Highlights

Sensitively restored to return it to as original a state as possible
Off the road and dry-stored from 2006 until recommissioning in 2024
Comprehensive mechanical overhaul including clutch, cambelt, brakes, bushes, and suspension
T-Bar with good seals, no apparent signs of water ingress or leaks of any sort
Desirable factory-installed Kouki tail lights which not all MR-2s benefit from

The Appeal

Decades after release, the MR2 is still celebrated globally as one of the most dynamic, rewarding driver's cars of its era - certainly one of the most characterful to roll off a Japanese production line. This is the sort of car that garners a lot of fervour, and you'll hear a lot of opinions - but we'd argue the MK2 iteration is the best all-rounder in the class.

The MK2 underwent several revisions, and this one - the 3rd Revision - brought upgrades and improvements that made the car all the more rewarding. They're a fabulous, fun and exciting sports car, and show no signs of losing their appeal.

This 1996 example was purchased in 2024 having been off the road and dry-stored since 2006. It subsequently underwent an extensive yet sensitive restoration with the aim of returning it to as original a condition as possible. The mechanical work has been thorough, and the cosmetic presentation has been carefully addressed with refurbished alloy wheels and a two-stage polish with ceramic coating.

The car comes with extensive paperwork and service history, a current MOT, and the original spare wheel. It has an low indicated mileage of 63,114 which is believed to be accurate.

Key Information

Mileage: 63,114 miles (indicated, believed to be correct)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until October 2026
Technical specs: 2.0-litre petrol, five-speed manual
Paperwork: Extensive paperwork and service history included

The Detail

Purchased in 2024 having been off the road and dry-stored since 2006
Mechanical and engine service carried out, including all fluids and filters
Fuel tank stripped and repainted after removal of degraded fuel
Clutch kit replaced
Cambelt and water pump replaced
Coil pack and igniter replaced
All lines replaced
All bushes replaced
Brake calipers refurbished and repainted
Brake discs and pads replaced
Suspension serviced and inserts replaced
Alloy wheels refurbished and repainted
Two-stage polish and ceramic coating applied to paintwork
Original spare wheel included
Dry stored and covered throughout current ownership
Driven regularly and described by the vendor as being in factory-standard mechanical condition
Underside looks in fine order
The vendor describes the interior as original, including tape/CD player
Leather upholstery appears plush and comfortable, with gentle creasing
All instruments reported to work as expected
One notable scratch above the left rear wheel arch
Small filled chip in the windscreen
Small grounding issue in one door speaker's wiring causing a whining sound, though this is likely a relatively easy fix

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.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.