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Supercharged Project: 1988 Toyota MR2

The Toyota MR2 has long been an enthusiast favorite across multiple generations, but like most iconic cars, the first-generation models tend to be the most sought-after. This particular example is a 1988 model equipped with the rare supercharged version of the mid-engined four-cylinder and is made even more unusual for remaining in seemingly bone-stock condition. Like so many other enthusiast cars, the downside to buying one second or third-hand is that you’re spending time either trying to understand or undo entirely the previous owner’s modifications. Thankfully, this supercharged MR2 appears to have been used more like a daily driver than anything else, and it’s listed here on eBay where bidding has reached $4,900.

The MR2 came in naturally-aspirated and supercharged form, with the majority of them falling into the former category. The A11 chassis has always been looked upon favorably by collectors, but I wouldn’t call it necessarily sought-after. There’s no good reason for this, as they were strong performers out of the box and lithe handlers, but it did seem for a time that it wasn’t exactly hard to find a N/A model. The S/C cars have typically been available in much more limited quantities, making a good one a true needle in a haystack find these days once you weed out the poorly modified or rusted-out examples. This example is made rarer still owing to its hard-to-find Ice Blue Pearl paint job that appears to be in good shape.

The interior is a shadow of its former self, but you can see how when it was new, this had to be a stunner. And really, this MR2 was likely as loaded up as it got in 1988, what with the supercharged engine and leather buckets. The MR2 will need restoration in some major areas like the cabin and the exterior paint, but those are pretty cut-and-dry as it relates to what needs to be done. At present, the seller is using the MR2 on occasion and notes that it’s a blast to drive, and that’s the best part where – you can keep using this two-seater as the weather improves while tackling some deferred maintenance and the interior refresh.

The seller has also proactively addressed some outstanding maintenance needs, including an engine reseal and fresh clutch. That said, there’s still some blue smoke at first startup after sitting and the seller suspects the valve seals are in need of replacing. There’s also some oil buildup around the bottom of the engine near the pan, so despite the re-seal, you’re still not going to find a completely leak-free engine. The listing points out that mileage is plenty high, clocking in around 250,000, and that some of the suspension components are likely in need of replacing. Still, unmodified MR2s are hard to find, and the supercharged model even more so.

Comments

  1. Claudio

    This is a street legal gokart , these are so much fun to drive
    I did and have owned 2 last generation models and really enjoyed them
    In my case , i wanted more power and got a boxster but am thinking of finding another 1 and spending $$ on an engine upgrade

    Like 6
  2. mike

    MR2’s were fun. The S/C ones were a different beast. Louder, faster and just a touch dangerous. Supercharged MR2s are the needle in the haystack worth looking for.

    Like 9
  3. Howie Mueler

    250,000 miles!!

    Like 1
    • Motorsport Whse

      a well taken care of Toyota

      Like 1
  4. Terry

    A guy I worked with is building a MR2, has a 5k custom billit trans, 1000+hp motor, custom built axle shafts, cage, just the best of everything. He had a Acura that was tuned to over 1000hp with all the best parts but with mismatched body panels, it looked a little rough until you saw the gigantic intercooler hanging down under the bumper. It ran eights in the quarter, he said the MR2 should be in the sevens. Ho Lee Chit, they can make those four bangers run. He had a brand new Kawasaki Zx14? Pulled the motor, the best of everything again, turbo, extended swing arm, frame mods, etc. Over 15k in mods plus the cost of the bike, rode it a total of under 200 miles and sold it. He said it scared the 💩out of him and he knew he would die on it.

    Like 1
  5. t-bone BOB

    Located in:
    Tucson, Arizona

    Like 0
  6. chrlsful

    “…naturally-aspirated and supercharged form…” Am in backwards mode. Just bought a ’92 & am in the research mode (stead of other way around). For the price it was worth it.
    I believe U left out ‘turboed” Jeff. There’s so much room in this 1 that’s probably what we will do…

    Less than an X 1 / 9, lotus, etc I ‘just went for it’ to try some auto-crossing again…Will get in shape for that B4 the turbo.
    Best Luck to buyer/seller.

    Like 0
  7. t-bone BOB

    Ended: Feb 03, 2022 , 6:45PM
    Winning bid:US $7,900.00
    [ 48 bids ]

    Like 0
  8. Stevieg

    If I could wedge my fat a$$ in it, this could be a LOT of fun!

    Like 0
  9. Claudio

    Ahah, in my case , the issue was not the size but the bending and twisting to get in and out with a faulty back
    But
    The fun of a street legal gokart is PRICELESS

    Like 0

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