Which MR2 was supercharged?
The Toyota MR2 is a beloved sports car known for its lightweight design, mid-engine layout, and impressive handling. Over its production years, Toyota introduced several versions of the MR2, each with unique features. Among these, one particular model stood out for its supercharged engine, offering enthusiasts a thrilling driving experience. In this article, we’ll explore which MR2 was supercharged and what made it special.
The Supercharged MR2: The AW11 SC
The supercharged version of the Toyota MR2 was part of the first-generation MR2, known as the AW11. This model was produced between 1984 and 1989, and the supercharged variant was introduced in 1986. Toyota added the supercharged engine to enhance the performance of the already nimble and fun-to-drive MR2, making it a true competitor in the sports car market of its time.
Key Features of the Supercharged MR2
The supercharged MR2, often referred to as the MR2 SC, came with several upgrades that set it apart from the naturally aspirated version. Here are the key features:
- Engine: The MR2 SC was equipped with a 1.6-liter 4A-GZE inline-four engine. This engine featured a Roots-type supercharger, which significantly increased power output compared to the naturally aspirated 4A-GE engine.
- Power Output: The supercharged engine produced approximately 145 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque, a notable improvement over the 112 horsepower of the naturally aspirated version.
- Transmission: The MR2 SC came with a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic, both tuned to handle the increased power.
- Performance: The supercharged MR2 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest cars in its class during the 1980s.
- Visual Differences: The MR2 SC featured subtle visual cues, such as a raised engine cover with vents to improve cooling and "Supercharged" badging to distinguish it from the base model.
These features made the MR2 SC a standout option for drivers seeking a compact sports car with enhanced performance and agility.
Why the MR2 SC Was Special
The supercharged MR2 was special because it combined Toyota’s engineering expertise with a focus on driver enjoyment. The addition of the supercharger transformed the MR2 into a more powerful and responsive car while maintaining its lightweight and balanced characteristics. It was a car that appealed to enthusiasts who wanted an affordable, reliable, and fun-to-drive sports car.
Conclusion
The supercharged Toyota MR2, or MR2 SC, remains a cherished model among car enthusiasts. Its combination of a mid-engine layout, lightweight design, and supercharged performance made it a unique offering in the sports car market of the 1980s. If you’re lucky enough to find one today, it’s a piece of automotive history worth preserving and enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
How to tell if MR2 is supercharged?
The instruments don't look any different at all—until finally you notice that the tachometer has a red-striped sector above 7500 rpm, plus a little green light, labeled "Supercharger." And a switch for premium or regular unleaded sits just above your right knee.
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.
Which Toyotas were supercharged?
TRD supercharged engine list
- AE92 Corolla 1987–1991 (Japan only)
- AE101 Corolla 1991–1995 (Japan only)
- AW11 MR2 1986–1989 (Japan, 1988–1989 North America)
- AE92 Sprinter 1987–1991 (Japan only)
- AE101 Sprinter 1991–1995 (Japan only)
What was the top speed of the 1987 MR2 supercharged?
Based on the same block and head, the 4A-GZE was equipped with a small roots type supercharger and a Denso intercooler. T-VIS was eliminated and the compression ratio was lowered to 8:1. It produced 145 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque and accelerated from 0 to 62 mph 6.5 seconds Top speed 131mph.
How much horsepower does a 1989 Toyota MR2 supercharged have?
145
The Roots-type blower bumped horsepower to 145 and knocked almost two seconds off the normally aspirated MR2's mid-eight-second dash to 60 mph. Even cooler, the supercharger was coupled by an electromagnetic clutch so that it could be disabled when not needed-and when it was in use, a green LED illuminated on the dash.
Which car was used in Tarzan the Wonder car?
Tarzan the wonder car was based on this car😍 Do you miss pop-up headlights in cars? 😟 This JDM machine was wayyy ahead of it's time. This under-rated Toyota MR 2 comes straight from the best JDM garage in the country - @joey_postel who has taken significant effort to ensure the JDMs stay alive till date.
Did the MR2 come with a turbo?
From launch, the second-generation MR2's engine line-up included three 2.0-litre 16v powerplants: a base 119bhp unit from the Carina (only available in the UK), the naturally aspirated 3S-GE with 165bhp, and a turbocharged 3S-GTE with 225bhp also used in the Celica GT-Four.
What was the fastest Toyota MR2?
New Toyota MR2 World Record Congratulations to Kyle Wade from BoostedBoiz on resetting the world record for the Toyota MR2 platform with a 7.76 @ 184.35mph. This beast is powered by a Honda K Series engine combined with a Precision Turbo 8085 Next Gen. #precisionturbo #kswap #mr2.
