Persona Non Turbo: 1991 Toyota MR2

The 2nd generation Toyota MR2 (1989-1999) is best known for its turbocharged headliner, a beast of a thing that could hit 60mph in 6 seconds before you started cranking up the boost, but sellers demand a premium for the turbo version and it does add some weight and complexity.  If you want to save a few bucks and a few lbs, get the nicest version of the non-turbo one you can find.  Like this 1991 Toyota MR2 offered for $6,300 in Bergen County, NJ via craigslist.

The Toyota MR2 was about as close as you could get to a Japanese super
car before the launch of Honda’s NSX, particularly in the Ferrari
look-alike second generation.  It features a design that is somewhat restrained, but the balanced mid-engine setup allows for fantastic at-the-limit
handling.

This MR2 is powered by the base 2.2 liter 5S-FE inline-4 that makes 130
horsepower and is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox.  Performance with
the 2600 lb curb weight won’t be mind blowing, but the MR2 is a fantastic apex
carver.

See another slow car that is fun to drive fast? tips@dailyturismo.com