had zzzw30 and i loved it for the way it felt (raw and very analog) and could be controlled. Swapped it to 2gr and loved it even more. It drives beautifully but has its limit after which things get serious. Two things i didnt like - 1. absolutely no storage a completely impractical vehicle, 2. its a spider - i would really much more like it to have solid roof - i was driving with hardtop on all the time anyways but solid roof would make chassis even more stiff i believe. Very nice car. Good memories. If i had huge garage and could afford some collection - zzw30 would definately be there. Thank you for this vid.
As an owner of a Pontiac Fiero....I so appreciate the MR2. Cheap, fun little Mid engine cars! Definitely wish the Fiero had some of that Toyota Reliabilty. Oh and power steering haha!
I've had all 3 models, back on the original Mk1 now, but seeing the roof action here makes me miss that! Great cars, just pure 'Fun to Drive', which was the original Japanese market slogan... for a reason! Great review
I owned an original style 1984 (I think) MR2 like the one you showed as a photo in this video. Loved that car! I traded in a Tercel SR5 and bought it off the showroom floor weeks after it first arrived. The only issue I had was that it handled really badly in snow. Probably exactly because is was so evenly balanced front to rear. Still, such a fun car! Thanks for showcasing one.
Thank you so much for your input on the Mr2 spyder, I was debating in purchasing an Mr2 spyder survivor, and seeing this has been very informative. God bless you The Care care nut!!! love your videos
I have a Pontiac Solstice,and it has the button in the glove box too. I like your content and all the little roadsters. They go around corners like monkeys go through trees. Keep up the good work 🍻 CHEERS
Drove my 1zz to 251kmiles before I swapped to 2zz. Want to keep it purist Toyota. It's a solid car and perfect on the touge. Just needs work. Youd be suprised how different the car drives with upgraded coils and braces. Very underestimated car and has huge potential.
$273K on my 2001 MR2. Nothing compares to it, and I will drive hopefully for years to come. Bought it in November 2000 and we owned 3 previous mark 1 1986 MR2s in the past.
Excellent informative video. The Toyota MR2 MK3 is a great little sport car, it needs to be brought back, a sure success and great seller for the Japanese manufacturer.
Thanks for the positive review , i loved the car when i saw it on the track and it had a Toyota VictorRacing spoiler and was impressed on its performance
@@itsjuskey.__ yea i had a whole ebay exhaust from when I bought my car. 1zz in a economy engine and I drove it like it wasn't an economy engine for 4 solid years.
@@nx_Exe Thats another reason why i think it would blow even after gutted pre cats... driving it like your on a racetrack everyday that might be abusive to the engine
@@itsjuskey.__ yea i eventually got ppe headers and a megan racing exhaust and it was sounding really good for a 1zz. But it was also idling around 3k all the time
My son has a 2005 Gen 9 Corolla and that engine is absolutely bulletproof,, and so easy to work on.. As soon as I saw the Gen 1 MR2 back in the day,,, I was in love but the second I took a test drive,,,, at 6ft 4" ,, it just wasn't going to happen.
Frunk release is on the glove box cause you can lock the glove box. That way you can park the car with the top down and no one is able to open it. They also have a lock for the engine bay and the storage behind the seats
My first car was a Triumph TR-4A IRS, bought in 1972. When I get nostalgic and think about another, I remind myself I'd be much better off just getting an MR2. Sure, the MR2 does not have the old-world charm, but it runs!!
Another great video ! I’ve owned a Toyotas since @ 1983 Celica GTS , and later , a May 1987 Supra turbo among others . Looking forward to one of those on your channel someday. Thanks again.
Those control arms surprised me! Mine has 45,000 miles and hasn’t really been driven in snow, but has surface rust all over those rear lower control arms
Had lots of the mk1 and 2 MR2's, they are awesome little fun cars but the MK1 was the most fun and a real drivers car kind of like a road legal go cart. Never had a mk3, i was never keen on the shape but i believe they drive similar to the mk1.
Excellent video! I on a 2000 and a 2001. Few points, 00-02 have percats to make it ultra low emission for CA that were too close to the combustion chambers and they would fail, draw material in and oval out the cylinders causing them to burn oil excessively. Easy fix(google it) if addressed in time. With LSD if the wrong lube is used it causes synchronizers to fail. Other than those, very reliable. With motor weight over the drive wheels they do great in snow(except depth) with proper tires. Toyota engineers were so concerned with weight balance they purposely limited storage space in the frunk. This is one of the reasons they didn't sell very well. Anyway, thank you!
