Used cars: Toyota MR2

In 2000 Toyota launched the third generation MR2 - reverting back to the philosophy behind the original car. There was one engine option, a 138bhp 1.8-litre petrol unit, mid-mounted and driving the rear wheels.

There’s good level of standard kit, including sports seats, remote central locking, CD audio unit and alloy wheels and options include air-con, leather upholstery and a body coloured hard top roof.

Engines

You get one engine with the MR2, a willing and able 1.8-litre petrol unit. Not only does it deliver the goods it also sounds good, which helps perpetuate the car’s rorty, roadster image. Being mid-mounted access isn’t great, but checking the basics is possible.

Exterior

You’ll either like or loathe the little Toyota’s exterior. It might not be the prettiest roadster on the market, but there’s no denying that it looks purposeful. Better from the front than the rear, the MR2’s squat stance does help to lift its road presence a notch.

Interior

Like the exterior, the MR2’s interior is also a matter of taste. The sombre ambience is obviously lifted when the roof is lowered, but you’re still left with a lot of hard, dark plastic to look at.

That said, it’s tough-looking stuff, which bodes well if you forget to raise the roof and it subsequently rains. Being a Toyota, everything in the cabin works efficiently. The controls are clear and slick.

Driving

This is why you buy an MR2 - it’s a proper sports car in the low weight, high power category. The driving position is predictably low-slung and snug, and you feel all the sensations from the seat to help you point the car in the desired direction. Although modest in capacity, the car’s engine is willing, responds quickly to demands and makes all the right noises.

Don’t get too carried away though, as the MR2 can be a tricky customer if you push it too hard and lack sufficient talent.

Ownership

You’ve got to be dedicated to own an MR2 - or possess a second, bigger car for day-to-day duties. Realistically the MR2 isn’t an all-rounder; it’s a strict two-seater, space is minimal and it can be a handful if you’re not concentrating.

 The Toyota badge is a blessing though, and should ensure that servicing is painless, predictable and affordable. MR2s, like other Toyota’s, tend to be reliable cars despite the extra punishment they usually endure.

What to look for

All the usual stuff you’d expect to see when viewing a sports car: thrashed interior and exterior, kerbed or tatty alloys, soggy brakes and clutch action, lethargic engine, unusual suspension-related noises, exhaust smoke and questionable bodywork from a bodged accident repair.

Unless you’ve got deep pockets and an understanding insurer, modified cars are best avoided. The same is true of non UK-supplied cars. No service history or the ability to contact the previous owner should have you walking away.