Went to a Japanese import specialist in Coventry today as they had some FTOs, Im still curious.......
1 1995 GPX, 1 1995 GR, 1 1997 GPX and 1 1998 GX. All with less than 75k miles.
Was only interested in the GPXs as they have the MIVEC engines. The 1995 one had some major work required to the body(faded) and alloys(bubbled).
The 1997 one was a "facelift" version with the 5 speed auto/semi-auto transmission.
Fresh import, 3.5 rating in the auction, no modifications, totally standard car.
92~k km, so around 58k miles.
Black with no scuffs/marks/chips of any kind on the body.
No perishing rubber on the outside.
Alloys not perfect, but in no way unsightly.
Very well kept on the inside, just some wear on the stearing wheel.
Engine bay was immaculate.
Tread on all tires was very good, fronts were new.
Hows it drive? ;-)
Driving position made me feel like I was in the Ferrari 355 again. So different to my Corolla
Started up nicely, no unusual sounds from the engine, great exhaust note when hitting 6~7k rpm.
Went straight, didnt pull to any side when accelerating or braking.
It was a really enjoyable drive, other than I took a bit of getting used to the auto gears and semi auto gears. First time driving an auto.
They also had a MR2 MKII Turbo Rev 2, although not interested in a Rev 2 I had a look around to see what I would be getting, in general. I have to say, although from a speed and performance point of view its still the car I want. Its totally impractical. Im not talking about the lack of rear seats that the FTO has, Id be taking them out anyway if I bought an FTO. Its the lack of boot space, Id be struggling to fit my guitars in the car, let alone anything else.
Having seen my car they offered me the FTO for my car and £600. Ive managed to haggle them down to my car and £400 for the FTO and a years warranty. It would also come with 1 years MOT and 6 months TAX.
So, very tempted. Am I being stupid, should I sod the impracticality and go for a MR2 Turbo still? These importers said theyd be happy to source one for me and do all the nessecary work if I decide against the FTO. Thinking about it, should have test drove the MR2 Turbo just out of curiosity. Damn! Ill have to go back.
