The Toyota MR2 Spyder: Epic Fun or Epic Fail?

Let's delve into the reasons behind the disappearance of a unique car: the Toyota MR2 Spyder.
Nota Bene: part of my attempt was to dispassionately review a car that I've always been passionate about (all generations of the MR2, but especially the Mk3). I had a ton of info, stats, etc demonstrating why IMHO the Mk3 is a stellar car by all accounts & comparisons, but keeping this video below 10 minutes demanded I gut it - e.g. I don't like how I threw the Mk2 under the bus but edited it as juxtaposition to how drastically different the Mk3 is. Mine is bone-stock and yet there is nothing about the car that disappoints me. I got a lot of crap from naysayers with many telling me I should have saved up for a Porsche Boxster or even a 996. This video was a bit of a middle finger to them, because while they're still saving up I'm actually driving a fantastic car that always gives me joy. "Haters gonna hate", but I didn't buy this car for them - nor their approval.

[@frankbrejcha8928]

I'm in the UK, and had an "old age crisis" , buying a 2003 MR2 with. around 98,000 miles on the clock for £1500. ( around $2000 ) It is chilli red with a removable hard top . Every day I look at it and I see one of the prettiest small cars I've owned, and every time I drive it, it fills this old man with pleasure. I agree with your presentation that this car has the smile factor which in this day and age and for that small outlay, has to be wonderful value. Enjoyed your film , great job !!! p.s. age now 75 :-)

[@LV2PLA]

You got a bloody good deal! That definitely doubles your fun!

[@takz0743]

Pure, honest fun. A street-legal go-kart that you can use as a car to a certain extent. Mine always makes me chuckle.

[@LV2PLA]

"... to a certain extent." I *LOVE* that description! I'm always looking for a great and true turn of phrase like that; it's perfect! Mind if I borrow it?

[@takz0743]

@@LV2PLA Be my guest...

[@Ghost-cp2ps]

Nice pfp

[@leonscheepers5350]

Man, I love mine. So much fun on a road trip ... and much quicker than the average car on the road ;)

[@johnburton7998]

The smile factor is enormous with this car. I love mine

[@mrbigmel3]

mines a 2000 model , love it !

[@taekwondotime]

I've had mine for 10 years now. It's great. Gets the same attention on the road as a McLaren or a Ferrari. I went over 5 years without seeing another one on the road. There is one other person in my city that has one (red). Mine is black, and it's the only one in town. It turns corners into straightaways. While it may not be fast, it's Miata fast, and that was its immediate competition. Look at the Porsche Boxster from 1997 and it's the same acceleration as the MR2 Spyder. Perspective is everything.

[@LV2PLA]

@@mrbigmel3 That's what ours is. No regrets.

[@LV2PLA]

@@taekwondotime We adore ours. We have fun and who cares beyond that, right?

[@mrbigmel3]

@@LV2PLA awesome 0)

[@hughbrackenbury8040]

How times have changed. Back in the early 80s a VW Golf GTI (Rabbit in the US) put out 112 bhp and accelerated slower than the MR2 Spyder that followed it, yet it was the hot hatch performance car to catch. These MR2s reach 60 in under 8 seconds, so may not be ‘fast’ but are still ‘quick’ enough. The handling is sublime and fun factor immense. I love mine

[@hughbrackenbury8040]

Great review. I enjoyed it

[@exutiku]

I'm a New Zealand owner of an MR2 and have now owned the car for 16 years and done well over 100,000km's in it and it hasn't missed a beat. Fabulous little car that costs zip to service and run. I agree with the power aspect and yes a little more would be nice now and then, but the rest of the time (especially on winding roads) 138 horses is more than adequate. What the MR-S loses in the power department it makes up for in the torque department, this amazing little engine produces good torque from as low as 2000rpm which means you don't have to thump it to get productive performance from it and you don't have to keep shifting gears all the time to maintain momentum, you can just leave it in fourth gear and accelerate reasonably briskly from 50 kph to 150 kph. I love the car and I'm amazed by it and its capabilities every time I drive it and it easily leaves an awful lot of more powerful cars for dead on winding roads due to its light weight and excellent handling. So if anyone is considering buying one, do it, you won't regret it.

[@LV2PLA]

Perfectly stated on all points!

[@vincentrigolet9441]

Having an MRS for 12 years now, that's my daily. Really reminds me my S1 Lotus elise, the MRS is less radical and performant, but more usable!

[@LV2PLA]

Thanks for that insight! I've considered various upgrades / modifications, but my stock Spyder is just too much fun AND functional at the same time, so I fear upsetting that balance by tinkering around. If it's not broken, don't fix it!

[@philzvids3577]

I've owned an 04 model for nearly 5 years. Acceleration of under 8 secs really isn't that slow. It can easily hold its own on the road. Very sweet engine, very quiet with the roof down, great handling and later models like mine have a 6-speed gear box. Relatively easy to work on, over 40 miles to the gallon in the summer, bit less in the winter. You can pick one up in the UK for around £2000. What's not to like?

