Overview

The Toyota MR2 GT-S Manual Black 1996 is everything enthusiasts love about 1990’s Japanese sports cars. Mid engined, rear wheel drive, lightweight and fitted with a 5 speed manual gearbox, the SW20 MR2 delivers one of the purest driving experiences Japan ever created. Finished in black with a grey interior, this example has covered 114,843km / 71,363 miles and carries a respectable Grade 4 auction rating, making it an exciting opportunity for somebody looking to own an iconic analogue sports car from Japan.

Auction Information

• Auction House: Tokyo
• Auction Date: 28th May 2026
• Auction Grade: 4
• Interior Grade: B
• Mileage: 114,843km / 71,363 miles
• Transmission: 5 Speed Manual
• Engine: 2.0L Mid Engine Petrol
• Exterior Colour: Black
• Interior Colour: Grey
• Drive Type: RWD
• Auction Start Price: Approx. £6,000
• Autoselecta Guide Price: £10,500 to £11,500

All bids must be submitted before 9PM UK time on the 27th May.

Why The Toyota MR2 GT-S Is So Special

The Toyota MR2 GT-S sat near the top of the SW20 range and remains one of the most exciting affordable Japanese sports cars ever built. Unlike front engine rivals from the same era, the MR2 used a true mid engine layout which transformed the way the car handled. The balance, steering feel and agility make it feel far more exotic than its price tag suggests.

Toyota engineered the MR2 to compete with much more expensive European sports cars while maintaining Japanese reliability and usability. The lightweight chassis combined with rear wheel drive traction creates a driving experience that feels alive at every speed. Even today, the MR2 GT-S still feels special every time you sit behind the wheel.

Then there is the styling. Pop up headlights, compact proportions and unmistakable 1990’s design give the SW20 a timeless look that continues to attract enthusiasts worldwide. Cars like this are disappearing quickly, especially manual examples that have not been heavily modified or abused.

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Vehicle Condition And Factory Features

This Toyota MR2 GT-S Manual Black 1996 presents honestly for its age and mileage. Auction Grade 4 examples are generally considered solid enthusiast level vehicles and this car appears to have been enjoyed properly throughout its life rather than hidden away unused.

The auction sheet notes the following:

• W2 repair marks and paint imperfections around multiple panels
• U1 and U2 dents
• Interior dirt and wear
• Minor underbody surface rust
• Various previous cosmetic repairs

These marks are very common for a nearly 30 year old Japanese sports car and nothing appears excessive considering the age and mileage of the vehicle. This is exactly the type of usable classic many enthusiasts prefer because it can actually be enjoyed without fear of adding miles.

Japanese Auction Grades

Factory and upgraded equipment includes:

• 5 speed manual gearbox
• T-bar roof
• MOMO steering wheel
• Air conditioning
• Power steering
• Power windows

Mid Engine Fun That Modern Cars Cannot Replicate

One of the reasons the Toyota MR2 GT-S continues to rise in popularity is because very few modern cars offer this type of driving experience anymore. Sitting low to the ground with the engine directly behind you creates a unique feeling that immediately makes every drive feel special.

The SW20 MR2 feels mechanical, responsive and connected in a way modern performance cars often struggle to replicate due to added weight and electronic systems. The compact dimensions make it incredibly fun on tight roads while the mid engine balance gives the car impressive cornering capability.

Even if you never drive it hard, simply owning and experiencing a proper 1990’s Japanese sports car like this is something special.

Import Your Dream Japanese Sports Car Through Autoselecta

At Autoselecta.com we specialise in sourcing and importing genuine Japanese performance cars directly from Japan while helping customers save thousands compared to buying through UK dealers. On average customers save between £10,000 and £15,000 by importing directly through our service.

We handle the complete process including:

• Japanese auction bidding
• Vehicle inspections
• Shipping and logistics
• Import duties and taxes
• UK registration
• Underbody preparation
• Paint protection and detailing options
• Nationwide delivery

We also now offer extended warranty packages for imported vehicles, giving customers extra peace of mind when buying classic Japanese performance cars.

Whether you are looking for an MR2, Skyline, Supra, Evo or Subaru STI, our team can help you source the right car directly from Japan.

Why Japanese Classics Continue To Rise In Value

Cars like the Toyota MR2 GT-S represent an era of driving that manufacturers no longer build. Lightweight sports cars with manual gearboxes, naturally responsive steering and minimal driver aids are becoming increasingly rare.

The SW20 MR2 continues to gain popularity worldwide because enthusiasts are rediscovering how rewarding these cars are to drive. Clean manual examples are becoming harder to find each year, especially cars that remain close to original specification.

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