The MR-2 was a 2-seater mid-engine car produced from 1984 to 2007

Second generation (MKII) SW20/SW21/SW22 (1990-1999)

Released in 1990, the MR-2 had undergone a complete redesign from the original AW11. The car had been lengthened and widened, classifying it as a GT-car. The new stylings had given it smoother body lines, and the design was very advanced. The new design gave it it's nick name the poor man's Ferrari, as it had a striking resemblance to the F355 Ferrari. Available with a Naturally Aspirated or Turbocharged engine, producing up to 225PS (222hp/165kW).

In 1994, the JDM MR2's got an updated 3S-GTE engine that produced 245 ps (242hp/180kW) and was able to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.6 s. This update also saw some other engine and suspension upgrades for each model. A slightly smaller CT20b turbocharger replaced the CT26 unit, however the CT20b provided better flow and allowed an increase in power. The Japanese 3S-GE was upgraded to 180 PS (178 hp/132 kW), and 3S-GTE upgraded to 245 PS (242 hp/180 kW). While the turbocharged 3S-GTE engine remained the same, the JDM naturally aspirated 3S-GE engine was equipped with Toyota's VVT-i system which allowed the timing of the intake camshafts to be modified according to the engine's rotation speed and load.

The SW20 is a popular base for the aftermarket for its exotic look and mid-engined handling characteristics. Drag and Grip/Circuit racing is the common tuning genre for the SW20 chassis. The 3S-GTE engine packs a puch and is a great base engine to tune to put out impressive amounts of horsepower. A notable tuner of the SW20 is Border, which has a catalog of parts ranging from turbo kits to a full aero kit/body kit available for the MR2.