[@ulisesavila2879]

I wish Mrs would he that cheap in Mexico. They are like 7000 pounds

[@CarlosRojas-pe4uz]

I have a 2001 silver MR2 , bought 2 years ago and I can't get enough of it. It's so much fun to drive. I really enjoyed watching your review. Thanks.

[@LV2PLA]

I tried to buy a silver '02 but the seller wouldn't let me take it to an independent mechanic for a PBI. Fail. I think the silver does a great job showing off the lines! Keep enjoying your Spyder!

[@andyhung424able]

I had a 2002 MR2Spyder for about 8 years. Nothing else on the market since compares to how unique and fun that car was. Priced like a Miata, but fun like an Elise. The only mid engine sports car that doesn't break anyone's bank.

[@arlenburgin2392]

Have you seen the prices for them now?! Bank broken..

[@andyhung424able]

@@arlenburgin2392 I haven't. How much are they going for nowadays in the used market? I traded mine in long ago for only $5k at 60k miles. And mine was a pretty nice condition one with TRD chasis braces and TRD Sportivo suspension upgrade and an aftermarket roll bar.

[@arlenburgin2392]

@@andyhung424able I just bought mine for 15k with 57thousand on the speedo

[@andyhung424able]

@@arlenburgin2392 wow....my jaw just dropped. Well, you will love it. It is a fun little car and if you decide to mod it, it is a great project too as mechanically speaking it is a simple car. Easy access to everything.

[@LupinYonderboy]

Just like to remind you all that the Mk3 Mr2 accelerates faster than all other MR2s apart from the SC Mk1 and the Turbo Mk2 and handles far better than both. When people bash the Mk3 they are not comparing like for like base models.

[@LV2PLA]

Check my NB in the updated description. I agree with you. Too many people bash the Mk3 and I just tune them out. I think I left too much of a tip-of-the-hat to their objections in the video, but my intent was to acknowledge their gripes in a tear-down and then finish off on an emotional summit by showing how this truly is a stellar car by any metric. Well... perhaps not storage space, but that's why God created mini-vans!

[@philzvids3577]

The MR2 also accelerates faster than the UK spec MX5 (Miata) of the same age.

[@ariyankhan4337]

I know a guy who has swapped in a 2gr in the mr2 spyder and with 317hp this things literally just flys iam talking high 3 seconds 0-60

[@DGDreference]

I gotta say, I just came across this video on my recommended list and I really enjoy your presentation and editing style. Very well done!

[@LV2PLA]

Thanks. I appreciate that. There was an enormous amount of work invested in this video. Obviously, an enormous amount of fun as well.

[@riversandridgelines342]

Dude...Phenomenal review. Your dialogue was fantastic and I really like the way you switched between a first person narrative and the over-dubbing. Your audio levels were great, too. These important aspects are so often overlooked in videos and I gotta say: as someone who is trying to improve his own video content I really appreciate the work you put in on this. You gave me some ideas about where the dialogue falls short in my videos. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@LV2PLA]

Many thanks. Although I disagree regarding audio levels. The camera I used in-car had no external mic capabilities but the only one I own with image stabilization, so I had to try to crank it up in post. And Final Cut Pro X only let me boost it a certain amount (which annoyed me). My biggest tips for dialogue would be that less is more (you will always want to say 3x what time allows which will cloud your message), and have pace and rhythm to your prose like lyrics to music (Top Gear presenters truly set The Bar for this). In the end, if you are enthusiastic about your material, let it come out in your video!

[@dawnag7526]

I just made a deal on a 2002 Spyder... super excited to get it home! I live in Canada and they are rare here. I have been looking for 2 years and finally had to import from the US.

[@LV2PLA]

I have complete confidence that you will love it.

[@vltruane]

Such an underrated, chassis. These can be built to replicate a Lotus Elise in handling, and performance.

[@LV2PLA]

You just hit what I feel is the reason they only offered the single engine option: why would somebody shell out for an Elise if you could get the same out of a Toyota (with dealerships all over the place)? This was true of VW not offering 4WD on their Jetta/Golf for many years around '10: they didn't want to take market-share away from Audi.

[@DJWenlowe]

Thanks very much, great review. These cars offer absolutely bullet proof reliability with good driving dynamics even now that they are in old age 👍👍

[@longbowdt]

This is still a great little video to watch. A pure and simple roadster in the "drive a slow car fast" tradition of the old British sports cars. I caught myself smiling too! :)

[@LV2PLA]

With the weather improving, I am out in ours again. And smiling more again!

[@standandeliver8376]

I'm currently on my second one. You nailed it - a slow car that feels fast. The most fun cars I've ever driven.

[@theninethrees8044]

This was such an awesome review, made me appreciate my MR-S even more 😊 was such a heavily under appreciated car until very recently. The values are shooting up

[@LV2PLA]

Indeed, prices are rising. Not that we bought ours as a financial investment, but we could easily turn a profit compared to what we bought ours for. But the Smiles Per Gallon? Priceless!

