The third generation of Toyota MR2 that arrived in 2000 was
the ideal car to take on the Mazda MX-5 and MGF, particularly as it was the
first MR2 to have a fully folding soft-top. It mixed many of the attributes of
both of these cars while retaining a unique appeal, although the Toyota perhaps
divided the opinions of contemporary road tests and buyers more than its
competitors.
Actually there IS an alternative to an MX-5!
Sticking with the mid-engine layout of previous MR2s, the
third generation W30 model differed slightly by having its engine turned so the
exhaust manifold was to the rear of the engine bay. It also did away with the
rear luggage compartment, making this model more focused on driving fun than
practicality. This more than anything was what split opinions on the MR2 as
many were happy to enjoy the purity of the MR2's driving experience, while
others deemed it too compromised.
Weighing in at just 975kg, only a Lotus Elise could claim to
be lighter in the affordable roadster market. This meant the MR2 didn't need a
hugely powerful engine to deliver good, though not outright fast, performance.
The 140hp 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol motor could muster 0-62mph in 7.9
seconds, though some contemporary road tests saw 0-60mph times as low as 6.8
seconds, and a top speed of 130mph. Another benefit of the lightweight and
relatively mild power output was 38.2mpg average fuel consumption and many
owners report this is a very realistic figure in everyday driving.
Toyota didn't need to change the MR2 greatly during its
production life, which came to an end in 2006. The most significant were the
addition of a six-speed gearbox and alterations to the engine to prevent the
problems experienced by many early owners with disintegrating pre-cats that
ruin the engine. For this reason, the post-facelift cars from late 2002 onwards
are generally considered the most desirable. Take heed - though an early MR2
can look like a bargain it can also be on the verge of some expensive repairs.
source: http://www.pistonheads.com/doc.asp?c=52&i=26742
by Alisdair Suttie
by Alisdair Suttie
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