Highlights
- Only 33,616 documented miles from new
- Very original car including dealer plates, stickers and key fobs
- Remained in same family for most of its life then enthusiast owned
- Desirable standard T-Bar car with reliable 3S-GE 160bhp 2L engine
- Well kept car with recent cavity wax treated
- Recent service and work to brakes including rear caliper rebuild
- MOT to April 2025
The Appeal
The first generation MR2 took its cues from the Fiat X1/9, the second owed a lot to Panther’s still-born Solo project. It blended sleek mid-engined aesthetics with an appealing blend of sporting and GT capabilities. That it was reliable too - after all it was a Toyota - gave it a head start against many of its European rivals.
There were few cars quite like it, which perhaps explains why so many have been modified or driven into the ground. Not this one. It is the desirable European-specification GT-I T-Bar and has covered less than 34,000 miles, most of it in the hands of the same family. Thankfully it is exactly as it left the dealership in August 1991. That includes the original dealer plates, window stickers and key fobs.
As you might expect of such a low mileage car, it is in quite remarkable timewarp condition. Close inspection of the photos of the white exterior and black leather cabin reveals few signs of its 33 years.
Adding to its appeal is a long MOT, recent service - in July 2024 - and work to the brakes and calipers just a few months ago.
The vendor writes:
“It is a Toyota enthusiast’s dream car, to be kept in careful storage or used in fair weather for enjoyment. I admired the car as a fabulous example and its condition is quite special.”
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 1st August 1991
- Reportedly bought new as a retirement treat
- Remained in same family for most of its life through various keepers
- Previous and current keepers are Toyota enthusiasts
- Seven registered keepers from new
- Complete set of factory handbooks and wallet as shown in good condition
- Factory key fobs
- Toyota sales brochure
- MOT to 3rd April 2025 with one minor advisory for battery tray
- 32,429 miles showing on last MOT and now on 33,616 miles
- Last service in late July 2024 at 33,320 miles
- Rear brake calipers rebuilt and two tyres in April 2024
- Cavity wax treatment in November 2021
- Retains supplying dealer livery, number plates, rear window sticker, and key fobs
- Distinctive private plate included in sale
The Condition
- Original, unrestored and unmodified T-Bar car in very good condition
- Few signs of age or use to paintwork but buyers should be realistic due to originality
- Vendor advises that there is a small mark on the bonnet and one on the rear valance
- Bodywork presents well with straight panels and well kept arches, sills and underside
- Underside cavity wax treated in November 2021 and remains in very good order
- No structural advisories on current MOT
- Five spoke factory alloy wheels in very good order with few marks
- Toyo Proxes tyres in good condition with two replaced in April 2024
- Exterior fittings in good order with clear light lenses and good trim fittings
- Glass removable targa roof panels in good condition with well kept rubber seals
- Roof hood bags and sunshades included in sale
- Black leather interior very good order with little wear even to high-traffic areas
- Driver’s seat bolster shows very light wear and slight sheen but not significant
- Factory-fitted CD player and radio
- Well kept interior switchgear, carpets, door cards and trim with few signs of use
The Mechanics
- Well regarded, very reliable 1,998cc naturally aspirated 3S-GE 4cyl engine
- European specification car with 160bhp output
- 5spd manual gearbox
- Standard factory European specification car with no upgrades
- The vendor states that it drives flawlessly
- No mechanical or running gear advisories on current MOT
- There is a minor advisory for the battery tray that appears easy to remedy
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..
