Toyota MR2 (1985 - 1990) T Bar Sports 2d (1990/G) Owner Review
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
That you are an individual! Much better image than the lesser MX5-type cars that suggest "wannabe" status. The car is still a major head-turner, and used to attract regular offers to buy it.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Loved it. In fact I sold it to a friend with the agreement that I would have it back when no longer wanted. Sadly a Volvo chose to park in it and wrote it off instead.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, although the rising prices, collectable status and increasing age of the type is making it more of a challenge to secure a decent example at an affordable price (hence my not now owning one).
What are you likely to buy next?
MG TF, as it is a similar platform with a similar size boot - if less refined.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£1,100
When did you buy the car?
August 1999
Did you get a good deal and why?
Got a fair deal, with a reasonable trade-in for my old Volvo 440.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Wanted a cheap, 2-seat sports car. Was told that this was an aborted Lotus design.
What was the dealer like?
Normal small second-hand car dealer.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
An absolute dream. Not for anyone taller than 6'2", who may find it hard to fit their left leg between the centre console and the steering wheel. Great to drive in town, but amazing on longer runs. Drove non-stop from Cognac to Calais, using the back roads, in utter comfort. Small weight means that the even the smaller, economical engine can deliver a lot of punch.
What's it like to park?
Really easy, a small car with great all-round visibility.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Rear brakes locked up (they really need regular services). T-bar used to "urinate" onto my leg when braking after rain. Otherwise unstoppable!
What's most practical about your car?
Good size boot for a real, mid-engined sports car (as opposed to the front-engined wannabe cars).
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Targa top gave all the fun of a convertible, without the loss of security/safety.
