Models · Toyota
Toyota MR2 SW20 (Mk2) buying guide
The second mid-engined MR2, built from 1989 to 1999 through several revisions, most commonly with the 2.0 3S-GE in the UK, and with turbo versions arriving as imports. Mechanically sturdy, its checks centre on maintenance and rust.
The versions
- 2.0 3S-GE, 158bhp; 173bhp from Rev 3 (late 1993) with a revised intake and head
- 2.0 3S-FE, 119bhp, entry-level
- 2.0 turbo 3S-GTE, up to 242bhp, never officially sold in the UK
- Coupé with a fixed roof, removable sunroof or glass T-bar roof; five-speed manual, optional limited slip differential
What to check on a Mk2 MR2
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Cambelt and the turbo's tensioner
What to look for: Look in the history for a dated cambelt change. On an early turbo car (Rev 1 or Rev 2, up to late 1993), ask whether the hydraulic cambelt tensioner has been replaced too.
Why it matters: Cambelts on all these engines are often neglected because they're tight to change in the car. Early turbo cars have a hydraulic tensioner that can fail if it isn't replaced at the recommended interval.
Overheating and head gaskets
What to look for: With the engine cold, check the coolant level and colour, and give the coolant hoses a squeeze for cracks. On the drive, watch the temperature gauge stays steady, and afterwards check for coolant loss or smoke from the exhaust.
Why it matters: The 3S-GE is well built but prone to head gasket failure if it overheats, and cracking coolant pipes are a common cause. Early turbo cars (Rev 1 and Rev 2) had fibre head gaskets that can fail with age; the multi-layer steel gaskets from Rev 3 can be fitted to earlier engines.
Rear sills, arches and the engine bay bars
What to look for: Look closely at the rear sills, the rear and inner wheel arches, the door bottoms and the inner headlight brackets for rust. Check the roof drains at the bottom of the windscreen pillars are clear. In the engine bay, look at the stiffening bars for corrosion.
Why it matters: Rear sills rust frequently, often because the sound-deadening foam behind the side panels traps moisture. Blocked roof drains let water into the cabin. The engine bay bars rust from poor paint coverage, and stainless replacements exist.
Also in the full guide
- Power steering warning light
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Mk2 MR2
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Toyota.