My MR2 adventure started back in August 2009 when I decided to get a 2nd car to help keep the miles down on my funded Company Car.
I wanted something sporty & fun and the MR2 was ideal
I found one at a Toyota Main Dealer, it was a 2001 SMT with full UK bodykit & hardtop 35,000 miles in silver and was a great looking car
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I joined the Club after I had made the purchase and right away started to have nightmares about the potential oil burning monster I'd just bought !
I covered 23,500 miles in just under a year thoroughly enjoying every mile but you've guessed it over the last 5,000 miles it started to drink oil.
I knew what the cause was so I took it back to Mr T for a service and mentioned the oil use, they rang me that afternoon to say new short block engine needed £2,500 please.
I reminded them of my Toyota warranty, "we'll ring you back !"
That phone call was "it's a known fault so the warranty doesn't cover "
So after contacting Trading Standards and Toyota Finance, TS advised that the finance co if I didn't get anywhere would step in, they agreed to buy it back less £1,000 for my years use which I snapped their hands off to agree !
My 2nd was a privately bought 2003 in black with 37,000 miles on in which I covered 60,000 miles in 2years 9 months, the plan was to get Matt P to refresh the engine with a rebuild at 100,000 miles but that changed
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My 3rd MR2 and absolutely the best one by far was crafted by FGRob who spared no expense assembling a well thought out plan of mods to improve all aspects of the car
He sold it to S12vea, one of many Steve has owned ! and I was extremely fortunate to buy it from Steve after the birth of his daughter back in March 2013.
Apart from the Fidanza lightweight flywheel it was perfection performance wise and I've tried to add to its appearance as tastefully as possible like to think I've struck the right look
And now the reverse applies for use, last year I covered 4,000 miles all in the dry, it does not go out in the wet and is kept garaged
I will never sell it and hope to keep it on the road for many years to come !
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Engine Modifications:
Crower Stage 1 Cams (Monkey Wrench USA).
Fidanza lightweight flywheel
Zero - 4 into 2 Equal Length, tuned collector, Manifold SS.
Silverstone Performance De-cat pipe, fitted with 200 CEL Sports Cat.
Moroso Racing sump (baffled and extra capacity)
Blueflame Custom Twin Exhaust.
PPE Cold Air Induction system
Apexi Power FC (ECU) with Commander hand controller
Greddy Iridium 8 sparkplugs
C-One Engine Damper
Up graded serpentine belt tensioner (Alloy)
Carbon Mod's - Carbon fibre cam cover.
Mapping / Dyno by Noble Motorsport.
171 BHP - with dyno print out
Suspension
Tein MonoFlex Coilovers plus EDFC controller. (30mm drop)
Megan racing rear adjustable Tie bars C/W pillow ball ends (Camber, Toe and caster)
Standard front and rear Anti roll bars – nylon coated
Super Pro up-rated anti roll bar mountings
Twos R Us Heavy Duty front and rear Drop links
Brakes
EBC Dimpled / Slotted disc all round.
EBC Yellowstuff pads
DOT 5.1 brake fluid
Goodridge Stainless Steel brake lines
Gearbox
Standard 6 speed with Torsen LSD.
Speed Source solid Brass cable / gearbox link connection
TRD Short shifter
Wildermuller aluminium cage mounts
Redline MT90 Gear oil
Chassis
Standard 04 front and rear bracing
TTE centre cross brace
Cusco Front Top tower brace
C-One Rear Top tower brace
Exterior
Hardtop (winter months only)
Hartz Red mohair roof
Toyota GB full bodykit – Front spats with 3m Paint Protection film
TRD Rear spoiler (with blanking plate for brake light)
Zunsport full grille kit front, rear, side intakes & engine vent stainless steel grilles
Toyota JDM chrome windscreen surround and door mirrors
Side indicator chrome finishers
Full exterior GTechniq nano coating
Interior
Red Leather seats & trim
Celica GTS Red Edition steering wheel
TyrePal tyre pressure monitoring system
Piano black dash trim kit
Wildermuller aluminum H&V knob set
ChromDesign gear stick & speedo dials surrounds
ChromDesign Wind deflector.