[@aftastosk6016]

It's not slow at all. In real life conditions you can go much faster than an average car and it's not just the feeling but the real speed.

[@LV2PLA]

Check my NB in the updated description. This car is plenty quick, with a power to weight ratio that still keeps it punching above its weight class. In today's horsepower/steroid world it still holds its own in my (and obviously your) opinion.

[@aftastosk6016]

@@LV2PLA this car is one of the fastest cars that exist in narrow twisty B roads

[@slowstartfast2162]

One of the best things to do for a stock one of these is fresh OEM struts, new tires as close to the original size as possible (28psi front) and a 4 wheel alignment. It is amazing what a difference this can make. Change all the fluids ( use the Toyota Red anti freeze) and read the article on Spyder chat about using the Nissan power steering fluid. The production value of your review is excellent. A smooth twisty road and 70 degrees is all it will need.

[@LV2PLA]

I poured through Spyderchat for ages prior to making the purchase; that site is invaluable. I had so much information as a result that I had to edit out a metric butt-load to make the sub-10 minute length. The car drives great as-is, but I'll definitely take your suggestions and do them in the next few months (the alignment I had done the day I got it home).

[@slowstartfast2162]

@T R Here is the link to the test results of the fluids. The Nissan fluid appears to be the most chemically equal to my eyes. www.spyderchat.com/threads/testing-the-oem-toyota-eh-ps-fluid.148522/

[@jon_swal4585]

It's like regular car reviews says. You only get some many laps around the sun, so you might as well do it in the car you love.

[@drewwagar]

One of the best handling cars from factory that you could buy. Need to show it respect when pushing on, but sublime handling.

[@LV2PLA]

So very well said! When we added coilovers to replace the worn-out struts, I needed to relearn the respect all over again! The envelope was the same but the margins became slimmer: you could push to the edge more confidently, but finding that edge comes in a terrifying instant.

[@robc1014]

I have one thats 2ZZ swapped making 200whp. On some bc coilovers and polybushed. LSD and 4.6:1 final drive. Its beyond fun. Drives like a go kart.

[@LV2PLA]

I'd die if I had that setup; way too quick for this old man!

[@robc1014]

@@LV2PLA it is quick but its not immediately breaking the law quick, it just feels its. It drives like it’s on rails. It’s very confidence inspiring.

[@zokusharuuku1091]

There’s no aftermarket exhaust for the spyder that will make it sound like a fart pipe. It’s not a Honda, get the lotus exhaust and it’ll sound exotic while not being too loud. It’s a car that is a perfect platform for modifications, they make serious race cars pretty much out handling anything that’s not a hyper car.

[@AnonymousAndy2]

Spot on review. Feels fast & you can have loads of fun without losing your license. I had an M140i but I prefer my MR2 in every way. It is a 2nd toy car, so practically not an issue. Poor man’s Lotus Elise 😊

[@LV2PLA]

Haven't driven an Elise yet, but absolutely loving the Spyder all the while!

[@RogerBaileyOnCars]

maximum points for fun indeed, I own one and it's a keeper and my friends to this day can't figure out why, ha. - :-) Great review

[@Stratboy999]

I have the same car (r/h drive obviously) and it is wonderful. I have had it for 13 years and never regretted owining it. If something gives you joy like these little roadsters it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.

[@LV2PLA]

Preach on, sir!

[@tonyjones7372]

agree all the way. the most fun, budget car on the road in the UK, I am on my second and will always have one until I can no longer get in it.

[@LV2PLA]

Brilliant! And I admit that getting in it is progressively more difficult - but nowhere near enough for us to sell it!

[@Supraman7777]

Great video! I have a yellow 2001 five speed and I LOVE it.

[@LV2PLA]

I tried to buy a yellow one originally, but the seller said, "This is a beautiful car. I'm in New Mexico," and promptly hung up. I'd started the call saying I was in Utah but would travel down to get the car. I was totally baffled; I was unaware that New Mexico stopped recognizing US dollars as valid currency! So... we found our red one in Colorado two days later and bought it. TL;DR - they look great in yellow!

[@Supraman7777]

@@LV2PLA Thank you 😊 Sorry you dealt with that guy.

[@WolfrCats]

I love that used-track song - 3-19-2021

[@paulsivewright6816]

Had one for 2 months now.I have had cars that impressed others but i got a mr2 spyder cause it looked like fun .As mechanic i always recomend Toyotas.No regrets.

[@LV2PLA]

Absolutely! That's exactly what I was referring to at the end regarding Porsches and BMWs; we bought ours for US and having fun and don't care if other people are impressed with it. So much fun!

[@larsonstichler8827]

Down to earth guy reviewing a car is the most honest opinions you can get. Defiantly going to have to make a purchase for one.

[@LV2PLA]

You'll never regret buying one if you shop smart. I did a ton of research on Spyderchat.com to learn what to look for, and thus far it's paid off in spades. I drive this car almost every day just for the pure joy. Get one!

