The Forgotten Toyo-rrari // The Poor Man's Ferrari

One can easily argue that the Toyota Supra MkIV became even more popular because of its appearance in the original Fast and the Furious movie. But, I can help but wonder if the mk2 Mr2 would have curried as much acclaim as its Supra cousin if it were instead the hero vehicle driven by the film’s protagonist. If it were, would the value of mk2 Mr2 see the same velocity as the mkIV Supra. Or perhaps, this idea is flimsy at the least, and I might even be a bit biased to think this way.
Don’t get me wrong, a mk2 Toyota MR2 was a minor car in the film, for a brief shot. And even more, the character Vince was supposed to drive a Toyota MR2. However, with the actor Matt Schulze being over 6 feet tall and the director looking for more optical tuning, Vince instead ended up driving a Nissan Maxima.
Decades later, it’s just something to chew on but doesn’t change the fact that the Toyota Mr2 staged its mark of opulence as a 90s icon.
The story begins in the late 1980s, rumors were quickly spreading that Toyota was designing yet another mid-engine sports car, perhaps to follow in the success of the mk1 mr2. But this time it would be powered by a 3.0L V6 engine that could directly compete with the Ferrari 348. At the same time, the speculation was brewing all while the mk1 mr2 was still in production and even before the mk2 mr2 was officially shown to the public. Later on, this specific rumor was shot down under the pretense that if such a car was designed, it should belong under the Lexus branding.
Who knows what started all these rumors but eventually, the mk2 mr2’s release would come to fruition, once the dust settled. In Japan, this new mr2 was available in quite a few trim levels offering a variety of luxury, creature comforts, and engine options. The G and G-Limited used the naturally aspirated 2.0L 3SGE and the top-tier GT-S and GT variants were powered by the legendary 3SGTE.
As the spiritual successor of the mk1, this new Mr2 stayed true to the proven mid-engine design. But already the mk2 set itself apart with its larger, heavier, and more curvy body.
The additional weight, about 350 to 400 lbs, came at the expense of a more luxurious and spacious cabin, larger engine sizes, a sturdier transaxle, and a more durable suspension setup.
In particular, Formula 1, Indy, and Nascar driver Dan Gurney was also involved with the mk2’s suspension and did a lot of testing and tweaking to help dial it in. The fact that he was very tall for a race car driver, about 6’4″, may or may not have played a role in the surprisingly large interior space of the MR2, as suggested by some rumors.
Despite the weight, this new rounded, streamlined styling was well received, with claims of it looking nearly as exotic as Ferrari's then-new 348. In automotive circles, the design cues were so similar that the MR2 quickly became known as a "baby Ferrari" or "poor man's Ferrari".
Personally, I’ve never agreed with this opinion. At best, maybe some Mr2 body kits might create a Ferrari-esque appearance. Either way, two completely different cars.
In North America, the 2nd generation MR2 was sold from 1991 to 1995, with Canadian sales ending in 1993. In select markets, the mr2 continued to be sold up to 1999.
Now, let’s demystify some common misconceptions about our beloved mk2 Mr2. The 2nd generation MR2 is often referred to by its chassis code, SW20. Now, this can be a bit confusing especially if you live in North America. The actual number stamped on the firewall is SW21 for Non-turbo cars, and SW22 for Turbo cars. To further elaborate, the SW21 was reserved for the non-turbo variants or more specifically the models powered by the 5SFE engine. Though not as punchy and fun as the turbo models, the 5SFE definitely wins praise for its reliability and durable nature. And, the SW22 stamp came on the turbo models or those propelled by the famous 3SGTE engine.
By far, the T-Top options were most common on the mk2, especially in North America. Sunroof and hardtops were also offered, with the hardtops being the most sought after due to their lighter weight and added rigidity. Most mk2 Mr2 owners have experienced the feel and sound of their T-Top cars flexing when straddling steep inclines. Which really gives a good idea of how much of a difference the hardtop makes. And to add insult to injury, most mk2 Mr2 owners have at some point dealt with a leaking t-top. Personally, I’ve been there and debated if it was worth spending money on factory replacement seals or just pulling out a tube of silicone for a patch job. As a result, finding a hardtop model is challenging, and I’m sure the few in existence are calling for some serious money.
Alas, Toyota continues to add insult to injury by offering three very rare special versions of the SW20 Toyota MR2, none of which were available in North America. The chances of stumbling upon any of these on the used market are extremely slim, but we’ll touch on them briefly anyway.