I bought my 3rd Gen at 72k and I love it! Amazing mpg (27 on avg, 30-33 if you drive good) and fun for what it is! I always get compliments and I plan to keep it for a while. 😁
@christopherbarber288 congrats and you’re right it’s a nice car as is! But if you add an intake, exhaust, headers and a tune it wakes up the character 50% and a turbo will 100%…! But keep it simple and enjoy!!!
had a 2000, Ate oil and spun a rod bearing. i replaced them in a parking lot in Atlanta and ran great! Road this baby in the rain going in the high 70's mph and my hair barely got wet! Will buy another one for a project car.
Many years ago as a young man I owned a MR2 MkI. It was a blast to drive. Now nearly 30yrs later I'm looking to purchase a MkIII version of the same car. Mid life crisis? Maybe. I just remember how much fun it was to drive, like driving a street legal go cart. 🏎💨
Hello The Car Care Nut, Love your videos and your shop! I own a MK3 MR2 Spyder, and have some bad news. Early models suffer horribly from Toyota's attempt to make the 1ZZ-FE an ULEV vehicle in the MR2/S first. The problem is that the cats are integrated in the exhaust manifold and start to degrade, resulting in pieces of abrasive material get sucked back into the combustion chamber. I purchased my 2001 years ago with less than 60k miles from a Toyota dealer and got scammed. Paid full asking price in Northern Michigan and ran into a snow storm for the test drive. All looked OK and had it on a lift to check for corrosion and it was perfect. NOT. When I got it off the trailer, it drove less than 10 miles b/4 the MIL/Check-Engine lamp illuminated. Engine burned oil at rate of 1qt/300-400 miles. Poor design/manufacturing of catalytic converters that degrade and scored the cylinder walls. 1ZZ-FE also know for oil ring issues and a terrible dealer that knew what was wrong. Found donor 2ZZ-GE with 6-spd from a same year Celica GTS and rebuilt both trans and engine to NEW....even added LSD Now I am happy. Her name is Peep 2.0 after upgrade. The 2ZZ-GE with 6-spd and LSD now is CRAZY fun and reliable. Performs like my previous 1993 MK-2 Turbo. Highly recommend the 2ZZ-GE swap for anyone that has issues with the 1ZZ-FE. PS: I miss the MK2 turbo!....it started rusting at the wheel wells.....should have repaired, but I do not do bodywork and sold. P-Chi
I love the MR2. Owned an 85 one with an automatic gear (Unfortunately) & T top. Drove it from CA to Seattle and back, often doing 125 MPH, was a lot of fun. Wish I had the spider with a stick shift. These are worth money now.
Purchased a new 2004 MR2 Spyder 5 speed manual in yellow. Still my daily driver 18 years later. Luv it. Btw I am 71 years old.
5 speed , not 6 ?
Depending on the country, in usa all manuals were 5 speed. Some smt were 6 speed in the later years. Sad though because the 5 speed manual gearing was too short especially compared to European 6 speed
@@supers0nic77 thanks , i am european , i know now.
@Tweedewoning oh I'm jealous i want to get one of those transmissions
@@supers0nic77 i do understand, but not impoosible to get one.
My 2001 MR2 Spyder has 9,000 Original miles, never seen rain. 5 Speed manual. Owned it since new. I absolutely love this car!
My 01 zzw30 has 152k miles, freshly 2zz swapped 6 speed swapped with really rough paint and a bad top. Just ordered a robbins top though so slowly cleaning up the car. Owned it since 2017 when it had 120k miles.
How would you know! 😆😆🤔🤔
Wow i wish mine was in such a condition
@mr2bmw, Sell me your high mileage Spyder 🤔🤣😁🤣
I’ll take it off your hands… you don’t want that Ole car
@@thomasharris5151 🤣🤣🤣🤣
We have owned all 3 models and are hoping to own number 4, come on Toyota.
If only 😞
When i was 22 years old, my first new car was my 1986 MR2, 5 speed manual, red with black/gray cloth interior and red rear wing. Changed the oil every 3k miles. Loved the pop up headlights. Not one problem ever. Kept it for 7 years and sold it with 73k miles and never had to change the pads or rotors!. Always engine braked by downshifting. Toyotas are super reliable
Cool car history😊👍
When I was a student in Denmark in 87, I got to drive my professor's new MR2 because he was too drunk after a class party to drive the long journey home (different times☺).