[@MrAJDurrani]

Beautiful review thanks a lot👍

[@LV2PLA]

Thanks for watching!

[@planet1852]

Great Video! I tink it allways comes down to personal preference. I loved the Miata and the MR2 even more :P Might be the reson why I own one but yeah. I just can agree to the earlier commenters. Yes, the 3rd gen MR2 might be down in power, but only in comparison to cars of other classes. Power wise it even dominates the earlier gens of the MX5 and the handling is unbeatable.

[@cdogvlog5557]

Ok... I guess its not gonna go down well if I was to say for this to be practical for me I'd have to attach a small trailer for the odd thing that needs doing. The car looks bang for buck wise quite good. Although the one I was interested in says it needs a new soft top sounds costly.

[@LV2PLA]

No offense taken - because you are correct! Good points all. It is not a practical car by almost any storage/portage metric. Truly that (and only one engine option) is what killed the car off. They named it well: Midship Runabout 2-seater. It's great for running small errands alone or with one passenger and can be a DD, but it is not a one-car-fits-most solution. It definitely falls at the "Toy" end of the spectrum. Americans usually get too much car for their standard driving mission anyway (large sedans and SUV's with only the driver or perhaps one passenger aboard for 90% of their trips), but that's because owning multiple mission-specific cars is even less practical than buying one big amalgamation. A toy-car is a luxury purchase, pure and simple. A person needs to accept minimal practicality when going in to purchase cars like this. And then there's finding a place to park it. Maintenance. Insurance. Etc...

[@cdogvlog5557]

Other cars that spring to mind that I wouldn't touch with a barge pole, bmw z3 and Mercedes SLK. Maybe they got better boot space. Toyota MRS appeal for me is it looks like you could run it for a similar cost of any other car - being a Toyota. @@LV2PLA

[@LV2PLA]

@@cdogvlog5557 I considered all options and in the end it came close between a Boxster and this car. The price for Toyota oil change and maintenance vs. Porsche oil change and maintenance really helped with my decision. Plus, I've always loved the looks of this car whereas the Boxster is too symmetric in profile to me: you can't tell if it's coming or going.

[@Trixulf]

After 10 years of MR2 Spyder driving, I totally agree with you, LV2PLA.

[@LV2PLA]

After owning ours for 9 months, I can honestly say that I am jealous of you!

[@kogoat2390]

Bought mine when I was 19, 3 years ago. I'm never selling it!

[@wetfloor9992]

Planning to buy 1 for a weekend car or a light drive with my wife. Thanks for the video!

[@philip771]

I hope you've decided to get one? I bought mine 18 months ago, as a second car. It's brilliant! Test drive more than one - there are some duds out there, and also try the MK3 MX5, if only to realise how well the MR2 really does drive.

[@alejandr0031]

@wetfloor99 i bought mine as a weekend car. Now my “daily” has become the weekend car as i drive the mr2 99% of the time 😂. I look for any excuse to drive this thing.

[@seanjameson3544]

Excellent review.

[@trentonhryndej8205]

That's why I loved my del sol si more than my stealth turbo! It was more fun that I got to drive my slow car fast cause I could get to way past in town speed limits in 1st gear in the Stealth

[@mr2bmw]

Excellent video!!!

[@kila_whale]

Epic review, thanks mate.

[@vossler360]

A seven second zero to 60 run was pretty respectable back in this car's day for its segment, although I doubt that the thin mountain air is helping your car's performance. Although my weekend toy is an NB Miata, I still think that the MR2 Spyder was a great alternative.

[@LV2PLA]

I agree completely. After recording and during editing I saw that I was basically unfairly comparing it to modern cars that are quicker (but only slightly). It's still relatively quick by today's standards.

[@mr2spyderchronicles287]

This cat should have been offered with the optional 2zz engine. I believe the outcome would be different.

[@LV2PLA]

I agree 100%. Some of the footage I had to edit out (time constraints) addressed this directly.

[@halililkman4477]

toyota selling 2zz for lotus at that time so ı gues thats the reson why they dont do it but its just my opinion :)

[@cristianseminario7899]

if they put a 2zz in this lotus would be dead to this day

[@stewarty1967]

You can have the best of both worlds - my Spyder (Roadster here in the UK), plus a Garret GTX2860RS makes 270HP. Takes the car to 60 in less than 4 seconds. Makes that grin just a little wider....Great review.....

[@LV2PLA]

"...grin a little wider..."? Um, I'd say at those numbers it's stretched your face to the back of your head! So many upgrade options for this platform - yet more info that I had to edit out for time. Sounds like you've got a beast, for sure!

[@szybkiantek5632]

Nothing strange... mr2 weights nothing!

