WomenWithWheels.com Auto Reviews - 2001 Toyota MR2 Spyder Roadster

2001 Toyota MR2 Spyder Roadster
What a Kick

By Susan Frissell

Photo by: James M. Flammang

This car, by far, offers the most fun I've had in a roadster in a long time. Hankering back to the feeling of the 1950s, Toyota promised a 2-door coupe that was "light in weight, light on the road and light on the wallet." They have succeeded. Driving the MR2 back-to-back with one of its competitors (who shall remain anonymous), the MR2 outranked the other roadster, and at a lot less money.

With a total price of $23,553, the MR2 Spyder completes the three-some that Toyota introduced for 2000 (the others include ECHO and seventh-generation Celica). Developed to appeal to younger new-car buyers on a budget, the "trifecta," as Toyota calls it, is an awesome trio.

Available in dealerships last April, Toyota plans to sell approximately 5,000 units. Not having heard recent stats on sales volume, I wouldn't be surprised if sales were close already. It's a car you have to look twice at, and during the second glance one wonders what it is; a Porsche?

This mid-engine/rear-drive car is "simple," yet rich. Weighing just about 2,200 pounds, it feels heavier than it is, handles very well and is a joy to drive. The MR2 Spyder's wheelbase is 96.5 inches, with an overall length of 153 inches. It sports the all-new 1.8-liter twin cam 16-valve four-cylinder, 138 horsepower engine, which it shares with its big brother the Celica GT. The Spyder is equipped with one transmission, a five-speed manual, that is fun and spunky. The steering system is also new, complete with a weight-saving electric hydraulic power unit. One feels the road in the MR2 Spyder, but not with any discomfort. The car is exceptionally responsive, and comfortable. Although small, one doesn't get that cramped feeling.

The way Spyder is assembled makes repairs easier and less expensive. Steel panels are bolted onto high-rigidity unit-body.

As one expects with a roadster, there isn't much space for extras. Behind each seat are storage compartments, as well as under the hood (we never did see these!!). The center console holds audio equipment, or whatever else you might have. The top is soft and manually operated to fold out of sight.

Some of Spyder's standard equipment includes four-wheel disc, anti-lock brakes, A/C, AM/FM/Cassette/CD sound system, power windows and door locks, 15-inch alloy wheels, retractable wind deflector (something seen in a Mercedes-Benz SLK), and glass rear window, with defroster. Additional standard equipment includes dual airbags, engine immobilizer, daytime running lamps, tilt sttering wheel, intermittent wipers, remote fuel door release, leather wrapped steering wheel and map pockets. Destination charge for our MR2 was $455.