Auction RecapAugust 31, 2026

1989 Toyota AW11 MR2 sells for $21,500 on Bring a Trailer — was it a deal?

manuallow-mileagecollectorsuperchargedrwd

This 1989 Toyota MR2 Supercharged sold for $21,500, which is strong money given its mileage and specs, but it still raises eyebrows considering it went for 41% above the fair value estimate of $15,300.

The MR2 Supercharged is a rare find, especially in this condition. With just 70,000 miles on the clock, it features a lusty 1.6-liter inline-four engine paired with a five-speed manual gearbox. That supercharged setup gives it an edge in performance and reliability. The rear-wheel-drive layout adds to the thrill, making this a well-rounded package for those who crave a slice of late-'80s Japanese sports car fun. The striking white exterior and black leather interior, combined with T-top panels and pop-up headlights, make it a desirable option for collectors.

Now, onto the sale price. The bidding was heated with 33 bids, indicating strong interest in this MR2. However, the final price of $21,500 feels inflated compared to the fair value estimate of $15,300. That’s a whopping 41% above the benchmark based on comparable sales. While low mileage and the manual transmission are certainly attractive, they don't fully justify this premium in a market that’s been seeing some price corrections lately.

Community comments were insightful, especially from a seasoned Toyota manager who highlighted the car’s reliability and performance. They noted that the supercharger provides instant power with no turbo lag, and emphasized that the engine can handle high revs without issues. The advice to "drive the hell out of it” was a great reminder that these cars are built to be enjoyed. The comments also addressed common concerns about the MR2, like its T-tops not leaking, which is a plus for potential buyers.

For anyone on the hunt for a similar car, keep an eye out for maintenance records and originality. The seller provided a well-preserved example, including all the original parts and accessories like the sun shades and storage bags for the T-tops. Make sure to check for signs of rust, especially around the alternator, as moisture can be an issue. A thorough inspection can help you avoid the pitfalls and find a ride that not only looks good but performs well too.

See all Toyota AW11 MR2 listings on [Friday's Watchlist](https://fridayswatchlist.com/search?make=Toyota&model=AW11%20MR2).

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