Mongo's side window deflectors
Audio
Kenwood double din CD Player with MP3 / USB / Ipod / parrot handsfree
JL 500/3 Amp fitted in rear bin
Morel Maximo 6.5 inch 2way component speaker system
Underdash sub enclosure with JL Audio 6W3v3 Subwoofer
Wheels & Tyres
Rota GT3 lightweight
15x7 front – 195 x 45 Goodyear Eagle F1 Tyres
16x7 rear – 215 x 40 Goodyear Eagle F1 Tyres
I should of kept this one! Great car
I have one of Steve's cast offs too.
Where did you get the screen surround? I really like that.
Quote from: "Msp"I have one of Steve's cast offs too.
Where did you get the screen surround? I really like that.
Was a JDM part from Japan no longer available
As its nearly a year since I first posted my Readers Ride thought I'd update particularly as I'd thought there wasn't any more to do !
So firstly managed to obtain a set of JDM Chrome mirrors
Second despite utilising 2 bucket cleaning method was not entirely happy with the light swirling so got a full professional valet and application of GTechniq nano coating
Lastly today had the roof replaced with a red hartz mohair roof
Like to think it can now be regarded as Bernies car being mindful that it was originally FGRobs but as I've owned it now 3 and a half years it's now got my stamp on it !
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really like this car-drool
Really like the red roof Bernie
Roof up, I am not a fan of. For me, the chrome doesn't work with it as well. Sorry Bernie. s:-( :-( s:-(
I'd be interested in seeing with the roof down (when you can) and the seats exposed. :-) :-) :-)
Quote from: "StuC"Roof up, I am not a fan of. For me, the chrome doesn't work with it as well. Sorry Bernie. s:-( :-( s:-(
I'd be interested in seeing with the roof down (when you can) and the seats exposed. :-) :-) :-)
No worries each to their own Stu, idea was to be different and floats my boat, pik with top down
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Now THAT ^^^^ I am OK with Bernie. Looks how I hoped it would. s:bounce: :bounce: s:bounce:
As you say, main thing is you like it. s:-D :-D s:-D
In the main will be top down and pleased with the colour not an exact match but pretty close
Took some inspiration from a £100K Porsche I parked next to a while back wanted to freshen up the look and quite a few new cars run red roofs on black cars
The mohair roof is a step up from OEM
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Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Like twins now matey.
s:lol: :lol: s:lol:
Quote from: "StuC"Like twins now matey.
s:lol: :lol: s:lol:
Until he floors it !
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Loving the look you've created and looks in great condition, Sweet.
Where's the 'like' button...your Black Beauty looks stunning!!
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looking good Bernie.
Just out of interest how did you do the chrome mirrors / surround.
Quote from: ilovejapcrap on February 6, 2018, 21:51
looking good Bernie.
Just out of interest how did you do the chrome mirrors / surround.
They are both JDM original optional extras so are real chrome
The windscreen surround was on it already was purchased and installed by FGrob and I was fortunate to purchase the door mirrors a couple of years ago
They are no longer available so rare as hens teeth
Not seen this thread before, looking great Bernie I did think about a red roof but at the time of ownership it wasn't a priority.
Rob.
Quote from: FGrob on March 14, 2018, 14:28
Not seen this thread before, looking great Bernie I did think about a red roof but at the time of ownership it wasn't a priority.
Rob.
Thanks Rob she's still going strong I've had her 5 years this month glad you approve :-)
5 years!?!? Wow!
Did you pick her up just before Paris then?
Quote from: StuC on March 14, 2018, 19:19
5 years!?!? Wow!
Did you pick her up just before Paris then?
