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What kind of engine is in the Toyota MR2?

The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine sports car that has been produced by Toyota since the 1980s. The MR2 is known for its unique engine configuration, which sets it apart from many other sports cars on the market.


Engine Specifications


The Toyota MR2 is powered by a mid-mounted engine, which means the engine is located behind the driver and in front of the rear axle. This configuration provides the MR2 with excellent weight distribution and handling characteristics. The specific engine used in the MR2 varies depending on the model year and generation, but the most common engine is a four-cylinder, naturally-aspirated gasoline engine.


For example, the third-generation MR2 (produced from 1999 to 2007) was powered by a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produced around 138 horsepower. This engine was paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.


Advantages of the Mid-Engine Layout


The mid-engine layout of the Toyota MR2 offers several advantages over a traditional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car configuration:



  • Improved weight distribution: With the engine located behind the driver, the MR2 has a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, which enhances handling and stability.

  • Responsive handling: The mid-engine layout gives the MR2 a nimble and responsive feel, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving.

  • Increased traction: The weight of the engine over the rear wheels provides excellent traction, especially in low-traction conditions.


These advantages have made the Toyota MR2 a beloved sports car among driving enthusiasts for decades.

Is a Toyota MR2 a JDM car?


What started as a design experiment gave rise to a JDM classic – the Toyota MR2. As with many JDM legends, the MR2's story starts with the pursuit of redefining what a good car is, challenging the status quo.



What engine fits in a Toyota MR2?


For all those reasons, one of the best engines for an MR2 swap is the 2GR-FE. This naturally aspirated 3.5-liter aluminum V6 is lightweight and will more than double the base MR2's power output.



Is the Toyota MR2 a fast car?


At the test track, our supercharged MR2 turned in a 0-to-60-mph time of 6.5 seconds and ran the quarter-mile in 15.0 seconds at 91 mph. That's enough to hold off a Porsche 944S in the stoplight drags.



Does the Toyota MR2 have a turbo?


For its high-sport engine option, the new MR2 borrows the lusty turbocharged and intercooled 3S-GTE 2.0-liter four developed for the Celica All-Trac.



Why are MR2 so rare?


The Toyota MR2 was discontinued after the smaller, lighter, and less expensive third-generation W30 MR2 had run its course for the 2005 model year.



Which MR2 is supercharged?


In 1986 (1988 for the US market), Toyota introduced a supercharged engine for the MR2. Based on the same block and head, the 4A-GZE was equipped with a small Roots-type supercharger and a Denso intercooler.



How much is a 1985 Toyota MR2 worth today?


The value of a 1985 Toyota MR2 Mk I can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $12,000 for a 1985 Toyota MR2 Mk I in good condition with average spec.



Was the MR2 ever supercharged?


In 1986 (1988 for the US market), Toyota introduced a supercharged engine for the MR2. Based on the same block and head, the 4A-GZE was equipped with a small Roots-type supercharger and a Denso intercooler.



What engine does the MR2 use?


MR2 with a NA 2.2L 5S-FE engine producing 130 hp (97 kW) and offered with a four-speed A/T or five-speed M/T.



What engine is in a 1985 Toyota MR2?


The most common engine was the 1.6-liter unit carried-over from the Corolla. It featured electronic fuel injection supplied by Denso and a variable intake camshaft. It was mated as standard to a 5-speed manual, but a 4-speed automatic was on the options list.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.