Toyota MR2 (2000 - 2006) 1.8 VVTi 2d (AC+Hard Top) (2001/51) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Summary
What does this car say about you?
That you don't follow the crowd. Its not a trendy car. I have no idea why it is not rated much, much higher. The practicality stuff (no boot etc...) is a red herring in my view. I can get a full Tesco shop behind the seats.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Love it. My wife thinks it's one of the best things we've ever bought.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, yes, yes. If I can find one. I am seriously thinking about buying one to keep in the garage until this one eventually falls over. Toyota - when are you going to make the replacement? And please don't make it a hardtop!
What are you likely to buy next?
If not one of these, I have no idea.
-
Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£7,500
When did you buy the car?
February 2007
Did you get a good deal and why?
Reasonably good - got a pretty good trade in & bought in February (who buys a soft top in the winter? Bargain hunters!)
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Looking for a toy. Drove it, loved it instantly, bought it. Hardtop was a plus.
What was the dealer like?
Good - a known quantity, we have had several from him over the years.
-
Driving it
What's it like to drive?
The handling - pure joy. I have not even come close to the limit. It's like an Elise but with a splash of cpmfort (just enough) but without the spine shattering ride. Could do with a touch more grunt (I would say it's quick rather than fast) & slightly taller 5th gear. But it trotts along very nicely if you keep the revs up.
What's it like to park?
Doddle.
-
Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Yes only one thing - rear brake seized on during last years long cold winter (the car lived outside throughout). Needed a new caliper & 2 new disks - £650, ouch! Other wise no faults. A grip - the alloy wheels are corroding - this seems to be a Toyota trait - Why, why, why??? As the front & rears are different sizes, they are difficult to replace
What's most practical about your car?
It's an everyday commuter returning around 40 mpg. Hardtop in winter is a big plus and actually stiffens up the body torsion a bit. Having said that, the scuttle shake is minimal.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The childish grin every time I get out of it. I will never tire of this car.