Yep Paris was 1st Club event
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Quote from: Bernie on March 14, 2018, 19:34
Quote from: StuC on March 14, 2018, 19:19
5 years!?!? Wow!
Did you pick her up just before Paris then?
Yep Paris was 1st Club event
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Nice trip that one. :D :D
I can just make Banana out at the back. Lol.
Yours looks in in tip top condition now just as it did then. Credit to you fella.
I remember being in front of you before we set off for the Versailles run. Prolly got a piccy somewhere.
Quote from: StuC on March 14, 2018, 20:50
Quote from: Bernie on March 14, 2018, 19:34
Quote from: StuC on March 14, 2018, 19:19
5 years!?!? Wow!
Did you pick her up just before Paris then?
Yep Paris was 1st Club event
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/8c6c9389dbe29fd97488cdfc81a2e81e.jpg)
Nice trip that one. :D :D
I can just make Banana out at the back. Lol.
Yours looks in in tip top condition now just as it did then. Credit to you fella.
I remember being in front of you before we set off for the Versailles run. Prolly got a piccy somewhere.
Your eyes must be tuned in to yellow Stu, I can't see it ;)
Your eyes must be tuned in to yellow Stu, I can't see it ;)
[/quote]
3 back from the Emerald green 10th car I think ;D
So just to update my RR genuine JDM chrome door handles and TTE Grandstand 16" wheels added
Now that looks a lot better. :) ;)
Cleaned up before going back in to lockdown
https://youtu.be/C1iFdBllOT8
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So a walk around of Black Beauty I did for the Drivers Club but turned out too long to download to messenger
https://youtu.be/T7E2m5BAT1g
Well just when I thought job done nothing left to do I was very fortunate to be in the right place at the right time to purchase The Holy Grail TTE bumper
I got Zunsport to make up a grille and nipped over to my body shop to discuss the fog lights and took the opportunity to snap a couple of piks
Unfortunately the lights are orange so I'm now on the hunt for white LED's to run as DRL's and the body shop need to do final checks and deep clean
To say the least I'm a happy chappy
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Looks smart mate and it will be difficult for the usual suspects to copy.
Looks great Bernie.
I thought you didnt get the one you were after? Is this another one?
Quote from: tricky1138 on January 15, 2021, 15:15Looks great Bernie.
I thought you didnt get the one you were after? Is this another one?
Yes another Rob Dawes on the FB group sold it to me
Quote from: Bernie on January 15, 2021, 15:20Quote from: tricky1138 on January 15, 2021, 15:15Looks great Bernie.
I thought you didnt get the one you were after? Is this another one?
Yes another Rob Dawes on the FB group sold it to me
So not as rare as we thought! ;) Well done on getting it though.
Really does suit your Black Beauty. Beautiful ;D
Quote from: Bernie on January 15, 2021, 14:42Well just when I thought job done nothing left to do I was very fortunate to be in the right place at the right time to purchase The Holy Grail TTE bumper
I got Zunsport to make up a grille and nipped over to my body shop to discuss the fog lights and took the opportunity to snap a couple of piks
Unfortunately the lights are orange so I'm now on the hunt for white LED's to run as DRL's and the body shop need to do final checks and deep clean
To say the least I'm a happy chappy
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Just perfect !!
Didnt think you could make it any better but you have :)
Hope you've kept the old bumper.
Number plate might not meet the new regs. ;)
Smart. Very smart.
Quote from: Ardent on January 15, 2021, 18:10Hope you've kept the old bumper.
Number plate might not meet the regs. ;)
Smart. Very smart.
Yes kept the old bumper
The Nr plate has legal size letters and spacing and is held on with heavy duty 3m heavy duty hook and loop tape only issue is no makers info but been like that for years and no MOT issues
That really finishes off the front so well! 8)
Quote from: Bernie on January 15, 2021, 19:17Quote from: Ardent on January 15, 2021, 18:10Hope you've kept the old bumper.