[@GearQuest]

mk1 MR2 video --> kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZ7QqaybaNJpi7c

[@xoiylo4660]

Honestly the MR2 is my realistic dream car. I managed to find an okay-ish N/A model just after I turned 19. All of the cars I want to own are skyrocketing in value so I was over the moon the MR2 was still affordable. The mechanical side is mint, just the body work and some of the bolt on stuff underneath needs attention. Instead of saving for a “better” car I’m spending and saving money for restoring the body work and swapping in a built 3SGTE. Absolutely over the moon. Excellent daily.

[@ianedmonds9191]

I drove one daily for about 5 years. It was probably the most exciting car I've ever owned. It was 94 sw20 rev3 NA with the GSGE engine making about 174bhp. I'd modded it a little with a K+N and a Janspeed exhaust. I later took the K+N off because it was failing emissions on the mot. Mine was a t-bar and full leather interior. It was a great car to thrash around b-roads with the tops off. It was also good to cruise around in. Kids loved it and pointed and asked their Dads what it was. With the K+N and exhaust it sounded awesome. I lived out in the sticks at the time so I thought noise wasn't much of a problem. One time at the local shop a farmer cornered me and told me his cows were dumb and could run out on to the road if I went past making a loud noise. The only thing I ever hit was a Pheasant. They are basically bred to commit suicide so I didn't let that get to me much. It wasn't a fast car by the standards of the time but it sure was a fun car. It cornered like a housefly. I respected the mid engined nature of it always and only spun it twice when I deliberately tried to provoke it on a corner I turned every single day. When it let go it did go fast and you were able to catch it but as soon as you did it gripped again and you were shooting off in the direction of your counter lock. I tried it twice then decided I wasn't quick enough to catch the drift and gave up on that idea. The party piece of the SW20 was the takeoff from a standstill. It was measured at 7.4 secs to 60 from a standstill but in the car it felt much faster than that. Once you dump the clutch the car leaps forward with all the weight transfer moving to the back and creating more grip. Off the line the MR2 was spectacular. You could almost get to 60 in second but not quite. at about 55 you hit the 7250rpm redline and had to shift. I reckon with a longer 2nd gear the 0-60 could have been nearer 6.x seconds. All in all a fantastic car. I ran mine to over 140,000 miles and eventually it was the tinworm that killed it. The old problem of the sills rotting because of the sound deadening sponges leaking out onto the sills. Great memories. Luv and Peace.

[@jaed64abfsm36]

Have owned a Toy. MR2 Mk2 Rev 2 (a 1992 GT T-Bar model, with all the *two’s*), for nearly three weeks… Love the car, have only found-out from an oil change & on-the-ramp inspection that the car needs a few usual wear components to be replaced (both front discs & pads, as well as two rear tyres). Love this car very much - she’s already part of the family -, as without her, wouldn’t earn anything from a current employment (as a delivery driver). Have got a small radiator leak & the coolant needs to be flushed anyhow, so will get an aluminium MR2Ben radiator. This car always makes me smile & the sense of speed is as you say-even if most modern cars of today & at-the-time are / were quicker. That sponge is gonna’ be removed, as don’t like tinworm or anything subtracting from Noise, Vibration & Harshness!

[@7771ham]

I’m about to buy a 93 mr2 with a 2GR swap. If you can afford it and haven’t gone with the 3S yet I would get a 2GR!

[@abdulqadir5714]

Kk

[@kerrywilliams9819]

I've owned an MR2 Turbo for 23 years. In 2000 I met Dan Gurney and I asked him about his alleged involvement in the developing the car. He told me he had nothing to do with developing the MR2 and that it was all done in Japan and that Toyota basically used that rumor to help sell the car.

[@Shadow1986]

I believe it was the AW11 that had his help in development, no?

