Celica GT4 or MR2 Turbo.............

[ajb]

Celica GT4 st205 or MR2 turbo rev 3 ???

Due to my "financial situation" (im skint) the idea of a TVR has gone out the window.

So im looking at getting one of the two Toyotas but cant decide between them.

The They both look good, go quick, handle well and use the same engine.

The MR2 has a T-top roof wich is fantasic for dry days and handles like a go-cart, but the ride is harsh and crashy on badly surfaced roads and can be noisey and teidous on long motorway journeys.

The Celica has 4 wheel drive so can be driven quickly in all weather, has 4 seats and is a bit more refined, but lacks the stering feel and go-cart like changes of direction.

Some one help me decide as i cant spilt them.

Both cost about the same to run, insure and repair and theres not much in the purchase price either.

Anyone have an opinion on this ?

[jacobyte]

The GT Four is more rewarding overall for a driver, but as mentioned above, will require slightly more maintenance.

But then if you're buying with your head and not your heart, get a Daewoo Matiz.

[ajb]

No not found them yet going to look at afew this weekend.

Is the GT4 really more expencive that the MR2 to run ?

I've had an MR2 tub before (rev 1 though) and that wasnt cheep on clutches, cambelt change etc.

[mcflurry]

If you like to go toples get a Midship Roadster, if you like to go offroad get a Carlos-Sainz-mobil

[ajb]

Planning to spend 5K - 6.5K

Its a shame i cant afford both, that would solve the problem !

[Mr E]

I bought a Four for the all weather road crushing pace.

6K gets you a pretty good one.

It'll never turn in like a MR2. It'll never get tail happy like a MR2 either.

Drive both. Pick which one you like.

Yes the four chews up it's suspension every 60K, so buy one that's already been fixed.

Clutches can be done for 3-400 quid at an independant. Bombproof apart from that.

Have a look at my webpage (www.jamesneale.com/GT4/GT4.html) and www.st205.net for more info, buying guides etc.

www.gt4oc.com is the uk owners club. You'll probably find a couple of cars for sale there too.

[iaint]

ajb said:

Planning to spend 5K - 6.5K Its a shame i cant afford both, that would solve the problem !

Was going to suggest 3rd Gen RX-7 but maybe not in that budget (you could get one but it could cost you a packet!). I'd go with the ST205 - really bomb-proof motor and nicely tunable plus a practical boot and (almost practical) back seats.

Or hold off for a bit and buy an FD

Iain

>> Edited by iaint on Friday 3rd December 14:20

[Mr E]

iaint said:

plus a practical boot and (almost practical) back seats.

I wouldn't go that far. Although I did have Lizzie in the back for 40mins to Groove Armarda.

Yes, she's a full grown adult.
Yes, she's only 5 foot 3.

[mcflurry]

Mr E said:

Bombproof apart from that.

Oh contraire - My previous ST185 had a four figure bill from Fensport for a new engine due to an oil failure

Fortunately I got it directly from Japan £2k cheaper than the equivalent UK model so that balanced it back out.

[BigGee]

mcflurry said:

Carlos-Sainz-mobil

Totally agree - but me being family man can't get the kids in the MR2, but think all and all more practical.