Number plate might not meet the regs. ;)
Smart. Very smart.
Yes kept the old bumper
The Nr plate has legal size letters and spacing and is held on with heavy duty 3m heavy duty hook and loop tape only issue is no makers info but been like that for years and no MOT issues
Just a little nod towards this post.
https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?msg=842662
I'm in the wait n see camp regards my stick on.
So far so good.
:) well if this was the work you have talked about doing about more body work then it has definitley paid off :) :)
even a makes it more rare as it is well done on finding that. :) :)
would i copy if i ever found 1 that front bumber ;D then yes i would :) :)
'well if this was the work you have talked about doing about more body work then it has definitley paid off :) :)
even a makes it more rare as it is well done on finding that. :) :)
would i copy if i ever found 1 that front bumber ;D then yes i would :) :)"
Took it to my body shop early Dec but they were snowed under before Xmas only got around to it this week I trust them completely and they got the panel gaps spot on
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So further update the apertures for fog lights in the TTE bumper are max 50mm I've sourced some 40mm LED's and they are now plumbed in to run as DRL's and dim 50% when main lights are switched on, they actually are quite bright pik was taken in bright sunshine
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I cant believe you took it out in the rain!
Looking very nice though...
Love that bumper
Looking spot on
When just quickly looking at the small pic, before tapping. From that angle. It reminded me of a performance jag. XKR?
Just looked more muscular.
Tiz a nice bumper.
Just to show it does go out on occasions lol
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And after coming 2nd in the previous event won best in Modified class at the MR2 Drivers Club National Day this year
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Looking good, Bernie.
You can see the dna in that second picture.
Congratulations on winning a cupholder!
Back in May took the 2 to one of the last Queens Square Breakfast Club meets at the Amphitheater as the Council will be bringing in the Low Emissions Zone later this year
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Doesn't the Mr2 meet the emissions?
Quote from: 1979scotte on September 18, 2022, 15:21Doesn't the Mr2 meet the emissions?
It does but many of the older classics that attend don't
Quote from: Bernie on September 18, 2022, 15:49It does but many of the older classics that attend don't
Oh really.
Does it effect all classics?
Even say a model T I was expecting them to be exempt.
Quote from: 1979scotte on September 18, 2022, 18:21Oh really.
Does it effect all classics?
Even say a model T I was expecting them to be exempt.
It's going to be a permanent zone from 29th November charged at £9 per day so the organisers won't be continuing with the meet
https://urbanaccessregulations.eu/countries-mainmenu-147/united-kingdom-mainmenu-205/bristol
Well the 2 has been with me 10 years now, pik when collected
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Changed a bit since
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Still looking excellent, Bernie!
My V6 is a couple of weeks off 10 years ownership for me but sadly hasnt shrugged off the years like your car has.
Quote from: Bernie on April 2, 2023, 17:35Well the 2 has been with me 10 years now, pik when collected
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Changed a bit since
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Still a beauty.
Quote from: Topdownman on April 2, 2023, 18:51Still looking excellent, Bernie!
My V6 is a couple of weeks off 10 years ownership for me but sadly hasnt shrugged off the years like your car has.
Mine certainly didn't.
Gave the 2 a bath ready for Simply Japanese at Beaulieu on Sunday, not bad for 19 years old, I'm afraid it's taken a back seat to the Avantime this year, that's been to 2 shows in France, 1 in Scotland and a few local ones and since MOT last Aug the 2 has only done 57 miles
Guess the Avi got more love, must try harder or get rid but wouldn't ever get what I would want to tempt me to move it on, no not a sales thread !
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https://ibb.co/TL254Q4
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:) you can never go wrong with a good bath especially when you have a good garage to lay one to rest well when not being used 8) 8)
its a keeper for sure 8) 8)
Looking forward to seeing you and your gorgeous 2
@Bernie tomorrow. Let's hope the roads dry up abit by tomorrow morning. :'(