[@carfarmsocial]

Straight from the horse's mouth then. Interesting

[@jrmotorsports5532]

I love my 93 MR2. Was originally a N/A car, prior owner had done a rev 3 swap, and I just pulled that out and am installing a 2GR. Amazing cars/performance for the money.

[@isaacrivas6372]

I currently have a n/a model mr2 and it’s been nothing but fun. Always puts a smile in my face and others in public

[@Zircon93]

Love my Mk2. Mine is a UK car with a JDM rev3 Turbo on stock internals but running 300hp with support from a Phoenix's Power intercooler. I've owned mine since 2002 and don't ever want to sell it. I was lucky to buy up a lot of rare parts over the past 20 years when they were dirt cheap. Amongst my parts are Ohlins PCV coilovers for the SW20 and Desmond Regamaster wheels, Tom's Racing C7R wheels, front and rear TRD braces, TRD short shift, ARC airbox etc.....

[@s-dubsw2013]

A black sw20 widebody mr2 spider is 1 of the best-looking cars I've ever seen

[@listtamaru]

I think the Toyota MR2 and Nissan Skyline are the most iconic (and possibly customized) cars of the early 2000s audiovisual productions. Two beauties.

[@leodelgado8787]

Thanks for sharing and doing the video. Two’s are not typically given the respect they deserve, they are extremely well built and reliable. I restored/recused a 95 N/A that I bought in California years ago and brought it to Florida. I love that car, it is not fast by todays standards but it is fun and the driving sensation is just unbeatable. Thanks again for the video.

[@mk2mister2]

The SW20 MR2 was more like a Poor Man's Lotus Esprit. Similar in weight, turbo 4 cylinder, rounded wedge shape, mid engined, removable roof, and an overall practical GT car.

[@s.u.6198]

wrong.. mr2 w3

[@mk2mister2]

@@s.u.6198 How do you figure? Maybe you're confusing the Esprit with the Elise? The W30 is the poor man's Elise for sure.

[@JoseVazquez-nx7th]

I have a '93 sw20 hardtop. After 12 years of working on it is finally done. From engine to body and paint. I hope to enjoy it for years to come.

[@nova8747]

Hey man, I'm saving up and planning on picking up an SW20 T-Top this year, has to be turbo and nothing less, any advice or things I should look out for?

[@JoseVazquez-nx7th]

@@nova8747 really hard to find. And if you find one expect to spend some money. Unless you find one that you have to work on. Try to find one that nobody has work on it, original, because sometimes you don't know what they did. One thing be patient and save, because is expensive to fix those cars. I spent about $25,000 on that car and there are some things I would like to still do, about another $5000. If you think you can afford it, get one that has no rust, that's tje most important thing. Otherwise spent some money and get one that someone else already spent the money to fix, you can enjoy it right away. But take care of it because, these car are going to be worth a lot of money, pretty soon. Just like the Supra.

[@nova8747]

@@JoseVazquez-nx7th Hey mate, thanks for the reply! :) I live in Ireland, so prices differ pretty wildly, and they’re fairly hard to come by, yeah. There’s only 3 turbo T-top models for sale at the moment here in the whole country, and they go for about 10-13k Euro, I planned on getting a stock one anyway, so that shouldn’t be a big issue. I do intend to take good care of it, but I also intend to daily it, feel free to call me insane. :P

[@JoseVazquez-nx7th]

@@nova8747 wow, you should get one then, if you can. They are a lot of fun. And no matter what don't let it go. You will regret it. Even if for some reason it goes bad, just leave it in the garage or somewhere covered until you can fix it. I had mine in the garage for years, I mean years, 10 or 11 years. Finally got it done, and it feels go to see it fix. Hope you can get one, and enjoy it.

