 237 hp in small roadster
Toyota are looking at fitting the 3.0 litre V6 from the Camry into the tiny MR2 Roadster, effectively creating a small roadster capable of taking on the mighty Porsche Boxster in terms of handling and performance. The current MR2 is a cracking little device, with nimble handling and a revvy little 1.8 smearing a smile across the face of the driver. The V6 powered version, however, could be a real white knuckle ride, considering how twitchy the light-weight 1.8 is at the rear.
The mid-engined configuration, combined with the extra weight of the V6, means that if the car makes it into production, it will have to have its suspension well sorted to prevent the small car gaining a reputation as a hairy drive. Mind you, with 237 bhp and 0-60 coming up in a WRX chasing 6 seconds or so, it's unlikely to be anything but hairy. Because of the lightness of the car, the power-to-weight ratio of the V6 MR2 will be over 200 bhp per tonne, which will give the car legendary performance.
Externally, there are new bumpers, skirts and wheels, while slightly bulged wings are needed to house the wider track necessary to harness the extra power. There are roll-over hoops behind the seats and the roof lives under a moulded plastic fairing when it's folded away. Inside the concept car, there are beefier seats and even more aluminium effect plastic than usual, but otherwise it's pretty much the same as the standard car.
The chances are the car will go into production, as the changes that need to be made to the original MR2 are minor and the V6 engine is already well proven in the Camry. The MR2 V6 will be expensive if it comes here, given that the standard 1.8 is €34,400 (IR£27,100). €40,000 seems a likely estimate, which is similar money to the WRX and Opel Speedster, and some way behind the €70,000 Porsche ask for the Boxster.
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