Highlights

Only 33,616 documented miles from new
Very original car including dealer plates, stickers and key fobs
Remained in same family for most of its life then enthusiast owned
Desirable standard T-Bar car with reliable 3S-GE 160bhp 2L engine
Well kept car with recent cavity wax treated
Recent service and work to brakes including rear caliper rebuild
MOT to April 2025

The Appeal

The first generation MR2 took its cues from the Fiat X1/9, the second owed a lot to Panther’s still-born Solo project. It blended sleek mid-engined aesthetics with an appealing blend of sporting and GT capabilities. That it was reliable too - after all it was a Toyota - gave it a head start against many of its European rivals.

There were few cars quite like it, which perhaps explains why so many have been modified or driven into the ground. Not this one. It is the desirable European-specification GT-I T-Bar and has covered less than 34,000 miles, most of it in the hands of the same family. Thankfully it is exactly as it left the dealership in August 1991. That includes the original dealer plates, window stickers and key fobs.

As you might expect of such a low mileage car, it is in quite remarkable timewarp condition. Close inspection of the photos of the white exterior and black leather cabin reveals few signs of its 33 years.

Adding to its appeal is a long MOT, recent service - in July 2024 - and work to the brakes and calipers just a few months ago.

The vendor writes:

“It is a Toyota enthusiast’s dream car, to be kept in careful storage or used in fair weather for enjoyment. I admired the car as a fabulous example and its condition is quite special.”

The History and Paperwork

First registered 1st August 1991
Reportedly bought new as a retirement treat
Remained in same family for most of its life through various keepers
Previous and current keepers are Toyota enthusiasts
Seven registered keepers from new
Complete set of factory handbooks and wallet as shown in good condition
Factory key fobs
Toyota sales brochure
MOT to 3rd April 2025 with one minor advisory for battery tray
32,429 miles showing on last MOT and now on 33,616 miles
Last service in late July 2024 at 33,320 miles
Rear brake calipers rebuilt and two tyres in April 2024
Cavity wax treatment in November 2021
Retains supplying dealer livery, number plates, rear window sticker, and key fobs
Distinctive private plate included in sale

The Condition

Original, unrestored and unmodified T-Bar car in very good condition
Few signs of age or use to paintwork but buyers should be realistic due to originality
Vendor advises that there is a small mark on the bonnet and one on the rear valance
Bodywork presents well with straight panels and well kept arches, sills and underside
Underside cavity wax treated in November 2021 and remains in very good order
No structural advisories on current MOT
Five spoke factory alloy wheels in very good order with few marks
Toyo Proxes tyres in good condition with two replaced in April 2024
Exterior fittings in good order with clear light lenses and good trim fittings
Glass removable targa roof panels in good condition with well kept rubber seals
Roof hood bags and sunshades included in sale
Black leather interior very good order with little wear even to high-traffic areas
Driver’s seat bolster shows very light wear and slight sheen but not significant
Factory-fitted CD player and radio
Well kept interior switchgear, carpets, door cards and trim with few signs of use

The Mechanics

Well regarded, very reliable 1,998cc naturally aspirated 3S-GE 4cyl engine
European specification car with 160bhp output
5spd manual gearbox
Standard factory European specification car with no upgrades
The vendor states that it drives flawlessly
No mechanical or running gear advisories on current MOT
There is a minor advisory for the battery tray that appears easy to remedy

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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