In 1985, the landscape of V8 cars was quite different from today. Many struggled to produce even 200 horsepower. Amidst this backdrop, the lightweight Toyota AW11 MR2, powered by the 4A-GE engine, delivered impressive performance for its time. The supercharged 4A-GZE variant took it a step further, enhancing its appeal. In contrast, the Pontiac Fiero platform, particularly the early models equipped with the underwhelming “Iron Duke” engines, lagged behind. The MR2 was undeniably a superior vehicle in virtually every aspect.
It appears Toyota is drawing inspiration from the later SW20 Turbo MR2 era (1990-1999 in the U.S. and Japan) with the development of a new MR2 powered by the G16E-GTS engine and the all-electric FT-Se version. This strategy suggests Toyota aims to leverage the G16E-GTS engine, much like they capitalized on the versatile 4A-GE twin-cam 1.6L and the subsequent 3S-GTE turbo engine in various sports models.
The SW20 MR2 Turbo, however, was positioned in a higher price bracket compared to the original AW11 MR2. In 1995, the SW20 MR2 Turbo, in its penultimate year in the U.S. market, carried an MSRP of $29,755. Adjusting for inflation, this price equates to approximately $60,617 in today’s dollars. Factoring in the increased costs associated with modern crash safety systems, driver assistance technologies, advanced electronics, sophisticated engine management, and emissions control, a price tag of $60,000 USD or higher for a New Toyota Sports Car doesn’t seem unrealistic.
Conversely, the base 1985 AW11 MR2 was priced around $13,000. When adjusted for 2024 inflation, this translates to roughly $37,000. The current GR86 already occupies this price range, and its affordability is largely attributed to the collaborative partnership between Subaru and Toyota.
While an affordable, original AW11-style MR2 would be desirable, the current circumstances suggest a different direction. With a limited window to maximize the G16E turbo engine’s potential, coupled with rising production costs and the increasing shift towards electrification, we are more likely to see a spiritual successor to the SW20 Turbo MR2. This new model, however, is expected to command a price of $60,000 or more. The fully electric FT-Se variant will likely be even more expensive due to the advanced battery technology it will incorporate.
Regardless of the powertrain, any “MR2” successor is unlikely to be an affordable, entry-level mid-engine sports car. While the outcome may still be impressive and exciting, it probably won’t be within reach for the average consumer seeking an affordable sports runabout.
