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Úvod »Automobily osobní a dodávky»Lada/VAZ » Toyota MR2 2000-2007 Road Test Portfolio
For the start of a new millennium Toyota went back to the MR2’s eighties origins, reducing the overall size of the third generation series and making it a much lighter car than before. The downsizing also included the 4-cylinder engine, which became a 1,794cc 16-valve all-aluminium unit producing 138bhp. However, an even more dramatic decision was electing to do away with the Targa-style top and use a proper sports car soft top. Thus the new convertible was given the MR2 Spyder nomenclature in the USA, while in the Japanese market it became the MR-S and for Europe it was known as the MR2 Roadster. Comparisons were drawn with the Porsche Boxster by a few people, but it seems unlikely that the Toyota stylists were influenced by the German car. While it might have lost a solid roof, the third generation had sacrificed none of the desirable attributes which had enabled preceding versions to establish the MR2 reputation. The mid-engine layout produced excellent handling, the long wheelbase gave high-speed stability and the simple body structure made the car a really economical package.
Thanks to the weight reduction programme the performance of the MR2 Roadster was still pretty much on a par with its earlier cousin, 0-60mph times varying slightly depending on the type of transmission fitted. Upgrades and updates were introduced as time went on, with specifications tailored to suit different markets, although many of the changes were basically cosmetic: newly styled front and rear lights, revised bumpers, 16-inch diameter wheels, etc. A rather more fundamental alteration for 2004 came in the form of a strengthened body shell which, combined with improvements to the suspension system, added a modest 10kg to the weight. Performance was not noticeably affected by these revisions. Citing falling sales due to increased competition from rival makes, Toyota announced that the MR2 Spyder would be withdrawn from the North American market in 2005. Following several limited edition models, production of the MR2 ceased in 2007. Since its demise, rumours have continually circulated of a new MR2 under development with sightings of disguised prototypes occasionally reported, but none of these reports have been verified. For now, motoring enthusiasts can only enjoy the cars that exist. From the very outset, the MR2 has always delivered what it promised and long may it continue to do so. All models are reported on. Included are road, comparison and long term tests plus tabulated performance data. Detailed advice is offered on acquiring a good pre-owned Toyota MR2. A total of 160 fully illustrated pages. SB.