How much is an MR2 worth?
In 2025, MR2 values vary widely by generation, trim, and condition. Typical U.S. market ranges span from roughly eight thousand dollars for well-used examples to well over sixty thousand dollars for pristine, low-mileage Turbo SW20s and specially preserved cars.
The question requires breaking down pricing by generation and condition, while also noting regional differences and market dynamics that affect value. This article provides current guidance based on recent listings, auction results, and pricing guides to help buyers and sellers gauge what an MR2 is worth today.
Generational price bands
Prices differ significantly between the first and second generations, and within the second generation, between non-turbo and turbo models. The bands below reflect typical listings and sale results in the United States as of 2025, with notes on regional variations.
- First-generation MR2 (AW11, 1984–1989): typically $8,000–$20,000 for a good to very good example; well-preserved, low-mileage cars or rare color/spec combinations can push toward $25,000 or more.
- Second-generation MR2 (SW20, 1990–1999) – Non-Turbo: commonly $12,000–$25,000; pristine, low-mileage examples may reach $28,000–$32,000.
- Second-generation MR2 (SW20, 1990–1999) – Turbo: commonly $25,000–$60,000; exceptionally clean, low-mileage units can exceed $60,000, with some ultra‑low-mileage or highly original cars approaching the high end of the market.
- MR2 Spyder (MR-S, 2000–2005): commonly $8,000–$18,000; well-kept examples or those with low miles may reach $20,000–$25,000.
- Regional and market nuances: prices can fluctuate based on local demand, import status, and availability; Japan‑built cars (or JDM imports) may command different premiums depending on provenance and compliance in the buyer’s country.
In practice, a buyer should expect these bands to shift with the market, the specific car’s history, and how closely it matches stock condition.
What drives value in an MR2?
The following factors commonly influence how much an MR2 is worth, from the baseline price bands above to the specific car’s story and condition.
- Model and generation: Turbos generally command higher prices than non‑turbo NA cars; first‑gen AW11 prices differ from second‑gen SW20 pricing.
- Overall condition and originality: original paint, unmodified mechanicals, and clean undercarriage typically add value; mismatched repairs or heavy non‑stock modifications can reduce it.
- Mileage: lower miles in good condition tend to push values higher, especially for rare colors or packages.
- Maintenance history and records: complete service histories, including timing belts, head gaskets, and timing components, reassure buyers and support higher asking prices.
- Documentation and provenance: factory options catalogs, window stickers, service receipts, and owner history can boost desirability.
- Mechanical health: compression, leak-free engines, healthy turbos (where applicable), solid transmissions, and no rust are quality signals that raise value.
- Modifications and aftermarket parts: tasteful, period-correct upgrades may be accepted by some buyers, but extensive or non‑factory alterations can hurt resale unless well documented and widely favored by the community.
- Color and trim rarity: uncommon color combinations or limited editions can fetch premiums among collectors and enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the price is a negotiation anchored in condition, provenance, and demand at the moment of sale, with Turbo SW20s and well-kept NA SW20s at the high end of their respective ranges.
Where to check current pricing and how to assess listings
To gauge a fair price for an MR2 today, compare multiple trusted sources and recent sales. Listings can lag market shifts, so it’s wise to triangulate among several data points.
- Hagerty Price Guide and market reports for model-by-model baselines and recent trend data.
- Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, and other auction results for real-world sale prices on stock and modified cars alike.
- Dealer inventories and private sales portals in your region to gauge current asking prices and availability.
- Specialty forums and owner clubs—these communities often track prices and can provide context about condition and originality.
When evaluating a listing, look for recent service records, any rust or accident history, evidence of timing belt changes or head gasket work (especially on 3S‑GE and 3S‑GTE engines), and whether the car is stock or modified. Cross-check the VIN against maintenance activity and confirm the car’s provenance with photos and documentation before making an offer.
Summary
Prices for the MR2 in 2025 vary by generation and condition, with Turbo SW20s and well‑preserved examples at the top end of the spectrum. Expect roughly $8,000–$20,000 for AW11, $12,000–$25,000 for non‑turbo SW20, $25,000–$60,000 (and potentially higher for exceptional cases) for Turbo SW20, and $8,000–$18,000 for the MR2 Spyder, with regional differences influencing the final numbers. The most reliable valuations come from cross-checking multiple sources, prioritizing documentation and mechanical health, and recognizing that market demand can shift quickly in the classic‑car scene.
