The MR2 Search is On

I don’t have one yet but I’m on the lookout for a 1988 or 1999 Toyota MR2 Supercharged with manual transmission in great shape.

I did go an look at one in North Carolina in July but it had cooling problems along with steering and brake issues. I learned a lot looking at that one. I’ve also been looking on eBay for probably over a year – a bit more now though.

I may wait until next year once I sell my condo and get a house unless I find a really great deal in the meantime. It would have to be REALLY great though.

People keep asking me, "Why an MR2?" Well, if you don’t know, I can’t really explain it but I’ll try. For me, my uncle let me drive his when I was like 17 years old and I loved it. It’s a mid-engine car, so it’s balanced really well – which helps it being rear wheel drive. It’s only about waist high, so it’s really low to the ground. They’re just awesome. The one I want is the MK I model but a few years in, so they’re not exactly like the 1985 models but better in my opinion.

I found out today that MR2 means "Midship Runabout 2 Seater." That’s what the emblem on the hood is for.

There’s a huge audience out there, too. People love these cars.

Some things I’ve learned already:

• The alternators rust since there’s a vent right above them where air is supposed to come in. Unfortunately, water can gather there and drip right onto the alternator.
• Rust is the big issue. High mileage doesn’t mean a whole lot.
• The cooling system is a little more complicated since there is a radiator up front under the hood.
• The exhaust system is less complicated since it’s right by the engine.

A dirty looking engine is a huge turnoff for me. And in general, the car needs to look like it was cared for all these years or forget it.

So the search is on!

-Tony