What's an MR2?

The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engined, 2 seater sports car manufactured by Toyota Motor Corporation of Japan.

There are several opinions on the origin of the name "MR2". I haven't listed all the variations, but here are some of the most popular interpretations of the name:

"Mid engined, Runabout, 2 seater"

"Midship Runabout 2-seater"

"Mid engined, Rear drive, 2 seater"

"Midship-engine, Rear-wheel drive, 2 seater"

"Midship Racer 2 seater"

There are three different generations of MR2 commonly known as:

The Mark I (MkI or first generation) produced from 1985 to 1989

The MkI production line includes the following engine types:

Normally aspirated version produced from 1985-1989

Supercharged version produced from 1986-1989 (1988-1989 in North America)

The Mark II (MkII or second generation) produced from 1990 to 1995 (for North America, produced until 1999 in Japan and other countries)

The MkII production line includes the following engine types:

Normally aspirated version produced from 1990-1995

Turbocharged version produced from 1990-1995

The Mark III (MkIII or third generation) produced from 2000 and still in production. This is the first convertible model of the MR2 and is known as the MR2 Spyder.

The MkIII production line includes the following engine types:

Normally aspirated version produced from 2000-current day

Design and Development Information

SV3 Prototype

MkI - A Lotus Concept? - Todd Anderbery

Information on the Latest Model (2000)

MR2 Spyder information coming soon

Information on the Last Overseas Model (1996-1999)

Although the MkII has not been available in North America since 1995, it was manufactured and sold in several countries such as Japan, UK, Australia and Switzerland from 1996 until 1999.

1998 MR2 Pictures and Info - Roger Attrill

1998 UK specification MR2 T-Bar

1997 MR2 GT Pictures

Toyota Japan's 1997 Toyota MR2 information. (Japanese Only)

Australian 1997 MR2 GT Information

1995 Sales Brochure Information

1994 Sales Brochure Information

Information on the Last North American Model (1995)

1995 was the last year of sale for the MR2 in the United States and Canada. It continues to be made and sold in Japan and other countries (1997 model). Hopefully Toyota will continue to build this unique mid-engine sports car and revive sales in North America.

Toyota Australia's 1995 Toyota MR2 information.

Drivin' Spritz MR2 information. (Japanese Only)

Views and Reviews

Reviews of the MR2 Spyder - Compilation courtesy of Don Alexander

(9.25.99)

Scott MacLean has provided a review of his 1991 Turbo MR2.

Greg Tsoutsas has provided his impressions of test driving a 1989 Supercharged vs. a 1993 Turbo.

David Hough's posting entitled " Middle Aged Man Meets MR2 Again For The First Time" which will give you some insight as to why MR2 owners love their cars.

Josh White's conclusion in his quest to find an affordable used sports car.

Jamie Dennis' impressions as a new MR2 owner.

Dave Kessler's comparison of MR2 vs. BWM Z3.

Various road test and technical data articles.

MkII History - Troy Pummill

SW2x (MkII) History - Japanese only

MR2 Review - Team Monty