Toyota MR2 (2000 - 2006) 1.8 VVTi 2d (2003/03) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

You value having a car that drives well and looks good over having the latest German rubbish.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

You get the classic hairdresser jokes, often from those imaginative souls who drive Focus/Astras, but I still think it has a good image. Mates tease, but strangely all want a ride when it's time to go to the pub! Enough said.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Absolutely. It's a cheap, great to drive, reliable, smart, hard-working little roadster.

What are you likely to buy next?

A new (2010 onwards) MX-5, unless Toyota get round to making an MR2 replacement!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£5,995

When did you buy the car?

February 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes. Under £6k for a spotless, good mileage, mid engined sports car with history.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Three months after getting rid of my MX-5 for a Mini Cooper S I had enough and wanted something properly sporty again.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Amazing. The mid engined layout is bad for luggage but great for driving. Having owned an MX-5 before (another excellent car), I would say the MR2 probably just beats it on the handling front but wins hands down on power.

What's it like to park?

Easy.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The only things have really been wear and tear. The radiator needed replacing after a year of ownership (late 2010), but it had lasted since new (2003), and it was subject to the lowest temperatures since the year dot!

What's most practical about your car?

Nothing really, that's why I love it.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Not really a gadget, but it's a novelty to have the engine in the middle. It feels just that little bit more exotic. The red seats are nice on a dull day, too.