1997 TOYOTA MR2

The Turnkey V6 Enthusiast Example – 18 Year Woodsport Ownership

• Registration: December 1997 (Late Revision 4)

• Location: Queensferry Crossing Area (Hertfordshire-based Chassis until 2023)

• Engine: 3.0L 3VZ-FE V6 (Converted by Paul Woods of Woodsport)

• V5C Status: Fully DVLA Registered as 3.0L (Insurance Legal)

• Chassis Mileage: 143,000 (Owned since 2008 @ 68k)

• MOT Expiry: November 2026 (Long-term peace of mind)

• Price: £12,450 (Fixed Price)

The Opportunity: 18 Years of Specialist Care

I have owned this MR2 for nearly two decades, covering just 75,000 miles since 2008. This is a rare chance to buy from a long-term keeper who has overseen every major milestone in the car's life. Unlike most examples on the market, this car has had the three most expensive MR2 ownership tasks—engine swap, structural restoration, and precision maintenance—already completed to the highest standard.

Proven Woodsport Pedigree & Mechanical Spec

• Full Woodsport Build (2011): Professionally converted by Paul Woods at 79,000 chassis miles. I have a signed letter from Woodsport confirming the build for total provenance.

• Fidanza Lightweight Flywheel: Installed by Paul Woods during the swap, providing significantly sharper throttle response and faster rev-matching than the standard V6 unit.

• Performance & "Sleeper" Aesthetic: Please note the automated PistonHeads technical data (7.7s 0–60mph) refers to the original 2.0L factory engine. With this Woodsport V6 conversion, the car is significantly quicker, with performance closer to the Turbo models (typically in the low 6-second range). Retaining the original N/A boot lid gives the car a perfect "sleeper" look. As Paul Woods often describes this conversion, it transforms the car with "bags of effortless torque" and a "linear power delivery" that the original engine simply cannot match. Ultimately, it delivers Turbo-rivalling performance with the bulletproof simplicity of a naturally aspirated 3.0L powerplant.

• Recent Maintenance (2024–2026):

◦ Spark Plugs: Full set replaced March 2025.

◦ Braking System: New brake caliper fitted November 2024; new brake cables installed February 2024.

◦ MOT & Exhaust: The current exhaust system sounds great, though the MOT notes a minor leak. With a valid MOT until November 2026, I have left this as-is so the next owner can decide whether to retain the current setup or upgrade to a custom system of their choice: a specific V6 'howl' or a more subtle OEM+ tone.

• No-Expense-Spared Maintenance: Throughout my ownership, all major parts have been sourced from MR2 Ben, ensuring only specialist-approved components.

• Specialist Servicing: Currently maintained by a 90s-era Toyota dealership mechanic and 90s JDM owner who understands the specific nuances of the MK2 platform.

• Reliability: A video of a stone-cold start (showing the engine settling into a perfect idle) is available upon request.

Structural Integrity & 2024 Restoration

This car offers a level of structural confidence rarely found in the UK:

• “Southern Chassis” History: Spent its life in Hertfordshire until late 2023, avoiding the aggressive road salt exposure typical of Northern vehicles.

• Long-Term Protection: During the engine swap, the car underwent a full underbody rust-prevention treatment by Woodsport, shielding the chassis for over a decade.

• Full Sill Replacement (2024): The common MR2 Achilles' heel has been definitively addressed. Both sills (door bottoms) were professionally replaced and finished in 2024. High-resolution photos of the metalwork are available.

• Handbrake Overhaul (2024): Fully addressed last year; the handbrake now holds firmly on any hill, resolving the notorious MK2 weakness.

• Wheel Restoration (2024): Alloys professionally refurbished by We Restore Alloys; they remain in excellent condition (Please refer to the detail shots).

• Cosmetic Condition: Structurally superb and presents very well with a deep lustre. As an honest 27-year-old finish, the paintwork is commensurate with its age and mileage. I have included photos in various lighting conditions to provide a fair representation.

Interior & Originality

• Authentic Cockpit: The interior is in excellent condition. Uniquely, the sale includes the original Toyota Radio/CD player (currently uninstalled) and a separate CD changer deck, a vital "blue-chip" detail for purists.

Vetting & Viewings

• Security: Listed as "West Fife" for security. The registration plate and exact location will be shared with vetted buyers for HPI/MOT checks.

• Legal & Insurance: Fully registered as a 3.0L. Currently insured via Adrian Flux, ensuring a straightforward process for the next owner.

• Fixed Price: £12,450. This price reflects 18 years of care, the Woodsport pedigree, and the significant 2024 structural investment.

• Viewing: The location offers excellent, well-maintained roads for a proper evaluation. Proof of funds and comprehensive insurance are required for any test drive.