1989 Toyota MR2: Toyota Ingenuity at its Finest
Here at J & J Auto Wrecking we love the opportunity to provide parts for unique and cult classic automobiles. The Toyota MR2 fits both those descriptions and is one of our favorites. All 3 generations offer quite different experiences, yet the 1st generation, dubbed the W10, is the one that really showed the world how cool Toyota could be. In this article we are going to cover some of the specifics of the 1989 model year (the final year of the 1 generation), accompanied by some of our film and photos from one of our favorite examples from a few years back.
The Toyota MR2, an acronym for "Midship Runabout 2-seater," first entered the automotive scene in 1984 as Toyota's first two-seater sports car. It aimed to provide the excitement of a sports car while offering the reliability and affordability of a Toyota. In essence, the MR2 was part of a wave of affordable, mid-engine sports cars that surfaced during the 1980s.
By 1989, the MR2 had already undergone several refinements from its initial release. It was powered by a mid-mounted 1.6L 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve engine which produced 112 hp in naturally aspirated form and 145 hp in supercharged form, delivering a striking performance that was surprising for its size. This engine was mated to either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic.
What set the 1989 Toyota MR2 apart was its unique design. It sported a compact, angular look which was typical of the 80s aesthetics, with pop-up headlights and a rear spoiler. Despite its compact size, it had ample storage space, making it practical for everyday use.
Its mid-engine layout, where the engine was located behind the driver but ahead of the rear axle, provided excellent balance and weight distribution. This configuration significantly enhanced the vehicle's handling, making it a delight on curvy roads and giving it a driving feel that often compared to more expensive exotic sports cars.
The 1989 MR2 was also well equipped, featuring power windows, power mirrors, air conditioning, and a premium stereo system. It provided both the amenities of a luxury vehicle and the exhilarating ride of a sports car.
The Toyota MR2 became a popular choice among automotive enthusiasts due to its balance of affordability, reliability, and performance. Its mid-engine design and distinctive 80's styling made it stand out among its competitors. Over time, the 1989 Toyota MR2 became a classic, sought-after model, a tribute to a time when affordable, fun sports cars were in their golden age.
Toyota continued to evolve the MR2 model line over the years, with new iterations in the 1990s and early 2000s. However, for many, the original charm and character of the 1989 model have not been surpassed.
With the 1989 MR2, Toyota proved that sports cars could be made accessible to a wider range of people. While it might not have had the most powerful engine or the fastest top speed, the MR2 offered an unmatched combination of affordability, reliability, and performance, making it an icon in its own right. The 1989 Toyota MR2 remains a beloved classic today, remembered for its unique charm and its place in the annals of automotive history.