Buying a used Toyota MR2 Spyder (2000-06)

Toyota rarely misses a bull's eye product target but the "not quite a Boxster" image ensured that the dainty MR2 Spyder replacement for the popular second generation MR2 was judged more on what it lacked than what it achieved. It surrendered big sales to the MX-5 before it disappeared in 2006 as a sold to order model only.

The major October 2002 upgrade added a six-speed transmission, bigger wheels, extra suspension braces, needle-bearing steering column, upgraded headlights, better sound, different cabin details and Vehicle Stability Control along with minor exterior changes that give it more character.

Look past the luggage limits and baby Boxster jibes, master the SMT transmission and there is a fine, stiff chassis that communicates and rewards good driving better than any other sports car of this size this side of a Lotus Elise. As a low-cost commuter with weekend fun, it revives the bug-eyed Healey Sprite formula.

Prices: Early cars in average condition are dropping below $20,000 for the first time. Later examples with the six-speed transmission span the $30-40,000 price range based on a stiff $50,000 ask when new but don't always get it.

Checkpoints 

Peaky 1.8 VVTi engine delivered 104kW/6400 and 170Nm/4400 rpm. Although sweet and willing, it needs big revs so watch out for engines that have been constantly thrashed. Overseas reports suggest that some early engines had blow-by problems which boosted oil consumption after 70-80,000km so check carefully.

Restricted access to engine dictates bigger than usual repair costs for oil leaks around rocker covers and other routine repairs. This engine also doesn't like long service intervals mixed with short runs so a careful oil and filter change history is essential to minimise risk of sludging and damage to the fancy internals.

Main obstacle to success was its Sequential Manual Transmission (SMT) with electronic clutch that eliminated the clutch pedal and replicated the manual shift function of an auto with up and down shift functions only. In practice, it behaves differently to both a manual and auto and requires some skill to master in all situations. Careless driving will result in a slipping or shuddering clutch just like a manual. While down changes are sharp and clever, initial launch and upshifts cost vital time increments in a car that didn't need to lose any performance. VW's magic DSG highlights what was really needed.

The SMT in early five and later six speed spec exploits a range of electronics to control the throttle regardless of the pedal position and selects first on its own when stationary. A survey of owners revealed that vital SMT components including the actuator are a warranty replacement item waiting to cost later owners $2-3000. Abusive drivers who engage first gear from rest at high revs will destroy it. Make sure it changes crisply and without delay on test.

Luggage space is limited with the hood down and the spare wheel in place so look for wear and tear inside the lids, luggage areas and cabin. Hood-down weekend getaways best restricted to thimble of laundry powder and toothbrush or run the gauntlet without the spare. 

Hood on earlier cars now old enough to show signs of weathering. Check operation of hood mechanism, rear window condition and side seals. Plain interior still prone to sun or water damage so check carefully for fading and distortion.

Low body with all that exterior paint attracts dings so make sure any bumper repairs match colour and shine of original. Alloys and underbody are also vulnerable with careless drivers.