Market Position:
The 2000 Toyota MR2 Spyder (known as MR-S in Japan) revitalized Toyota's mid-engine sports car legacy, targeting drivers seeking an affordable, agile, and engaging open-top driving experience.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Mazda Miata (MX-5), Honda S2000 (though generally at a higher price point), and Porsche Boxster in its segment.
Key Features:
Mid-engine layout for balanced weight distribution, rear-wheel drive, convertible soft-top, lightweight construction, and a focus on driver feedback.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides licensed, OE-derived information crucial for maintaining and repairing this specialized sports car, empowering owners and independent mechanics.
Engine:
1.8L 1ZZ-FE DOHC VVT-i
Engine Management:
Fuel Injection, Ignition, Emissions Control, OBD-II Diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission (C60), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Multi-Link, Springs, Dampers, Bushings
Steering:
Rack and Pinion, Power Steering System (if applicable)
Brakes:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, ABS System
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Frame
Heating And Air Conditioning:
HVAC System, Refrigerant, Controls
Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Gauges
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Spark Plug Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-Based Analysis
Repair:
Component Replacement, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Service, Suspension Component Replacement
Installation:
Component Installation, Accessory Fitment
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and testing procedures for all major systems.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic scheduled maintenance to advanced engine and transmission diagnostics and repair.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence)
Displacement:
1.8 liters (1794 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
138 hp @ 6400 RPM (approx.)
Torque:
127 lb-ft @ 4200 RPM (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher recommended
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.0 Liters (with heater)
Recommended Coolant:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent (red)
Spark Plugs:
Iridium-tipped, typically Denso FK20HR11 or NGK BKR6R-11
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 Liters (with filter)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
0W-20 or 5W-30
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Sequential-Shift Automatic (rare option, not common for 2000 model year in North America)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated, Dry Single Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Toyota Genuine Gear Oil LT 75W-90 or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.0 Liters
Length:
152.8 inches (3880 mm)
Width:
66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height:
49.4 inches (1255 mm)
Wheelbase:
91.7 inches (2330 mm)
Ground Clearance:
5.5 inches (140 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,250 lbs (1020 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3,000 lbs (1360 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Small, specifically designed to accommodate the convertible roof and minimal luggage.
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
4 stars (for driver and passenger)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Acceptable (for 2000-2003 models)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) available on some trims.
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and Passenger Airbags, Reinforced windshield frame, Side-impact door beams.
Infotainment System:
Factory standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, or optional premium audio system. Limited integration by modern standards.
Driver Assistance:
ABS, Traction Control (optional).
Connectivity:
No advanced connectivity features such as Bluetooth or USB as standard.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped plugs.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as recommended by manual inspection.
Power Steering Fluid:
Toyota Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon ATF
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Known Issues:
Some reports of oil consumption in the 1ZZ-FE engine, especially if maintenance is neglected. Convertible top hydraulic system issues can occur over time. Suspension bushings can wear.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch, brake pads and rotors, tires, suspension bushings, and the convertible top fabric/mechanism.
Brand Heritage:
Toyota has a long history of producing reliable and innovative vehicles, including successful sports cars like the 2000GT and the previous generations of the MR2.
Model Evolution:
The third generation (W30) MR2 Spyder marked a significant departure from its predecessors, embracing a pure convertible, lightweight, mid-engine sports car philosophy, moving away from the turbo-charged performance of earlier models.
Production Years:
1999-2007 (for W30 chassis)
Manufacturing Location:
Toyota's Tahara plant in Japan.
