1989 Toyota MR2 , T-Tops, Base Model review from North America

Problems in 14 years of ownership (for 12 years it was my father's) :

-Replaced a brake caliper

-Power antenna failed - it is now permanently in the UP position and will stay that way because I don't intend to spend approximately $250 on a power antenna unit.

-Both electric window lifts are failing - CLACK! CLACK! POP! "Please keep going up, nice little window!" This is especially fun in the rain...

-Oil leak from engine somewhere - I'm pretty sure it's from the oil pan.

-Suspension seems to lean to the right (driver's side). My dad and I are both about 200lbs, I think the driver's side springs are sacked out.

-No rust!

Sharp handling. A little gutless. Could use a little more rasp in the exhaust note. I feel special when I drive this car because I only see another MR2 of this vintage once a month, if that. I live in Minnesota - this type of car isn't very popular here because of the snow and ice.

I don't even consider driving this car in the snow because I tried twice and nearly exterminated myself both times. Besides, it does lousy donuts - all it does is understeer...

My father bought this car for himself on the day after my 16th birthday. I have harassed him for years to sell it to me. He finally GAVE it to me 2 years ago when he traded up to a 2001 MR Spyder.

I drove it from Austin, TX to Minneapolis, MN and was never uncomfortable (did I mention that I am 6'3"?) and the car returned a consistent 37mpg at 75-85mph.