Úvod »Automobily nákladní a tahače»Sisu » Toyota MR2 1984-1989 Road Test Portfolio
Some commentators have compared the first generation MR2 to the Bertone-designed Fiat X1/9 but whether Toyota’s designers actually took their inspiration from the Italian car is impossible to say. However, while it may be true that there are certain similarities in the angular body styling, the vastly superior performance of the Japanese sports car puts it in an entirely different league. Following almost seven years in development, the MR2 made its debut at the 1983 Tokyo Motor Show. At the launch the sports car won universal approval, and once journalists were able to write their road test reports it became obvious that Toyota had created a real winner – a car that performed as good as it looked. Coming from a car company that, since 1949, had established its reputation as a producer of reliable family transportation, the MR2 was a revelation. A mid-engined two-seater sports coupe, built primarily for pleasure rather than practicality, it opened up a whole new market sector for Toyota. Lightweight, with superb road holding and powered by a 1,587cc DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine that developed a healthy 128bhp, the MR2 could top 120mph and accelerate from zero to 60mph in 7.6 seconds. No wonder this car was a huge success from the moment it went on sale to the public in 1984.
The main drawback of the first generation MR2 (at least, in European eyes) was its cramped cockpit space and minimal luggage capacity, and these aspects attracted some criticism in the media. In the main, though, drivers were so delighted with the car’s precise handling and pace that they were prepared to forgive the lack of room. 1986 saw the first major alteration to the specification with the introduction of a 'T-Bar' top (or Targa roof) as an optional extra. Fitted with removable glass sunroof panels, it was optimistically claimed in Toyota sales literature that these could be detached in a matter of seconds. While the procedure might have been a little bit more complicated than was suggested by the brochure, the opportunity to enjoy wind-in-the-hair motoring only added to the MR2's appeal. By the time production of the first generation MR2 came to an end in 1989 a total of 166,104 cars had been sold. Not only did the sports car prove to be financially profitable, the kudos it had earned for Toyota was immeasurable. All W10 models are reported on. Included are road and comparison tests, model introductions plus full specifications and performance data. Advice is offered on acquiring a good pre-owned MR2. A total of 160 fully illustrated pages. SB.