1988 Toyota MR2 Supercharged
VIN: JT2AW16J2J0127643
Originally Conceived as a small, economical and sporty car, in 1988 Toyota presented to the market the MR2 AW11. The car featured a mid-mounted 1.6-liter 4A-GZE four engine equipped with an electromagnetically-engaged supercharger and an intercooler. The powerplant was paired to a 5-speed manual transaxle for a fun driving experience. Stock output was 143 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque.
Some question remains as to the meaning of MR2: One camp states "Midship Runabout 2 Seater", while others list "Mid Engine Rear Wheel Drive 2 Seater." An internet search will present many variations that are fun to read.
The car presented at auction is a very nice original example. Originally a California car, the 2nd owner brought the car to the equally dry Montana climate where it was parked in a garage since 2008. The odometer shows 158K miles. The pictures show the interior and exterior are in very good condition. No rips or tears are present on the seats and the body is very solid with the Blue paint showing well. The wheels show oxidation and the tires present good tread.
Mechanically the car runs good despite sitting for 10+ years. The car starts on command and provides a fun driving experience as recognized in a feature article of the December, 1987 Car and Driver Magazine. As quoted, "The supercharger makes the little motor feel much bigger than it is, from liftoff right up to the 7500-rpm redline."
This car has been consigned to the 5th Annual Salt Lake City Classic Car Auction featuring 150 Classic and Collector cars selling across the auction block! The auction is held Saturday, March 28 at the Mountain America Expo Center. For information on buying or selling at the auction go to www.classiccarauction.us
