Toyota MR2 (1985)Herjazz at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Toyota MR2 AW11

1985 — Japan

Malaise Era (1975-1985)Sports CarJapaneseMid EngineUnder $50k ClassicsAffordable CollectiblesBarn Find CandidatesJDM Legends
Engine1,587 cc Inline-4 DOHC
Power112 hp
Torque110 lb-ft
Transmission5-speed manual
DrivetrainMR
Body StyleCoupe
Weight2,149 lbs
0–60 mph8.1 sec
Top Speed121 mph
Production166,104 units
Original MSRP$9,998
BrakesDisc / Disc
SuspensionIndependent, MacPherson strut / Independent, MacPherson strut

Toyota MR2 AW11

Toyota's AW11 MR2 revolutionized the affordable sports car segment by packaging a mid-mounted engine in a lightweight, compact chassis. Using the proven 4A-GE twin-cam engine from the AE86, the MR2 delivered exceptional handling balance and driving enjoyment at a fraction of exotic car prices. The wedge-shaped design by Akio Yoshida became iconic, and the car's nimble nature made it a favorite among enthusiasts and autocross competitors worldwide.

$8,000 – $25,000

Check for rust in rear strut towers and battery area. Verify timing belt service history. Supercharged models command premium. Avoid examples with snap-oversteer accident history.

First mid-engine production car from Japan. Later supercharged version added in 1988. T-top option available from 1987.