Go and register at
www.MR2oc.com and use the search feature. You'll find all the info you're looking for.
As a matter of fact, I think there is an ongoing thread about the MR2 as a first car. Just do a search and you'll find it.
As for my personal opinion, I don't think it's an ideal first car. I feel you should start with a less powerful and more forgiving car. If you can learn to drive a slower car at the limits, you'll find it a lot more rewarding when you move up to something quicker.
My first car was a '93 celica GT liftback. It was a great first car, especially when I was commuting back and forth everyday to school and work. It was sporty, decent on gas, and actually had plenty of room inside. It was also a decent track car. Nothing spectacular, but it definately helped me learn. I learned a lot driving that car, mostly from the mistakes I made, and trust me, I made a lot, and did a pretty decent amount of damage to my car in the meantime. Cosmetically and engine.
Eventually, I was comfortable with my celica and found myself pushing the limits of the car. I decided it was time to take the next step. I purchased my MR2 turbo as my 2nd car, and have loved every minute of it. It was definately a humbling step to move from my 135hp FF celica to the 200hp MR MR2, but it gave me an even greater appreciation of the power and handling characteristics of the car. The MR2 is much less forgiving on oversteer and if you live in an area where it snows, well, let's just say the MR2 is no champ in icy conditions.
If my MR2 was my first car, I'm sure I would have damn near destroyed it, or killed myself. Whichever came first. From my own personal experience, I'd say get something with a little less power and something a little cheaper to maintain, and save a car like the MR2 for maybe a 2nd or 3rd car. I think you'll appreciate it a little more down the road.
Just my $0.02
Best of luck!
Frank
Forum for every generation Toyota MR2. Including the AW11 and SW20.
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