[@nova8747]

@@JoseVazquez-nx7th I’ll definitely be getting one, that much I can guarantee, will probably be this year too. I’ve no garage as of right now, so a cover will have to do, but I’ll be looking for one in hood nick, so hopefully I can get right to driving her. :) I’ll keep you posted when I’ve got one. :)

[@pedrocaseiro95]

As an owner of a 1991 NA SW20, I gotta say... I'm in love with that car

[@s.u.6198]

love my 3VZ FE TRD Supercharged 3lV6 Mr2 ; best combo and all same production year.. so no problem be a "historical protected car" grade

[@user-qd7ih8zj7b]

One of my favorite cars of all time. 4th one I owned

[@s.u.6198]

love the mr2; never saw a Ferrari with 500.000km ; -D like the mr2

[@Dutch_Fake_Ferrari]

I love my SW20 MR2! I am not saving for a better car but for a better engine to swap. I never think of selling it haha

[@raymondlin8728]

Mr2 were a dime a dozen in high school. My brother in law , and cousin had 1. Some of my co workers had 1, black. Red.

[@jonc2276]

I’ve owned my sw20 1993 since 2017. I love the car but it needs work to repair rust and other body work and paint. I love this platform

[@bananasplease666]

i have a 90 hardtop turbo sw20, with the trd alumi-k wheels. it's somewhat of a unicorn being a japanese import to the us, and i wouldn't trade it for anything.

[@TechnoKid_]

I had one of a kind - a beauty. It was the MKII 2.0 16v T-Top Gti Targa. It had lower suspension and Porshe Carrera Tekno alloy wheels. Dark metallic green. Really something and even Ferrari owners driving by would stare at its beauty. i have never seen any other MR2 like that one.

[@jimsgaragetoys]

So why would you ever get rid of it?

[@TechnoKid_]

@@jimsgaragetoys I was more abroad than at home so had to sell it. A pity I know - mine had no rust and was in impeccable condition and by now would be in demand by collectors.

[@jacksnape6100]

Forgot about the shadows and the 10 year anniversaries. I’ve got one of the Annie’s number 003 of 250

[@wookieechicken5188]

ZZW30 has to be the obvious choice for the next video. Even though I might be a little bit biased because I own one of those myself

[@lioneldm5130]

Love the Trisomie 21 shot. The last dance is a good song.

[@Shadow1986]

the video of the t-top with the front wheel hanging in the air and not in contact with the ground over a driveway is NOT due to softness of the chassis, but rather the rigidity of it! Even the t-tops were great chassis.

[@floridaboiwoody]

I still can't believe the MR2s price has not caught up with it's value and other cars of it's era. The price of the Supra, which I love, has gone astronomical. But for some reason sw20 MR2s have not!!???!!? I have a low milage 92 turbo that my ol man drove 25 years before me. Truly a great car and a great investment right now because surely the rest of the Japanese sports car collecting crowd will realize this any day now!?!?

[@7771ham]

I’m buying a 93 2gr mr2 for 19 this weekend I hope I love it, It’s costing me an arm and leg lol. I would change out your suspension on the 92 tho. Because 91-92 models try to kill You more. But an easy suspension upgrade will set you right. Just don’t want you to lose your baby. 👍🏼 ik a guy who had a 92 was driving in the rain at 40 mph and the car went sideways on him :(

[@floridaboiwoody]

@@7771ham my 92 has, let's say puckered my ahole, more than once. Mostly on like interstate off ramps. I recently bought all new steering replacements parts. And I have replaced the shocks and struts with stock replacements once. But you are right, I think it will be like a whole new car when I finally upgrade the suspension from stock. Btw, congrats on your car, you made a great choice!

[@7771ham]

@@floridaboiwoody hey thanks man, and good to hear your upgrading that suspension bro. Deff want to protect your baby and your self of course haha. But yah once you do that the car will drive so much different. I’d throw a big break kit on it too when you have the time to just to increase it’s stopping power! That’s what I’m planning on doing with mine! 💪🏽

[@floridaboiwoody]

@@7771ham I honestly had not thought about the brakes much. But you are right, I probably should. Thanks

[@KO-sx9uy]

have u seen prices lately?

[@snoozeuloozetv1562]

You didnt mention the rev 5 beams redtop mr2

[@gregoryellis4366]

Ikr the redtop beams is so good, when you hit 4k rpm it just wants to keep going

[@clintmc8285]

The BEAMS is a great driver's engine. The power delivery is linear though the rev range which makes it very fun on the twisty roads. It is the reason I am doing a Redtop beams swap into my 1990 chassis.