I still recall how much the car enveloped the driver, and the snick-snick 5spd.
@@donswier definitely miss my MR2. Only on one very long trip I took, from Staten Island NY to Montreal around 1988-89 to watch the Montreal Grand Prix. Was pushing 100 mph. Car was rock solid. Think it had about 110 hp. But super light about 2,500 pounds
@rhdrivingslovenia6413good point. I deleted all that extra info. Not needed
I thought engine braking was hard on the syncs? Acura said never do it on the gs-r unless engine speed was in a safe rpm and even then they recommended don't do it. I spoke to an actual engineer at Acura USA
@@darwinmonzingo9738 IDK about that. I had no issues with that MR2, i kept it for 7 years and 73k miles. Clutch was great, no issues with transmission
I own a 1988 MR2 with 71,000 miles and it’s my daily driver. I get so many compliments about how cool the car looks and how they wish they never should of got rid of it.
Ford can't put the name FORD on a car anymore cuz they sold junk for so long the GOV stopped them. Thats why, in some cases, certain cars disapear.
'88 with 71k miles? What's ur daily drive, 0.8 miles?
Bought it 5 years ago with 45,000 miles. Have to store it in the winter.
I had an 86 supercharged AW11. It was the best car I’ve ever had and was the dictionary definition of exhilaration!
I loved them!! Always wanted one but i just passed my driving test & car ins was peretty expensive 😂 Mk2 i loved too but MK1 for the win.
The cleanest shop ever! Thanks for sharing an overview on the MR2.
Love seeing the MR2 spyder get some love! On the topic of frunk release in the glove box, I believe it is there so you can lock the glovebox and prevent someone from opening the frunk while the top is down.
Clever in its simplicity.
@@ericgfx01 classic toyota
That is exactly why it's like that!
@nickn8817, thanks! That really is a nice tidbit of info
Its true.. same concept with miata's gas tank / suzuki jimny hood... (same convertible /open top)
Super swift and agile front, great balance and wonderful direct handling, braces within the doors (!!!), McPherson in the front, double wishbone in the back, airbox with separate inlet to the side-vent, variable inlet manifold (made from plastic!), 4-2-1-exhaust-header, precats from hell (remove as fast as you can), revs to 7200, VVTi from 5400, insane cornering speeds, massive grip in the back but also very snap-oversteer-happy, same roof-latches as MX-5 NA, same seat-rails as MX-5 NA (means interchangeable seats), best bushings from stock, brake cooling ducts, limited slip differential, another "glove-compartement" on the dashboard (takes at least 7 shades/sunglasses), pull-out odometer (easy as fuck), alsmost no rearview in reverse (got to lift yourself from the seat to see just anything), shiftknob with a wonderful throw, only 5 speeds (mine from 2000, this red one here is a facelift), a bit noisey on european freeways (last gear could have been a bit longer, as is 120kmh/5000rpm), 2nd pulls straight to 60mph/100kmh (due to rev-limit 7200), looks like a frog on crack but it is such an amazing kiddy-batmobile (mine is black as it's heart)!
215kmh top-speed (approx. 135mph) - like a drunken Armadillo on skates going downhill on a icey, bumpy road - due to it's very light front-axle at such speeds and the lack of a proper front-splitter.
13:45 The frunk release is there because if you park the car with roof opened , no one could have access to it if the glove box is closed, so no one can steel your storage area.
Yes, in my experience every trunk release on a convertible has been in the glove box regardless of country of origin.
@@why6212 The trunk release on my ‘03 Corvette convertible is on the dash…just to the left of the steering wheel.
@@vg3430 my personal experience does not include an '03 Corvette convertible. But it doesn't surprise me for Chevy.
If they can't steel it, can they aluminum it or iron it?
Just joking
🤔😁😎😅👌🏾💎
When you think about it, the placement of the hood ('frunk') release inside the lockable glove box makes total sense. It's a covertible, after all and you would not always put the top up when you park.
MR2 Spyder has been finally getting some love lately. I love my RHD MR-S with the sweet 6spd manual. 😊 Underrated
I bought a 2005 Spyder 2 years ago. This has to be the most fun car I've ever driven. The only downside is the SMT instead of the 5 speed transmission, but that is what gets attention at the cruise ins I go to. Most people have never seen anything like it. Very unique. Thank you for the deep dive into the Spyder. A fantastic little car.
