OG Elise- 1986 Toyota MR2 2ZZ-GE Swap

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First generation AW11 Toyota MR2’s used to be a common sight on  the road, but in 2018 they are rarely seen (east coast observation).  The folded paper wedge styling is more distinctive now now that cars have window sills up to your ears.  Nothing says 1980’s like a set of pop up headlights.  The original 4 cylinder 4A-GE was a hell of an engine back in the day as normal and most exotic cars from this era could not sniff a 7500 rpm redline.  Today’s car has a resto-mod 2ZZ-GE 4 cylinder and 6 speed trans swap into it to liven things up.  This engine was fitted in the much lauded Lotus Elise and revs to a motorcycle like 8600 rpms while making the better part of 190 hp depending on the level of tune.  Find this 1986 Toyota MR2 for sale in Glens Falls, NY for $6,500 via craigslist.

From the seller:

After 4 years of ownership its time to sell my first MR2. I acquired a low mileage one owner supercharged MR2 I’d like to restore so this one has to go. 

The car is virtually rust free has never seen a winter. Some surface rust on front valance and a little behind the rear mud flaps. Very easily remedied. I’ve had the car since May 2014 and its been my main commuter when it wasn’t down from mods or winter. Ive put approximately 40k on the car 30k of which where the 2zz installed. The 2zz has approximately 110k the 6-speed has around 100k and the chassis has just shy of 200k. Lift bolts were replaced when i put the engine in. The list of mods are

2000 celica gts 2zzge and 6-speed
In tank oem celica return-less fuel pump
Celica gts leather seats
Apexi power FC with commander
Custom 2″ exhaust
93 celica front rotors, pads, and calipers
Injen Intake
Spyder wheels
Poly bushings up front

Id like to get $6500 for the car but im open to serious offers. The price can come down a bit if i take some of the stuff off the car. Id consider selling the swap as well if the price was right.


This generation of MR2 has a curb weight of about 2300lbs so it really is fairly close to the Elise which was more like 2000lbs.  It seems like a used late model Elise would sell for roughly five times this Mister Two.  This build appears to be very well thought out and should be a lot of fun to drive.

See another swapped mid engine car? email tips@dailyturismo.com

Cory is trying to find some time to do some front end work on his 1995 Mercedes C36.