[@cristianseminario7899]

@RHDrivingSlovenia but do you actually care about those laws? if you can't see it it's legal

[@Radio4ManLeics]

An honest review - rare but welcome. 👍

[@nobetternickname]

great review and perfectly captures why the mr2 is so appealing to anyone who has driven one 😁 of course, the day will come where snap oversteer will inevitably happen and ruin the fun a little but if you're lucky you'll just end up going backwards into a tree... like I did 🤣

[@LV2PLA]

You make me sad with backwards-tree-hugging story! NO!! Much sadness! (I assume you're ok).

[@robbierobinson394]

Great review. Everything is true what you say. Haven't had mine long but I won't part with this one.

[@LV2PLA]

Such a simple yet utterly joyful car. The longer you own it, the more you'll love it!

[@solcasared]

Yep my yellow 2001 I just so much fun

[@markcarter3617]

Totally adore my mk3 . Yeah it’s outperformed by loads of others but I don’t care, it’s a great place to be. It puts a smile on my face and that’ll do for me 👍

[@LV2PLA]

Too right!

[@alca4340]

enjoyed your review and i ask...what about the precat issues...is it a deal breaker?..thanks

[@LV2PLA]

It shouldn't be - unless you find one for sale that shows worn precats. Then you should deduct the cost of a replacement engine from your offer. Always get a pre-buy inspection (PBI) on any used vehicle, but for the Spyder precats are an added unique thing to tell the mechanic to look at. They pull the O2 sensors to look; very quick and easy. Ours were fine when we bought our Spyder but it was always in the back of my mind, so we "deleted" them by replacing the exhaust manifold with a quality aftermarket one (PPE brand). I hope this helps!

[@AndyJames88]

Any link to that manifold? Thanks!

[@jy4488]

excelente video amo mi toyota spyder 2006 no lo pienso vender nunca y para correr tengo mi Mustang GT saludos desde Mexico

[@LV2PLA]

Muchas gracias! Disfruta de ambos autos!

[@joelor7810]

Great review! Really amazing footage! It would have been great as well if you included the similarities to the Lotus Elise and the possiblity of swapping in the 2zzge, which really brings out the best of it.

[@LV2PLA]

I agree with you completely re: additional info. The issue was that I wanted to keep this under 10 minutes and as a result left easily 60% of my knowledge and research out. Example: I pretty much eviscerated the Mk2 even though I think it's a great car... but to show the evolution & backstory while leaving enough time for an actual review of the Mk3 left me few options.

[@Thefrostedslime]

Car is terrible for groceries. No storage space. However, it's a very light weight and fun car. "nO pOwEr, It'S bAd" (I saw someone in the comments say), which people ALWAYS say about cars that aren't meant to be super fast. Just fast enough to have fun in. These are great cars, and if you REALLY want power, the 2ZZ is a common swap. Lots of kits for it.

[@darrenlucas2768]

Nice work. But in all fairness....it's not what I'd call slow. Ok.....it's not a Ferrari, but give it a twisty road and someone who knows how to change gear when it's needed and I would bet that this car would pull away Just on ease of balance and throw ability. Ive only ever had a mark 1 MR2 but that genuinely felt like it would out handle anything....and even today I would still rate it as the fastest back road car I've ever driven. This I guess Is just the same. Not slow, but no hyper car.... And who can use that kind of power anyway. I think no storage was this cars fall from grace killer move..bad mistake but you can see what they were trying to do at Toyota. They can be tuned quite nicely and cheaply to free up a few extra ponnies....bin the pre cats seems a popular move. Over here in the UK they are so cheap to buy it's hard to ignore them. Keep up the good work.👍🌈

[@LV2PLA]

Spot on with all of your comments. I agree with every single one - from 'not really slow' to 'who can use all that power' to 'lack of storage killed this car'.

[@zokusharuuku1091]

I out ran a state trooper in a Dodge Charger in my modified mr2 spyder with the stock 1zz. They aren’t slow.

[@Zeriel00]

Now drop 5K on the engine and a turbo kit and start taking names. 300-350HP on a 2K lb car is face melting on the street.

[@LV2PLA]

I would poop my pants with that much power-to-weight at my disposal!

[@tizmon]

It really was the reputation that this car was a tail happy widow maker they never went away. The first gen did have that tendency but gotten better as Toyota worked on it. With enough 86 access, it could make a come back as the last gasoline driven version. I am really hoping.

[@randymaizland9662]

Where was this video made. Beautiful scenery.

[@LV2PLA]

All filmed within 30 miles of my home in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. The scenery is pretty spectacular. I've lived all over the planet, but every day for over a decade now, I walk out my door and go "Wow!"

[@jeff5333g]

Mike, your the bomb! (NSA please disregard that word)

[@alejandr0031]

Great review. These things wernt meant to be fast but they sure were meant to be fun! Ive owned many cars way faster than this car but i find myself wanting to drive this more than i ever did any other car. Mine now has a 2zz engine and a 6spd and oh my lord is it even more fun! This is the only car that i have ever felt like i dont need to replace.

[@LV2PLA]

The more I drive it, the more I long to drive it more!

