1989 Toyota MR2 T-Bar review from UK and Ireland

New exhaust (don't buy a cheap and nasty from KwikFit as was originally fitted to mine)

Two new batteries.

T-bar roof leaks (Once a year make sure a you clean and apply some silicone to the rubber seals)

Handbrake cable (the hand brake cable can freeze in place at low temperatures)

HT leads.

Needs new radiator (not yet completed)

This car was the one I always wanted as a kid. It has lived up to every expectation.

The handling and performance are superb. A decent set of rubber is essential if you are going to push the car to its limits.

I find the driving position extremely comfortable and supportive. My car has been to Italy and Switzerland in recent years and I never feel tired after the drive from the UK.

Luggage space is restrictive, but you will learn how to cope. There is a surprising amount of space in the bonnet and even behind the seats. On trips to France I have had 20 bottles of wine and a case of beer behind the seats!

Servicing is recommended every 6000 miles which can become costly if you use the car regularly. Don't use Toyota dealerships. Other running costs are good, 44mpg on long motorway runs, group 14 insurance and good reliability for a car of this age.

Tin worm (rust) is a big problem. If you are looking to buy check rear wheel arches and the top of the windscreen. My car has also rusted the radiator mounts right through (not sure how common this is?)

Buy a T bar model and you will also get leather seats as standard. The red cars seem to lose their colour and gloss.

My girlfriend owns a new Mini and the MR2 always turns more heads.