A 2005 manual would be a 6 speed, I have a December 2004, 35000 miles, factory hardtop (lifts off in seconds)...tte /team Toyota europe style/roll bar... upgraded Sony head unit....as clean as the one in the video 😁
Mine's a 2003 with the SMT - a great driving car on summer weekends. Only downside for me is the lack of lumber support.
I have no complaint about SMT on a 2004. At about 50000 miles there was an odd intermittent problem with the SMT but with the replacement of two sensors it’s back to perfect. Fun car!
What kind of tires does this MR2 have? Are the different diameter rims still on the car? I have had a hard time finding good tires. Thanks
@lornepeterson777 Tyre availability is certainly a problem, particularly with the post face-lift model. Here in the UK, there is virtually nothing available with the exact specification. However, if you look on MR2 chat forums, you'll find that people have used slightly different spec tyres on standard wheels with great results.
I bought my 85 mr2 back in 2012, now it has 200000 miles and is still going strong. Great reliable little cars. So fun to drive!
My brother had a 1985 too with the classic 1st gen shape. Navy Blue in color with white pin striping.
I own a 2002 over 10 years now. I love it. The sexiest and most fun car I’ve owned ❤️ I get lots of looks and compliments.I really wish they’d bring them back!!!
Thanks for covering the MR2! I had a supercharged 86 AW11 (Japanese import). With the T tops off, music up, the supercharger whine and exhaust all singing it was an amazing car. I lived in the middle of Sydney Australia so only used it on the weekends. It put a smile on my face every time I drove it and there was no better place to be on a sunny day than driving one of the many twisty roads that surround the city. That car still enters my dreams on occasion and gives me the same sense of exhilaration when I wake up. It was $8000 well spent!!
AMD, few thoughts from a former MR2 owner...
Coolant bleeding is not that hard, I did it as a DIYer.
The left vent feeds the air intake for the engine which is cool.
The hook for the front plastic lid has a holder that it's meant to clip into, you didn't clip it in lol.
The parking brake on these isn't great, it's common to fail inspection.
The "pull" label is missing from the roof release handle - they always fall off.
Props to the owner, that thing is super clean.
One of the best presentations i have seen on the MR2. You provide an excellent description of the car with the right balance of information without getting too technical for folks like me that isnt a gear head. You are a natural and expert presenter!
Its 2024 and I want one. Looking online right now and that is why I am watching this video. Love the MR2.
IMO this is hands down the best MR2. Most light weight, best handling, convertible and looks great with a spoiler and some side skirts/front lip. People keep complaining about the modest engine but its nothing a few mods can't fix. I don't know why people hate this car.
after you drive a 2zz swapped one you understand why people spend 3-4x for a lotus, such a fun car
I purposely bought one with a blown engine so I could swap it with the 2zzge. It is now the complete package it should have been from the factory. Funny side note, this car has a spare tire, and my much bigger GR Corolla doesn't 😅
Jaloezie
@cya1no I agree, there's no fixing the 1ZZ and I don't know what Toyota was thinking giving the Spyder such an anemic engine. That's why it got ignored by everyone despite being a one of a kind sports car with nothing like it except the Lotus.
I got full exhaust, CAPs MAF mod with 2ZZ injectors, Shorter intake piping to the airbox with a TRD filter, Lighter Flywheel, Short shifter and a better clutch. All braces, breast plate, and Tein Monosport Coilovers. It's still only around 140whp but it feels like a proper sports car.
I will eventually get a turbo or engine swap but there's no way I'm spending 4x more for a Lotus.
@cya1no I'm thinking the Spare tire is useful on the Spyder to add a bit of weight to the front.
The story I heard here in Japan was that around this time since the SMT (transmission) was being developed and used successfully in F-1, Toyota decided to take a big chance and be the first to offer the type of transmission used in F-1 cars in a street car.
I Own a 2002 SMT. Fun car! 170000 miles. Very reliable.
Wow! Surprise! Surprise!
I just got my 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder this year. It’s very interesting to see you doing this video.
Purchased a 2003 MR2 a few years ago with only 17,000 miles on it. It now has 28,000 on it and I love it.
First time watching this channel..
