Looking at a 1985 Toyota MR2, where to start?

[deadken]

I'm considering buying a 1985 Toyota MR2.

Backstory (skip if you don't care): I'm not sure why, but I've wanted one for a while. I remember reading an article (R&T maybe?) about the MR2 vs. the Pontiac Fiero. The Fiero won on styling and lost on everything else. Ok, so I could use another car, rarely have anyone other than myself in my car, enjoy driving a stick, and haven't owned a Japanese car yet (ever). Sure, I drove my Dads 1981 Toyota Corolla and my Mother-in-laws Toyota (it's been so long, I can't remember the model, maybe Tercel?), but I've never bought one myself. I've always owned American, or European (BIG Volvo guy here, a couple of VW's, BMW's (320's), and even a 1985 MB 300TD). So, maybe it's time for something different. I love driving my 1988 VW Jetta (1.8 SOHC / 5 Speed) which I bought from a buddy of mine who set it up for Autocross. Why not get something else inexpensive, fun, and perhaps even reliable? I've worked as a mechanic for over 14 years before I became a supervisor, so it isn't like I don't know anything. I stopped working on cars in 1994, so I prefer older cars (I can work on OBD II, but don't really see the need for the extra complexity). If I didn't own a 2003 VW Passat (2.8V6), the newest car I would have owned would be the 1996 Dodge Stratus my co-worker gave me (which I fixed up for my Daughters first car).

So, now I'm wondering what weak spots to look for? Particular areas that rot? Common drivetrain problems (I know, I know, it's a Toyota...)? Interior concerns (including sunroof / targa leaks)?

I'd likely be keeping it stock for a while / long while. Mostly a weekend / fun car with possible Daily Driver use for extended periods.

Right now, I found a Original Owner White 1985 Mr2 listed for $950. It's a 5 speed and has a sunroof. Just wondering where to start looking for what can typically go on these cars. I know at least (2) guys here have older Mr2's, but, I figured I'd ask everyone.

Thanks in advance for any helpful or humorous comments.

EDIT: BTW, I live on Long Island, NY. So, I'll already be looking for flood damage (most recently from Hurricane Sandy).

I'll likely be joining a Toyota specific forum or two, so if anyone can suggest a good one for a 46 year old guy, I'd be interested in hearing about it.

 

[Black2na]

Lol you come to the correct place! Four regulars on here own them! For a forum hands down best mr2 is WWW.mr2oc.com been around since 1998 in its current form. Database of knowledge is hugeee. 2nd is for a MR2 in general your gonna have to get your hands dirty working it and being tightly packed some jobs SUCKKK. I'll be back in a few hours for more rundown about the car but I'm sure Jlee,fuzzydunlop or JCH13 will chime in

 

[Black2na]

Floor board rust is big on those in new england normally due to leaking ttops owners are not bothered to change. you have the classic wheel arch rust and the rust that forms behind the sideskirts all bits like that to check. engine wise they like to eat HG due to people not keeping the cooling systems clean. suspension is probly gonna be pretty worn out as it is a 28 year old car but fear not whole car bushing kit is about 150 to upgraded poly bushings make a real improvement to the handling! up grade to 15" wheels MR2 sypder wheels are a direct replacement and look amazing. also it opens up a huge pile of cost effective tires! if you have any more questions please feel free to ask. also buy all the parts you can from www.twosrus.com owner is david hawkins best MR2 supplier out there customer service is second to none and he is a good friend of mine. he also has a very saught after 89SC with a freshly rebuilt engine for about 5k which is a steal and the car is pretty much rust free and he lives in harrisburg PA so within driving distance of NYC. good luck with your search!

 

[deadken]

Thanks for the information. I was hoping to get to see the car today, but no luck. I appreciate the head gasket information. I'll be sure to look for signs of overheating as well as service records for cooling system maintenance.

While that '89 sounds very nice, I'm not sure I can afford to drop that much cash right now. My daughter is in her junior year of college and I have very little 'extra' cash. That being said, I do have my 'other' car which is still awaiting re-assembly after coming back from paint (I'm way behind thanks to Sandy). I try to be rather frugal since my '72 Volvo gets the bulk of any spare cash. Now that the cold weather is coming, I might actually get some things done on that car.

I'll also pay extra attention to the floor boards. I typically look for rust / rot on any older car, but knowing of some problem areas can really help out. Thanks again, I'm still hoping to hear from others as to specific areas I should pay close attention to.