1988 Toyota MR2 T-Bar review from UK and Ireland
"A top-value proper sportscar."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clutch.
5th gear selector.
Brake discs all round.
T-bar leaked.
General comments?
Great handling. Backend doesn't slide out as you'd expect (or hope), but can fishtail in the wet or if pushed!
Most people think they cost a fortune.
Rust found in stupid places.
Can be 'fun' packing in gear all around the car when travelling.
For such a cheap car you get hard looks, handling, good speed, flip-up headlights, removable roof, toys, rear engined car and being a 2 seater, people stopped asking for lifts (good thing..)
But... some unique parts VERY expensive. Fuel economy good, services can be cheap. Group 15-16 insurance.
Very reliable, only let me down once once and that's because the battery died.
Low-slung seating postition and centre console means changing gear with your fingertips with your elbow resting in the centre. Cool.
Being a compact car with unassisted steering and a low stance, you really do feel 'at one' with this car. They say it's more fun to drive than the bloated mk2 (which are still cool cars but for different reasons).
Girls love 'em, but they have a 'hairdresser' image. Total bollocks.
Would love to buy another one, but as a second car unless mint (import Supercharged version not too expensive).
Buy one!
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1988 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 twincam 16v petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 125000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 156000 miles |
| Previous car | Rover - Austin 414 SLi |
| Date of Entry | 28th November, 2000 |