What engine does a 1985 MR2 have?
The 1985 MR2 is powered by Toyota’s 1.6-liter inline-four, the 4A-GE DOHC 16-valve engine.
In markets outside Japan, the same engine’s output varied due to emissions and tuning. The US-spec MR2 typically produced about 112 horsepower, while the Japanese (JDM) version delivered around 130 horsepower. The 4A-GE is renowned for its high-revving nature, lightweight construction, and role as a cornerstone of Toyota’s sport-focused engineering in the 1980s.
Technical specifications
Key details of the engine used in the 1985 MR2 include:
- Displacement: 1.6 L (1,587 cc)
- Engine code: 4A-GE
- Layout: Inline-4, DOHC, 16 valves
- Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection (EFI)
- Power output: US-spec around 112 hp; JDM-spec around 130 hp
- Redline: roughly 7,000 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual standard; some markets offered a 4-speed automatic
Overall, the 1985 MR2 uses the 1.6L 4A-GE DOHC 16V engine, with market-by-market variations in power but the same fundamental architecture across regions.
Summary
In short, the 1985 Toyota MR2 is powered by the 1.6-liter 4A-GE inline-four with double overhead cams and 16 valves. US models delivered around 112 hp, while JDM versions pushed roughly 130 hp, reflecting regional tuning differences within the same core engine design.
What engine does the MR2 have?
The Toyota MR2 has had several different engines across its generations, with the most common being the naturally aspirated 1.6L 4A-GE, the 2.2L 5S-FE, the 2.0L 3S-GE, the 2.0L turbocharged 3S-GTE, and the 1.8L 1ZZ-FED. Engine choice depended on the specific model year and market, with higher-performance versions often featuring the 3S-GTE turbo or other variations.
Examples of MR2 engines by generation and market
- First Generation (AW11):
- Base Model: 1.6L 4A-GE, a naturally aspirated inline-four
- Supercharged Model: Supercharged 4A-GE with more horsepower
- Second Generation (SW20):
- Non-Turbo (North America): 2.2L 5S-FE inline-four
- Non-Turbo (Europe/Asia): 2.0L 3S-GE inline-four
- Turbo (Worldwide): 2.0L 3S-GTE inline-four
- Third Generation (W30/MR-S):
- Standard Engine: 1.8L 1ZZ-FE with VVT-i
Is the 1985 MR2 reliable?
The Toyota MR2 and MR2 Spyder are very reliable by the standards of sporty mid-engine cars, and any of the cars in the first two generations (1985 to 1995) are a safe bet for reliable and fun motoring.
How much is a 1985 Toyota MR2 worth?
A 1985 Toyota MR2's price varies widely based on condition, with typical examples in good shape selling for around $12,000. Prices can range from as low as $6,405 for cars needing significant work to over $28,000 for rare or exceptionally maintained models with desirable features. The original MSRP was about $11,194.
Price breakdown
- Average condition: Around $12,000 for a 1985 MR2 in good condition with average specifications.
- Low end: The lowest sale price was $6,405 for a car needing extensive maintenance or with title problems.
- High end: The highest price paid was $28,875 for a rare or exceptionally well-preserved example with desirable features.
- Original MSRP: The original MSRP was approximately $11,194.
Factors affecting price
- Condition: The car's overall condition is a primary factor. A vehicle in excellent, original condition will command a higher price.
- Mileage: Lower mileage generally increases the value.
- History: A clean history and well-documented maintenance can add value.
- Modifications: Some desirable modifications can increase the price, while others may decrease it.
- Rare features: Features that make the car rarer, such as specific trim levels or engine options, will impact its value.
What engine is in the 1985 MR2?
First generation (W10; 1984–1989)
| W10 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5 L 3A-LU I4 (AW10) 1.6 L 4A-GE DOHC I4 (AW11) 1.6 L 4A-GZE supercharged I4 (AW11) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual 4-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,319 mm (91.3 in) |