This guy is clear, concise and breaks things down just right 👍🏽👍🏽
Happy that you, too, call it Mister Two 🙂
AMD, always fun to see these older cars get some love. I have a 1989 Supercharged MR2 5MT with 152k miles that is still in excellent condition with no rust. I absolutely love that car. I wish I lived closer to you to bring it by. It would be so neat to have you come to Toyotafest in Long Beach, CA on 5/20/23. I'm sure you would have a great time and many subscribers would love to meet you! Hop on a plane and come on down! I'll be driving my MR2 down from WA State.
This has to be the best profile of the little MR2 Spyder that I have seen in a very long time, excellent work, absolutely excellent 👍👍
Love my 01 MR2!!!!
The only new car I have ever owned was a 2000 Spyder. Drove it over 100K miles without issue. I've owned an 88, and 91, and a 93. I love these cars! What a great channel!
I just picked up a 08 V8 Limited 4runner with possible the cleanest frame on the east coast based off of your videos
Your review made me to keep my 2004 MR2, red just like the one you were reviewing. I learned so much from you, and appreciate the car more. I was putting it for sale, then I took it off after I see your review
Thank you
How many miles you put on it?
@@erinericsson I have a red one as well, bought in 2012 with 25000 miles, now on 35000 miles..... matching Toyota hard top (lifts off in seconds), Toyota tte style/roll bar....car is perfect condition above and underneath...and I added a modern Sony head unit that doesn't look out of place.....good fun car.
@@markbro4427 10,000 miles in 21 years? How come?
I love these. They are super small and just dope new cars will never be this size again
These MR2s were selling for around $5-7K in good condition about 10 years ago. Most of them have been destroyed and junked. The survivors are just getting more rare and expensive.
Paid 15k for mine over a year ago
They go for 12k to 15k for a solid mr-s
I payed 7k for my 39k mile beautiful 2001
@@arlenburgin2392 i paid $3900 for mine im 2017
@@nx_Exe timing is everything
Mr2 spyder rocks! Thank you for featuring it
I had one of these, I even did a few track days! Was truly emotion the night I sold it. Brilliant little car. The best steering feel you can ever get without spending 100k on a supercar or Lotus Elise!
@@Jfre2 honestly the mr2 steering is in a different class
@@Jfre2 I'm talking about the steering directness feeling specifically. The NB MX-5 is the more appropriate comparison anyway and that car is very good and better at other things... LOL
Probably depends on tires and year. 03 and up had improvements to chassis, wheel size
Each to their own. I’ve driven both MX5 as well as MR2 and I find the handling on the MR2 a league above the MX5
Still have my 2002 Mister 2 with 96k miles. I’ve owned an 1986 and 1988 MK1’s. This MK3 is in show car condition❤. Love your channel!
I had a 1st gen MR2 and I loved it. It handled like it was on rails. I loved it. I never drove one of these Spyder, but do like them.
This car brings back all memories from Toyota, right after cool Supra era...well done CCN !!
My 2005 Red SMT has been with me the last 15 years. It just hit 100,000 miles. Having the shift buttons on the steering wheel is just what you need for high speeds on the twisty Hill Country roads of Texas. That's what the Spyder is all about. Fun Fun Fun. Thanks for the Deep Dive. I hope they bring the MR2 back.
Hi, have you had any issues with your SMT? It seems to scare people. Is there any maintenance that you do for that transmission? Thanks. George.
Great review, what a nice guy too. Just bought red one just like this and learned a lot
Definitely a classic so TY AMD, not see a MR2 Spider for ages but each time I did it was lovely too look at and usually driven by some young thing enjoying the sunshine with the roof down.
Totally enjoyed this review and I also hope you can find an original windscreen for that beauty too keep it totally original. Much respect too the owner for keeping it the way it is almost perfect.
Keep Safe Keep Strong 🦘🦘🦘🦘👍👍🚗🚗❤❤
MR2 spyder with 3 cyl GR Corolla engine would be so cool!
Salute from SA TX 👋. One of the last convertible Yotas. Along with Solara
I loved the Spyder.
Used examples are going for crazy money now.
Your videos are always perfect! Just the right amount of fact, opinion, & experience! I bought the first MR2 Spyder in Texas, back in 2000. It’s light, & deceptively quick! I have moving violations to prove it! Now I’m an OG, & I wish I had one for fun! It’s like driving a go kart. Wide wheelbase, low to the ground, & a nice engine/transmission power curve! Extremely fn car! .