[@wairarapagates4857]

I have a rev 5 redtop, 'sonic shadow' hard top, I am replacing the cooling system at the moment, then the suspension, I'm keeping the engine pretty as stock, maybe headers and new exhaust but not much more than that, it's fast enough already, and it looks really nice.

[@clintmc8285]

I have an Eaton M62 supercharger that I am thinking of running on my Redtop. Keeping it under 10psi should be ok though I have heard that the conrods are a bit weak so maybe 8 would be better. I think an SC would suit the power of a BEAMS very well. I do have a CT26 off an ST165 but I have driven a turbo MR2 and I never liked the power delivery much. That is a long way down the track though. My girl came off the road to get a faulty front ball joint fixed and that was two years ago. I just keep going replacing parts. All the suspension now done. New 3 core rad plus all the cooling lines. Fuel pump with all new gaskets. Replaced every nut and bolt under her with new. Brakes upgraded and new brake lines and cables etc etc. And I still haven't got the motor in yet. Some days it feels like it is never going to happen. Small budget with what I can sneak past the wife =) Oh and I am jealous of your rev5!

[@DamfinoMR2]

SW20 is the car to buy right now. It hasn't been cursed by movie fame (aside from Initial D Stage 3) and there's no drift tax. They're going up in value, but not nearly as fast as the A80, FD, AE86 or S chassis cars.

[@7771ham]

I’m buying a 2GR for 19 this weekend. There is probably less then ten thousand mr2’s in American left. So hopefully in the next 10 years they’ll be worth something crazy

[@JohnMcFarlin-ny3eg]

Just picked up a 2GR swapped NA 1991 MR2 with manual steering, rollup windows, no ABS, and a hardtop. A solid move in my opinion.

[@mario_sw20]

bought bout a year ago with the 5sfe for $8700 might of overpaid but it was re painted, no rust, and had the turbo model exterior. currently in the process of k swapping

[@dgatan]

Two-Rarri

[@user-uk5st3od1c]

I am happy the mr2 is not feature in fast and furious if not the value will increase, keepingit lowkey is best cause only mr2 enthusiast will know the true value, joy and true potential of this car. In my opinion mr2 is one of the best toyota car ever produce.

[@olivergust9760]

Little complaint here, for more accuracy, I'd reccomend that you use chassis codes to determine which car your are talking about ex. SW20 MR2, or the JZA80 Supra. Just personal preference, thats all.

[@KX36]

'member when the poor man's Ferrari was a Pontiac Fiero?

[@Shadow1986]

that's the poor man's mr2

[@twinentryturbo]

@@Shadow1986 bwahahahaha

[@luthiervandros]

Miss my metallic blue 1993

[@OYisit]

I always wanted to do a 3.5L v6 conversion to mine but being a very early production model #66 to be exact many people tell me to leave it stock to maintain it's collector value. So at least I have a daily driver that does not depreciate.

[@elongnutz2531]

Do it. But keep the oem things you swap out, if you ever sell it, swap it back. Honestly 2gr mr2 go for just as much

[@DJJ81]

Bro I love MR2s more than Supra’s, but based on the size, layout, and stock stats, MR2 would have never taken over cultural zeitgeist like the Supra did.

[@elongnutz2531]

Let it stay forgotten pls, prices are ridiculous

[@johnbruh7334]

Can you do one on the fox body mustang?

[@hmsilset]

Ferrari is the rich mans MR2 !

[@BlueJDMMR2]

I use one of these automobiles as my daily driver. Stock vs stock my 3rd gen 3sgte 94 mr2 gt-s is faster than the 348tb.

[@carlusdarienus]

should be the Celica GT Four

[@alientitimilk9073]

That would be the pontiac fiero

[@redsunsmr284]

Owned mine for 20 years already. I really wanna kswap!

[@7771ham]

2GR FE swap?

[@icmull]

MR2 was built to race. Supra is a gt. MR2 looks better imo. If it was the hero car I think you are right

[@everettw]

No

[@diestar1]

0:40 and then 2:42

[@pigupigu]

Why can't an mr2 review just not mention ferrari