Forget the Mazda MX-5 – this is the most fun Japanese sports car
When most people think of fun Japanese sports cars, a lightweight roadster usually comes to mind, but there’s another classic that many drivers overlook. A mid-engine Toyota icon delivers a unique blend of balance, responsiveness and pure driving pleasure that continues to delight enthusiasts decades after its debut. For those looking for pure driving pleasure, it arguably offers an experience that even the most beloved roadster can’t match.
Part of what makes this Japanese sports car so attractive is its configuration. The mid-engine design gives it a nimble, balanced feel through corners, and the feedback it delivers makes every twisty road feel like a playground. Its punchy four-cylinder power and precise handling make it feel alive at almost any speed, and unlike many modern performance cars, it doesn’t rely on electronic aids to create excitement.
For drivers who want a true enthusiast’s car that emphasizes connection, balance and fun when it comes to grip or lap times, this underrated classic proves that Japanese sports driving is about more than the obvious favorites. It reminds us that sometimes the most exhilarating experiences come from unexpected places.
To provide you with the most current and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article comes from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and Bring-a-Trailer.
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The third-generation Toyota MR2 is affordable, fun and readily available
Not as popular, but just as cool
The MX-5 is the benchmark for affordable coupes, and has been for about as long as it’s been on the market. However, other brilliant designs have gone unnoticed over the years. In our minds, one of the most impressive affordable coupes ever built is the Toyota MR2. While the second generation model is considered the holy grail, the third generation models are much easier to acquire.
The third generation is fantastic
It is quite common that the best MR2 is the second generation model in the Japanese market. However, getting your hands on these models is not easy, nor that affordable. While the third-generation model may not be the holy grail of MR2s, it’s still a pretty incredible sports car.
The most notable change was Toyota’s conversion of the coupe into a full-fledged convertible. This is why it is often given the nomenclature “Spyder”. It’s built on similar principles to the Mazda MX-5 Miata, in that Toyota wanted it to be small, light, and focused on driver enjoyment above all else.
Average used price
|
Model years |
Average list price |
|---|---|
|
2000-2005 |
$13,351 |
There are plenty of third-generation MR2 models on the used market right now, and they’re all pretty fantastically priced. We admit that there are more MX-5s on the market and that models of the same age are slightly more affordable. However, we actually like the fact that the MR2 isn’t as popular, making it something a little different from the usual choice. Either way, it’s hard to argue with an asking price below $15,000 for a mid-engine sports car.
There aren’t really any bad model years in the third generation. We would, however, look at a 2004 or 2005 model. The 2004 model year introduced an optional Torsen limited-slip differential and a reinforced unibody. It also benefits from the new springs and shock absorbers introduced for the 2003 model.
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Connect with the road
One of the main reasons people love the Mazda MX-5 is its simplistic ideology. It aims to give you fun and connect you to the road, avoiding putting electronic barriers in the way. In this sense, the Toyota MR2 and the MX-5 are very similar. They may have taken a different approach, but Toyota has definitely succeeded here in delivering affordable driving pleasure.
Toyota MK3 MR2 performance
|
Engine |
1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four |
|---|---|
|
Transmission |
5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
|
Power |
138 hp |
|
Couple |
126 LB-FT |
|
Transmission |
propulsion |
|
0-60 mph |
5.8 seconds |
Although the small four-cylinder engine under the hood may seem a little underpowered, it slows down enough to get the MR2 to 60 miles per hour in as little as 5.8 seconds. It’s actually faster than the MX-5s of the era. Indeed, Toyota’s little roadster weighs around 2,195 pounds, which is incredibly light.
Something unique about the MR2 that set it apart from other affordable sports cars of the time was that it was mid-engined. The goal was to create something that could rival the driving experience you get from European exotic cars for a fraction of the price. In our opinion, this is something they have achieved.
The balance and agility of the MR2 are fantastic. With much of its mass centered between the front and rear axles, it feels exceptionally planted when cornering. Its mechanical focus and brilliant responses make it just as fun to drive as the Miata, some might even say more so.
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There are a handful of second generation models
For a little more you could have the Peak MR2
If you’re not quite convinced by the third generation’s modest power or its more rounded exterior styling, you can actually find second-generation models if you’re willing to wait and spend a little more money. Aside from being more powerful, the second generation MR2s are one of the most fantastic cars of this era, which alone could be worth the extra money.
Getting a second generation MR2 is not easy
The second generation MR2 is considered the best MR2 for several reasons. The first thing you notice is how gorgeous it is. This is the model that people call the “baby Ferrari”, and it’s not that hard to see why. Its sleek lines and targa roof make it feel like a real exotic car rather than an affordable imitation.
These models are much rarer on the second-hand market. There are very few that come up for sale, and you really need to grab them quickly before they get snatched up by someone else. Imported JDM models are particularly sought after, but they obviously fetch much higher prices at auction. The second generation models were auctioned off on Bring-a-Trailer for between $10,000 and $40,000.
Turbocharged models are weapons
|
Engine |
2.2-liter naturally aspirated inline-four |
2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four |
|---|---|---|
|
Transmission |
4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual |
5-speed manual |
|
Power |
130 hp |
200 HP |
|
Transmission |
propulsion |
propulsion |
The second generation MR2s produced for the American market came in two different forms. Base models came with a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, with Turbo models developing significantly more power. Japanese market models produced 163 horsepower in naturally aspirated form and 218 horsepower in turbocharged form.
The only downside to the second generation MR2 is that it is the heaviest. North American market models weigh approximately 2,600 pounds. That’s part of the reason these models took 6.1 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour. Either way, their raucous personality is one of the main reasons why these models are the most sought after.