[@Wheelnut78]

I have a mint one in red like the vid, I love it too and have also bought a low km Celica to swap engines with (Ill keep the Celica as my daily)

[@ariyankhan4337]

And i know a guy who has swapped in a 2gr in the mr2 spyder and with 317hp this things literally flys iam talking high 3 second 0-60 high

[@AnythingEvil78]

It's not that slow, off the mark it hooks up well due to the engine being over the rear wheels. Also around a track I had a mildly modified one keep up with me in my Audi TT RS

[@LV2PLA]

Slow is a subjective term and a matter of opinion; my opinion matches yours, honestly. But I didn't want people thinking these were melt-your-face-off fast, and was unfairly comparing it to more modern machines that actually feel that way.

[@theguywhorarelylies5454]

Got one in my cross hairs...80k miles... hope I get it. Way back when I was a teenager 2003 we used to steal my friends moms Mr2 at night and go joyriding...I thought it was so fast! lol

[@davidagcole]

It doesn't have the presence or power of an SW20 turbo but it handles like no other MR2 and is a lot of fun to drive (I say that as an owner of both) It does need a decent body kit too to make it look the part 😉

[@LV2PLA]

Check my NB in the updated description. I agree with you, and also dig how many options there are to personalize the Mk3 with body kits (yet to see one that I truly dislike). Even stock like mine, this car is fantastic!

[@gyyzerdrips4308]

I almost cried at the end

[@LV2PLA]

For what it's worth, the slip of paper at the end is out of a fortune cookie. My father handed it to me almost 30 years ago - and never said a word. He always talked about it but never bought a convertible. He passed away last year, and that car - and this video - are in homage to him.

[@wetfloor9992]

@@LV2PLA damn. Lost my dad last year too

[@ninjashidan]

Had mine for 5 years. Looking to get a second one. Best car.

[@bobbysworldrox]

Selling one in red for 10k. 5 speed manual 197k miles. Runs great

[@Fidelitye]

@@bobbysworldrox where you from man. Been looking at these cars for while now

[@bobbysworldrox]

@@Fidelitye los angeles

[@MrBhart2408]

0 to 60 in 7 seconds… not fast but you’re saying lethargic? No, that’s not lethargic!😏

[@LV2PLA]

Not at all for when the car was built, I agree. But too many people try to compare performance and numbers with today's vehicles; I chose to lean in that direction before I got flamed for calling a +5second dash "quick". I was also trying to throw a little humor in at that point.

[@lassydogpie5390]

Best sub 5k you will drive

[@LV2PLA]

If you can find them at that price these days! Even the abused ones are going for north of that mark.

[@Dreamweaver94]

I've owned a really well spec'd 2001 NB Miata for nearly 10 years and the mr2 is much more fun and unique. It's also better for taller people and way more reliable in my experience. Plus, if you're willing to sell your good running 1ZZFE, you can swap in a 8,200rpm 2ZZGE for ~$2500, and that's with paying $1900 for the 2zz and selling the 1zz for $1000. Also, it's not thaaat slow with the 1zz.

[@LV2PLA]

I agree that it's not slow. In fact, I'm glad it is not faster else I'd get in serious trouble. Honestly, to save the car they should have given an option/model with the 2ZZ in it, but I guess that's called the Lotus!

[@jorgearturozentlechavez1206]

Me encantó el vídeo ... Con comentarios muy acertados yo soy el orgulloso dueño de un MR2 "2006"

[@LV2PLA]

Gracias por el cumplido!

[@mikeangel701]

Hello everyone,, I own a 2003 spider 5 speed black paint and it only has 31000 miles and I was thinking of selling it but the mo I think about it I think I should keep it for the reason that they are collectible cars , any car specialists out there have an idea if this car is really worth keeping , do u think it will be a valuable car in more time to come?? I appreciate anyone’s time for a reply, thank you

[@LV2PLA]

The specs you've listed mean you've got a cherry on your hands, but from my searching over the past 18 months you're looking at similar spec listed at $15k, give or take a grand. (There was an '05 ~40K miles listed for $15k here in Utah, and it took a few weeks to sell). Keep it because you enjoy it, not as an investment. That's my opinion!

[@mikeangel701]

LV2PLA thanks buddy,, Ive only had it in my posesión for one month and every time I drive it , “ which is only on the weekends & in around the area “ I lean more into keeping it, it is fun to drive I will say , stay safe buddy ....

[@Wheelnut78]

I bought my 03 6 speed for $16K Aussie dollars in Feb this year (52K km). I don't think it will go up much in value but remain about the same if looked after.

[@rj8954]

Why do you want to sell it after only having it for a month?

[@mikeangel701]

@@rj8954 well I bought it to sell it, never wanted to keep it because it’s hard for me to get into and out of and really the car is not for my likings , it’s fun to drive but for me that where the excitement ends for me. So any offers from anyone reading let me know

[@devisissy1]

Epic fun!

[@bastiaanstapelberg9018]

Fun

[@takz0743]

Epic fun epic road-legal go-kart.

