Those, in a nutshell, are the up- and downsides of the argument about the MR2 Spyder, but there is no doubt that Toyota's execution of the concept was approached with its usual systematic diligence. Could the Toyota MR2 Make a Comeback as an EV?.With the top up and the tachometer a-winding, there's ample aural evidence broadcast into the cabin of multivalve four-cylinder activities. In fact, the MR2 Spyder - having to accommodate space for a folding top - is worse than the old MR2 coupes in this regard, offering only a couple of shallow compartments behind the seats (the suspension, the radiators, and the spare tire fill the front compartment).ĭropping the engine immediately behind the occupants puts it, and the energetic noises of its exertions, mere inches away from their ears. Certainly, there are numerous reasons why Toyota might have moved away from the concept with its new Miata fighter.įirst, the layout does not facilitate much luggage space. You know, to prove once and for all that it can be done with none of the quirks found in other examples of the type. The new MR2 Spyder is so confidence inspiring that it might almost be the reason Toyota chose the mid-engine format. At no time during our first stint behind the wheel did the car ever display anything other than progressive understeer in corners, and it tracked as straight as a laser at triple-digit velocities with genuine hands-off-the-wheel balance. And having had that accusation hurled at earlier MR2s, Toyota took no chances with the new Spyder. Highly responsive vehicles occasionally verge into outright instability. Unfortunately, it's also responsible for some notably spooky handling at the limit from some examples of the genre. That's what produces the responsive and nimble handling characteristics typical of mid-engined cars. By situating all the heavy bits amidships, you reduce inertia at the car's nose and tail, making it a lot easier for the car to change direction. There are some very good reasons for building a mid-engined sports car. From the April 2000 Issue of Car and Driver
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