Toyota MR2 MkI AW11

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

With an intoxicating blend of Ferrari looks, Lotus handling and slingshot performance, the mid-engined MR2 became an instant classic from the day Toyota launched it in 1984.

Powered by a Cosworth BDA-inspired 129bhp 1.6-litre four with a dizzying 7,700rpm redline, it had a 5-speed box and could sprint to 60 in 8.5 seconds with a top speed of 120mph. Weighing just 1,070kg it also had perfect weight distribution with ride and handling honed by Lotus (aided by development driver Dan Gurney). The race car feel continued with a short-throw gearchange, razor-sharp throttle control and immediate, darting response to steering input.

The result was a blisteringly intense driving experience that would be instantly familiar to a Porsche 911 or Ferrari F355 driver – yet at a fraction of the price. With origami-inspired folded angular lines, it also looked great and was immensely strong with no fewer than five bulkheads between the different compartments. It was replaced by the much porkier Mk2 version in 1989 and good ones are becoming increasingly collectable today.

This October 1988 MkI T-Bar has had just two owners from new, the current lady owner acquiring it from Toyota Guildford way back in January 1992 (purchase invoice on file). Finished in white with a full black leather interior (including dashboard and doors) it is said to be highly original throughout, retaining its original alloy wheels, stereo, covers for the removable roof glass, handbooks etc.

Always properly maintained, it has covered some 100,600 miles to date with many stamps in the service book and a detailed log of services in the current 27-year ownership recorded by the owner’s husband. There are also many invoices and records of 14 previous MOTs. Recently fitted with new brake discs, calipers and pads and given a full service, it has an MOT until 29th August 2019 with only one advisory – ‘underside freshly rust proofed’ – which is surely a good thing!

Supplied with two sets of keys and a Haynes manual, this well historied, two-owner sports car hides its miles remarkably well and looks like a lot of fun at the guide price suggested. These early MR2s have developed a real cult following of late and once you get behind the wheel of this one you will fully appreciate why. Equally at home on road or track, this pocket rocket is one to buy now before everyone else cottons on!