[@LV2PLA]

I second that description!

[@bryanbeatz]

Good video however bad mixing between vocal and music. Was hard to hear you over the music at points

[@LV2PLA]

KZbin strikes again: you just confirmed my observation that somehow the audio levels get adjusted during/after upload. I've noticed this on several of my videos and I'm still trying to figure out the Secret Sauce to ensure the finished product I have on my computer is what the public gets to see/hear. I actually dropped the music -12dB and boosted voice +12dB for this re-uploaded version. It's annoying, yet a challenge. But I get what I pay for, right?

[@Ryosaeba8]

2000-05 MR2. It is like an Initial D AE86, Base on training the skills.

[@LA6UOA]

«I feel like I’m ripping’ around like the Stig on track! And I’m basically doing the speed limit!» My experience to. MR2, puts a smile on your face! I drove a McLaren 570S Spider once. It was just like driving my MR2 MK3 (Without the huge powers!) My penis is long enough. I don't need a McLaren to have fun!

[@LV2PLA]

That made me laugh out loud for sure!

[@elobiretv]

Making it a convertible with terrible storage space is what killed it. Mr2 fans thought it looked like a hairdressers car so didn't buy it and anyone that wanted a practical 2 seater stayed away.

[@mindcreator7663]

If you put in this car another 200 hp would be a porche gt2rs... terrible things to think about it..

[@LV2PLA]

Honestly, I think it only needs an additional 80hp and 50 lb-ft of torque to get it to "Ridiculous" level!

[@projectzed5766]

@@LV2PLA I bought mine as a cheap runaround while i was fixing my other car, I've had it 4 years now and i'm in the process of putting a K20 in. I love this car.

[@LV2PLA]

@@projectzed5766 That's what I'd like to do, but I'm not the handy-guy who has things work after tinkering with them. I'm the guy who tinkers and basically creates double the work for whomever ends up doing it correctly. And I don't know a shop that I'd bring it to to perform the swap nor have friends who could "help" me. I'm jealous. Let me know how it turns out!

[@judge831]

If they make the mk.4 MR2, I sure hope it's electric...if not that, it better be under 2800 lbs and be powered by a 2GR-FSE 2.5L V6 or be less than 2600 lbs and be powered by the 2AZ-FE 2.4L.

[@LV2PLA]

My guess is they'd go electric and try to create a new niche in the market. I'm also guessing they wouldn't make it a convertible either. It's all wishful speculation at this point. But fun!

[@standandeliver8376]

It would never be powered by a 2.5 litre V6 for a whole host of reasons. Too thirsty, too heavy, too expensive, poor green credentials etc. It would probably upset the balance of the car too. It just wouldn't work from a marketing point of view in a car that's supposed to be cheap and lightweight.

[@nigelmccure6640]

it really sucks big time for me that the Toyota MR2 Spyder wasn't even available here in my Country Canada but now I just can definitely inport them out of Japan right now instead so I can definitely now buy myself a Toyota MR2 Spyder if I really wanted to so too a very small degree it kinda sucks for me at frist glance but now it really doesn't suck all that much for me now people because ya here in Canada I'm definitely allowed to buy it from Japan right now people

[@LV2PLA]

There are quite a few Spyder owners in Canada; you'll see them posting on Spyderchat quite often!

[@menguardingtheirownwallets6791]

Here is a nice one for $16,200 in Quebec: www.autotrader.ca/a/toyota/mr2%20spyder/val-d'or/quebec/19_11882396_/?showcpo=ShowCpo&ncse=no&orup=5_5_5&pc=N5A%201A2&sprx=-1

[@kevinburchmore1634]

Import from the USA

[@KarfontaAlec]

The mr2 will have its day

[@LV2PLA]

I have my day - every day I drive it!

[@weareallbeingwatched4602]

Why did it fail? McPherson strut on all four corners. Should have been a wishbone system.

[@funtimesatbeaverfalls]

Nah, still kicks ass without it.

[@weareallbeingwatched4602]

@@funtimesatbeaverfalls the camber adjustment top link system off the celica wrc would probably be a good upgrade. On all four corners. Until the bushes wear...

[@weareallbeingwatched4602]

@@funtimesatbeaverfalls look up "superstrut" and "camber control arm".

[@weareallbeingwatched4602]

In theory it would be possible to design a lower wishbone kit and third party camber controlled knuckles for any macpherson strut vehicle. This would be a totally viable addition for any engine swap kit which goes after the engine mounts. Such a system could be designed as a skid plate / diffuser.

[@gsk5161]

@@twhalen exactly

[@JTMUSICCHANNEL]

If you want to go fast so do an engine swap to a k20 who tf needs a dodge

[@LV2PLA]

I assure you that should my motor give up the ghost, it's a k20 that's going in. I've already priced it all out, in fact!

[@gozacarparts8960]

Good video, but felt like an American trying to understand a European car. The 0-60 is good for the price and the handling makes up for it. It's not a muscle car.