The C.C.N gave a hats off to "DOUG" with the "QUIRKs" of your great TOYOTA car review . . . GOD BLESS ALL I AM THE SHED ! ! ! !
I have to stop adding comments here as I'm a broken record. Fantastic channel and thank you for sharing this. We didn't get these up in the Great White North, not the second gen, but always thought these were wicked cool.
Same
I've had my 2003 MR2 for almost 2 years and I love it! It loves to hit the curves and twisty roads.
The frunk relelase is in the glove box because it has a lock and this car is a convertible. ;)
Thank you so much for considering what I ask you just last week : something about the MR2 spyder ! This one is very nice and it’s a phase 2 serie : 6 speed, daylight headlights and some styling effects . Here in the south of France we do not have rust in mine is a 2002 with no rust at all under the bonnet. I sell it last year with 131000 kms and it was running very nicely. Just have to take care of the oil level as these cars have the engine getting hot and they love oil. But as ever, if you survey the level, no surprise. In Europe, Toyota sell it with hardtop in option. And the European models were sold with LSD but not in US that was the biggest market for these cars. In France it’s really a rare car, I think you could find find much more of these in Germany. Thank you again for the eyes’pleasure to see such a very nice exemplar of the 1ZZ car 😊
I LOVED my MR2 spyder so much. The driving experience was nothing that i've ever experienced before. She burned oil due, but she did it consistently. Exactly 1 quart of oil every 1,000 miles. I'd buy again in a heartbeat.
I got one of these last january with less than 70,000k on it. I love it. I am getting some strange sounds on the breaks and during gear shift, but while I figure those out, this is the first car I ever really enjoyed driving.
I gave it a thumbs up before I even watched the video. Thanks for covering the w30. Actually an owner of sw21, but never had the opportunity to check out the gen3 until now. Many thanks.
Enjoy your reviews and ATTITUDE (MR2 fun to drive, a lost pleasure I fear).
I had a 2nd gen 91 MR2 2.2L N/A 5 speed manual red with black interior, and a moon roof. Put 150,000 miles on it and still ran great when I sold it. Wish I could have kept it.
My old 2002 Celica GT had the 1zz-fe up front. Wasn't very fast by any means but that car ran reliably for 190k miles before I sold it. I always changed the oil between 3-5k. Now I have a 22 GR86. Super fun to drive even if it is really a Subaru lol
Excellent presentation! We have been looking for one to replace the one we had many years ago. It is a fun car to drive and very reliable. 👍👍
That 1zzfe , bulletproof. Routine maintenance and those bad boys will last!
Howdy from Houston Tx!
Lol. You mean the 1zzfe oil burner? that's not a bulletproof engine and never was.
@@mr2cqql ok
@@mr2cqql earlier ones used oil, the facelift models 2003 on seem ok...my 04 never needs topped up between changes.
Hi AMD, love the video. The frunk lever is hidden in the glovebox so that the owner can lock it to prevent valet key from opening the frunk.
My Aussie made Wh Statesman from 2000 has that button for opening the boot via the glove box.
When this generation of MR2 came out, I was in Iran and only had seen photos of this car. At that time I thought this MR2 and MK1 Audi TT were the best looking cars. I still think they are both the most gorgeous cars.
I would loved to have heard a before and after engine sound clip on the short block replacement vehicle. Surely that MR2 could be a collector s car...it's a real gem💎
Thanks for showing the storage. It's the one area where people shoot it down but the wife and I can go away for a weekend and have plenty of storage, No car better for a road trip :)
I own a 1987 pontiac fiero gt with 80,000 miles and too love the mr2. I'm putting new tires on it right now. Nice video
Toyota always was and still is a step ahead! Great car this one and thanks for showing this!
I liked the Corolla GTI in white it looked so cool.
Lol they just ripped off the Pontiac fiero.. fj ceuiser they jist ripped off. Gm’s hummer.
A pleasant way of presenting things. Well done.
This car, the old integra, and honda del sol - I wish they'd come back. Your videos are fantastic, I hope to see a Prius 2023 Hybrid review when you get around to it.
The only thing cleaner than this Spyder is your shop. Wow. I love your enthusiasm and wish we could take our Spyder to you for all of our work! (Commute is too far). Great Dive, as usual.
Had a 2003 spyder dark green w/ tan int. and loved it! it had that trans you dont like but it had paddle shifters which worked perfectly.
