Lot details Registration No: J231WOB Chassis No: JT163SW2000050391 Mot Expiry: Nov 2011
The original mid-engined two-seater MR2 (it stood for Midship Runabout Two-Seater) was an unexpected offering from Toyota - a manufacturer previously noted for its practical but very conventional family cars. It certainly caused quite a stir when it burst onto the market in 1984 - from its 'origami' styling to its Lotus designed and honed suspension, the newcomer was a welcome breath of fresh air. Lightness complemented by the gutsy DOHC 16-valve 1587cc engine already proven in the Corolla Saloon were the main keys to its success. The concept was developed over three generations of model before production ceased in 2007. Though the styling and detailed specification changed considerably over the period, the basic elements of MacPherson strut suspension all round and in-line four cylinder engine mid-mounted across the chassis were common throughout. The second generation model was introduced in 1989 and rolled out around the world over the ensuing two years. It was a very different looking car. Gone were the angular lines of the inaugural model to be replaced by softer flowing ones more akin to the Pininfarina-styled Ferrari 348 and F355. Indeed, the resemblance was sufficiently close to spawn bodykits that enabled those with the passion (but not the wherewithal) to purchase the real thing, to create a passable imitation. The newcomer was larger all over than its predecessor and therefore heavier too - by some 375 pounds. The potential effect on performance was countered by the replacement of the 1587cc engine with a 2-litre one - the 1998cc 3S-FE unit for the standard Coupe and the more powerful 158bhp 1997cc 3S-GE unit for the GT Coupe and GT T-Bar (Targa) model.
The right-hand drive 1992 model on sale is one of the latter. It is finished in White with a Black leather interior. The Toyota has reportedly had six keepers to date and is understood to have remained with its previous lady owner for some ten years. 'J231 WOB' comes complete with all but one old MOT certificate and service book with eight stamps, suggesting the indicated mileage of 118,739 is correct. The vendor considers the MR2's trim, engine and gearbox to be "very good" and the bodywork and paintwork to be "good".
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