Toyota MR2 MkI

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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.

Dating from 1989, this MR2 was acquired by the vendor from an elderly gent who had owned it since 2007 but was forced to give up driving for health reasons. A really straight and original example to start with, the vendor states that it now looks excellent following a professional repaint and refurbed alloy wheels.

He rates the mechanical condition just as highly, stating that “it drives superbly with no known faults”, no doubt due to the fact that it has no fewer than 20 service stamps in the book up to around 92,000 miles in 2006 with bills for other maintenance since (including a new timing belt and water pump in 2007), the current mileage being just under 111,300.

Recently fitted with new rear tyres in response to the one advisory that was recorded when it was MOTd in February, it is due to be serviced again before the sale. Supplied with 8 old MOTs, the aforementioned service record, all original handbooks in the original wallet and three keys, it certainly sounds like a prime example.

These Mk1 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!