Toyota - MR2

1990-00  2000 onwards 

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This long-running mid-engined two-seater sports coupe is bigger than the cars that preceded and followed it. Enjoyable, reliable and well equipped, it has a strong following despite some shortcomings.

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	Classic mid-engined rear-wheel drive layout
	Neat, purposeful, uncluttered styling
	Best after mid-Nineties revisions
	Handling on pre-1994 cars can be tricky
	Mazda MX-5 is more refined
	Tight cabin if you?re on the large side

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This MR2 replaced the petite, pert and pin-sharp original in 1990. Early Nineties cars lack power steering and ABS; and their handling is slightly unpredictable and can catch out the unwary driver. They're not recommended unless you offset their limitations against lower prices.
Revisions in March 1994 included modified suspension, a 173bhp high-compression engine and better occupant protection. These much improved cars are identifiable by their high-level rear brake light.
The post-1994 MR2 is fun, with precise steering, taut handling, good grip and plenty of usable power. The ride is sportscar-firm - great for driver feedback, less good for occupant comfort - and noise levels are high. The low-slung cabin is snug; some larger drivers complain of lack of width and headroom. It's nicely finished, though, and quite well equipped. The sought-after T-Bar has pop-out roof panels.
Reliability is good but some owners are negligent, so only buy with full history.