2000 TOYOTA MR2 Spyder Cabrio 1.8 VVT-i 5MT (140 HP)

Vehicle Overview

The third and last generation of the Toyota MR2, or MRS depending on the market, was launched in late 1999 as a 2000 model, and it was one of the lightest roadsters on the road.

While most Toyotas from those times were just bland-looking but trustworthy cars, the MR2 was special. It was built for fun and had two trunks and an engine placed behind the cabin in a mid-ship architecture. The carmaker made it for those who dared more and asked for a daily-driver fun to drive vehicle.

Its look was as sporty as a Toyota could be. Unlike its predecessor, it was available only as a roadster, the coupe being deleted. At the front, the round headlights were protected by additional lenses that enhanced the aerodynamic and flanked the low front trunk lid. There was a small grille on the bottom of the bumper, but it wasn’t used to cool the engine. For that job, the carmaker installed side scoops behind the doors. At the back, the taillights’ shape was similar to the lenses that protected the headlights, and on the short deck, which also served as an engine and rear trunk cover, Toyota placed the third brake light.

Inside, the cabin was cramped and for just two occupants. In front of the driver, Toyota installed a three-dial dashboard with the tachometer in the middle flanked by the speedometer on the left and by the fuel and temperature gauges on the right. Moreover, a few digital displays completed the information. Both seats sported high-bolstering sides that kept their occupants in place during high-speed cornering.

The MR2 was more of a corner-carving vehicle than a true drag-racer. Its 138 hp (140 PS) could provide enough performance thanks to the overall light weight of the roadster.