2001 Toyota MR2 Spyder: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Toyota's mid-engine 2-seat convertible has a manual-folding top, heated glass rear window, and a 4-cyl engine borrowed from the sporty Celica GT. MR2 Spyder comes with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and a 5-speed manual transmission; no automatic is offered. Leather upholstery in tandem with a tan top (vs. black) is optional. Side airbags are not available. A sequential manual transmission option, which substitutes computer control for the clutch pedal, has been postponed to the 2002 model year.

COMPETITION

This class features an interesting mix of hard-core performance models and more luxurious touring convertibles. Our Best Buys give you a little of both worlds. The Chevrolet Corvette is fast, comfortable, and reasonably affordable. Unlike previous models it doesn't beat you up with a hard ride, and it will cruise quietly at highway speeds. Our other Best Buy, the Mazda Miata, is a bare-bones roadster with few frills and average acceleration, but for weekend fun on a twisty back road it's hard to beat.

If you don't mind spending a few more bucks, we recommend you take a look at the Mercedes-Benz SLK. The Mercedes offers an interesting mix of performance and luxury. It also has a retractable hardtop, making it more of an all-weather car.