The first car I did track days in was an MR2 roadster. Brilliant car!
AMD, My compliments to the owner/owners who have kept this rare car is such great shape through the years😁 Call me old fashioned but I prefer my 1ZZ-FE engine in the front 😉
My 2000 mr2 has the smt gearbox. Its fully sorted and is great.Bit slow on upshifts but down shifts are amazing.Bonus is you can drink a coffee or eat a cheese burger and still change gears.
i had zzzw30 and i loved it for the way it felt (raw and very analog) and could be controlled. Swapped it to 2gr and loved it even more. It drives beautifully but has its limit after which things get serious. Two things i didnt like - 1. absolutely no storage a completely impractical vehicle, 2. its a spider - i would really much more like it to have solid roof - i was driving with hardtop on all the time anyways but solid roof would make chassis even more stiff i believe. Very nice car. Good memories. If i had huge garage and could afford some collection - zzw30 would definately be there. Thank you for this vid.
Een cabrio om direct verliefd op te worden. Vormgeving is geweldig....ik vind het meer aantrekkingskracht te hebben dan de supercars.
As an owner of a Pontiac Fiero....I so appreciate the MR2. Cheap, fun little Mid engine cars! Definitely wish the Fiero had some of that Toyota Reliabilty. Oh and power steering haha!
I own a 85 Fiero iron duke with 60k miles…. 65’ VW Karmann Ghia and 2004 MR2
I've had all 3 models, back on the original Mk1 now, but seeing the roof action here makes me miss that! Great cars, just pure 'Fun to Drive', which was the original Japanese market slogan... for a reason! Great review
I owned an original style 1984 (I think) MR2 like the one you showed as a photo in this video. Loved that car! I traded in a Tercel SR5 and bought it off the showroom floor weeks after it first arrived. The only issue I had was that it handled really badly in snow. Probably exactly because is was so evenly balanced front to rear. Still, such a fun car! Thanks for showcasing one.
AMD, are you really giving away prizes or are these scams on you channel?
Scam dont fall fot it!
Thank you so much for your input on the Mr2 spyder, I was debating in purchasing an Mr2 spyder survivor, and seeing this has been very informative. God bless you The Care care nut!!! love your videos
I have a Pontiac Solstice,and it has the button in the glove box too. I like your content and all the little roadsters. They go around corners like monkeys go through trees. Keep up the good work 🍻 CHEERS
Drove my 1zz to 251kmiles before I swapped to 2zz. Want to keep it purist Toyota.
It's a solid car and perfect on the touge. Just needs work. Youd be suprised how different the car drives with upgraded coils and braces.
Very underestimated car and has huge potential.
$273K on my 2001 MR2. Nothing compares to it, and I will drive hopefully for years to come. Bought it in November 2000 and we owned 3 previous mark 1 1986 MR2s in the past.
Excellent informative video. The Toyota MR2 MK3 is a great little sport car, it needs to be brought back, a sure success and great seller for the Japanese manufacturer.
Thanks for the positive review , i loved the car when i saw it on the track and it had a Toyota VictorRacing spoiler and was impressed on its performance
I've had my 2001 mr2 spyder since 2017. This year I completed the 2zz swap after the 1zz blew at 149k last august. I absolutely love this car.
Did you gut the pre cats before it blew on you?
@@itsjuskey.__ yea i had a whole ebay exhaust from when I bought my car. 1zz in a economy engine and I drove it like it wasn't an economy engine for 4 solid years.
@@nx_Exe Thats another reason why i think it would blow even after gutted pre cats... driving it like your on a racetrack everyday that might be abusive to the engine
@@itsjuskey.__ yea i eventually got ppe headers and a megan racing exhaust and it was sounding really good for a 1zz. But it was also idling around 3k all the time
It had a bad piston design specifically the oil return holes were too small where the oil control ring sits
What beautiful and clean shop you keep. Thank you for sharing the information on the MR2.
My son has a 2005 Gen 9 Corolla and that engine is absolutely bulletproof,, and so easy to work on.. As soon as I saw the Gen 1 MR2 back in the day,,, I was in love but the second I took a test drive,,,, at 6ft 4" ,, it just wasn't going to happen.
i love the 2nd gen mr2. i really miss it. a beautiful car
I love that car. Great tour thanks AMD!
Frunk release is on the glove box cause you can lock the glove box. That way you can park the car with the top down and no one is able to open it. They also have a lock for the engine bay and the storage behind the seats
My first car was a Triumph TR-4A IRS, bought in 1972.