[@LV2PLA]

Richard Hammond so eloquently put it while listening to tires squealing from extreme understeer: "That's the sound of automotive disappointment." Too right, Hamster! That's why I've never owned an American car in my life - unlike him, ironically.

[@rogue5643]

Driving a slow car fast or being able to use all the power all the time is a lot more fun than a fast car that you never get to use all the power any time. That's what puts the fun factor and smiles on my face !!!!!!

[@mikeangel701]

I will be putting up my 04 spider for sale with 31000 miles on it , if anyone interested message me back,, the car is black and it’s a beauty!!

[@adrianmedrano9719]

What state are you in?

[@LV2PLA]

I charge a 3% commission for all sales resulting from my work. ;)

[@mikeangel701]

@@adrianmedrano9719 California

[@adrianmedrano9719]

@@mikeangel701 lemme get your email or any social media to get some more info

[@stevenmorales841]

LV2PLA how much will you be selling it for ?

[@tomekkat6081]

Swap 2zz P&P

[@LV2PLA]

Ah yes, the big upgrade question: 2ZZ or a k-swap? Two distinctly different yet equally outstanding options. I personally like an engine that gives low-end torque, which obviously points to the k-swap. But I agree the 2ZZ is far more plug-and-play considering the Spyder have been offered with it as an option to begin with! But that would have taken market share away from Lotus in the same way that VW refused to offer AWD sedans for years to preserve Audi market share. I'm still having a blast with the 1ZZ though.

[@raymond9009]

@RHDrivingSlovenia Sounds nice though wouldnt be as well balanced as a 2zz

[@Mexxx65]

EPIC FAIL..... ALL other Roadsters mentioned here, have decent luggage space TOYOTA: Luggage space in our little Midship Runabout 2 Seater? TOYOTA: NO

[@LV2PLA]

I hear the Camry has lots of luggage space. Or if that is your qualifying characteristic for a fun vehicle, grab a Sienna. Conversely, you could learn to not overpack. But I do appreciate your opinion!

[@Mexxx65]

No not at all! I love the little MR2! My comment only tries to answer the age old question with this Toyota model, Why didn't it sell. compared to its competitors at the time?

[@LV2PLA]

@@Mexxx65 My opinion on it not selling is the single option (in the US) for engine. Even though we only got the most powerful option, I think if they'd given something like a 160hp motor option in addition to the 1ZZ's 138hp, this car would have fared far better. It's still a blast to me at 138hp, though!

[@dachanist]

7s 0-60 isn't fast but it's fast in a corner

[@LV2PLA]

Too right! Fast through the corners is why I bought it! The 0-60 is plenty for me (but I had to make a joke to lighten the serious mood of the video at that point).

[@kaziofr]

MR2 Spyder is born to be swapped and supercharged ! :D

[@Pete80229]

0-30, though. I drove mine in the city back in 2001 and nothing but a Tesla or similar $70k+ model could touch it. Still fun until the engine blows up on you.

[@dachanist]

@@Pete80229 Did yours blow? What happened?

[@Pete80229]

@@dachanist Drove it from Denver to St Louis with no oil. Idiot light never came on, and this idiot was short an engine just a few miles short of city limits.

[@menguardingtheirownwallets6791]

NO TRUNK, and no power! That's why. The previous two designs had small trunks in the rear and Toyota sold a huge number of them. Without the trunk, there was no practicality, thus no buyers. If Toyota used the larger Camry 2.5L engine, sales would have been 3 times what they were.

[@LV2PLA]

I agree. But recall this was the smallest of "The Three Brothers". Putting that engine in this would have eaten into Celica market share, and might have nibbled a tad at the Supra's as well. To say nothing of Lotus.

[@strifu808]

Never could’ve said it any better.

[@420van01]

Exceleration...Largathic? It looks like you're driving a car like someone's grandmother would do. I've hit 140km/hr in 4th gear. You need driving lessons mate.

[@LV2PLA]

I've had cars that reach 100km/hr in gear, mate. Shall we continue measuring our male-members, or just enjoy being fellow petrol-heads? My point was that the Spyder is not face-melting fast. And by the way, the terms are, "Acceleration" and "Lethargic". You need an education, mate. I'd suggest you perform a spell check before you try to troll someone.

[@abramo351ierardo7]

Sorry Park it beside a nb MX5 and it looks like a Russian larda

[@zokusharuuku1091]

Stock sure, modified is a completely different story

[@izzy031096]

Hahaha this is so far from the truth it’s hilarious. These are faster 0-60 due to being nearly 200kg lighter. And had the better slalom and braking times. Also far cheaper and easier to seriously mod in the form of chucking in a 2zz.

[@gajiraanorimaki]

in past i had a Silvia and driven Alfa Romeo GTV-spider : surprised for his very good handling (multilinks at rear suspensions)

[@gajiraanorimaki]

instead this MR(same as last Celica) is a very economic car, how his interior show so much..