1985–89 Toyota MR2 Mark I

by Marit Anne Peterson

A duck on the outside, a swan underneath.

1984 marked the debut of the Toyota “Mid-engine runabout two-seater,” or “MR2,” in Japan. Less than a year later, it arrived on American shores amid enthusiasm and debate. Based on a prototype called the SV3, the short, lightweight, angular car found a comfortable seat in the Toyota model lineup. It was a sporty offering, supported by the consistency and reliability Toyota was known for. There is some suggestion that the SV3 prototype was based on the Lotus X100, a design that was abandoned before it was ever produced. Lotus and Toyota were working together during the development of the MR2, and the truth or falsehood of this rumor is a source of great curiosity among MR2 (and Lotus) enthusiasts. But what is sports car development without the suggestion of a little scandal? Regardless, the MR2 Mark I (’84-’89) sold well, with decent performance and a lack of mechanical hassles. In terms of styling, the MR2 Mark I is an ugly duckling. (The Mark II, ’90-’95,...