’80s MR2

The 1980s Toyota MR2 was a lightweight, mid-engine sports car that proved driving fun didn’t have to be expensive. Launched in 1984, the first-generation AW11 featured sharp, angular styling and pop-up headlights that perfectly captured the decade’s look. Its compact size and balanced chassis made it agile and precise through corners, delivering a genuine sports-car feel. Powered by a 1.6-liter engine—most famously the high-revving 4A-GE—the MR2 offered lively performance without sacrificing reliability. Simple, responsive, and built with typical Toyota durability, it became a favorite among enthusiasts who wanted something different from the usual front-engine coupes. Even today, the AW11 remains a respected icon of affordable 1980s performance.