When I get nostalgic and think about another, I remind myself I'd be much better off just getting an MR2.
Sure, the MR2 does not have the old-world charm, but it runs!!
Another great video ! I’ve owned a Toyotas since @ 1983 Celica GTS , and later , a May 1987 Supra turbo among others . Looking forward to one of those on your channel someday. Thanks again.
Those control arms surprised me! Mine has 45,000 miles and hasn’t really been driven in snow, but has surface rust all over those rear lower control arms
Had lots of the mk1 and 2 MR2's, they are awesome little fun cars but the MK1 was the most fun and a real drivers car kind of like a road legal go cart. Never had a mk3, i was never keen on the shape but i believe they drive similar to the mk1.
they handle better than the mk1
There are a lot of design cues that have been borrowed from the 986 Boxster.
love seeing older unique cars like these!
Excellent video! I on a 2000 and a 2001. Few points, 00-02 have percats to make it ultra low emission for CA that were too close to the combustion chambers and they would fail, draw material in and oval out the cylinders causing them to burn oil excessively. Easy fix(google it) if addressed in time. With LSD if the wrong lube is used it causes synchronizers to fail. Other than those, very reliable. With motor weight over the drive wheels they do great in snow(except depth) with proper tires. Toyota engineers were so concerned with weight balance they purposely limited storage space in the frunk. This is one of the reasons they didn't sell very well. Anyway, thank you!
I bought my 3rd Gen at 72k and I love it! Amazing mpg (27 on avg, 30-33 if you drive good) and fun for what it is! I always get compliments and I plan to keep it for a while. 😁
When mine had the 1zz i was able to get 34 mpg bug i also have 6 speed swapped
The European 6 speed had tall gears. Probably could get even more mpg with it
@christopherbarber288 congrats and you’re right it’s a nice car as is! But if you add an intake, exhaust, headers and a tune it wakes up the character 50% and a turbo will 100%…!
But keep it simple and enjoy!!!
Good review as usual, thanks for showing us this cool member of the Yota fam.
had a 2000, Ate oil and spun a rod bearing. i replaced them in a parking lot in Atlanta and ran great! Road this baby in the rain going in the high 70's mph and my hair barely got wet! Will buy another one for a project car.
Many years ago as a young man I owned a MR2 MkI. It was a blast to drive. Now nearly 30yrs later I'm looking to purchase a MkIII version of the same car. Mid life crisis? Maybe. I just remember how much fun it was to drive, like driving a street legal go cart. 🏎💨
Mid-engine* life crisis 😂
Hello The Car Care Nut,
Love your videos and your shop!
I own a MK3 MR2 Spyder, and have some bad news. Early models suffer horribly from Toyota's attempt to make the 1ZZ-FE an ULEV vehicle in the MR2/S first. The problem is that the cats are integrated in the exhaust manifold and start to degrade, resulting in pieces of abrasive material get sucked back into the combustion chamber.
I purchased my 2001 years ago with less than 60k miles from a Toyota dealer and got scammed. Paid full asking price in Northern Michigan and ran into a snow storm for the test drive. All looked OK and had it on a lift to check for corrosion and it was perfect.
NOT. When I got it off the trailer, it drove less than 10 miles b/4 the MIL/Check-Engine lamp illuminated.
Engine burned oil at rate of 1qt/300-400 miles.
Poor design/manufacturing of catalytic converters that degrade and scored the cylinder walls. 1ZZ-FE also know for oil ring issues and a terrible dealer that knew what was wrong.
Found donor 2ZZ-GE with 6-spd from a same year Celica GTS and rebuilt both trans and engine to NEW....even added LSD
Now I am happy. Her name is Peep 2.0 after upgrade. The 2ZZ-GE with 6-spd and LSD now is CRAZY fun and reliable. Performs like my previous 1993 MK-2 Turbo. Highly recommend the 2ZZ-GE swap for anyone that has issues with the 1ZZ-FE.
PS: I miss the MK2 turbo!....it started rusting at the wheel wells.....should have repaired, but I do not do bodywork and sold.
P-Chi
I love the MR2. Owned an 85 one with an automatic gear (Unfortunately) & T top. Drove it from CA to Seattle and back, often doing 125 MPH, was a lot of fun. Wish I had the spider with a stick shift. These are worth money now.