VINTAGE STYLE
Sergey’s 1993 Toyota MR2
Words: Ginash George
Photos: Ginash George (Synth19 Photo) & Mike Maravilla (Unscene Media)
Video: Mike Maravilla
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From the late 60’s to the early 70’s, Toyota was a young company with one mission: build solid cars to meet social and economic demands. With the help of W. Edwards Deming, Japan rose from the ashes of postwar mediocrity to achieve a symbiotic balance between quality and cost effectiveness. A prime example of this paradigm shift can be easily recognized when observing Toyota’s rise in the automotive industry.
During the 1973 Oil Crisis, consumers in the US market began turning to small, efficient cars with better fuel economy. American car manufacturers had considered small economy cars to be an “entry level” product, and their small vehicles employed a low level of quality in order to keep the price low . Thus, the age of the imports began. With a growing customer base and improved reputation, Toyota was finally in a position to increase global market share and take calculated risks. One so called risk was the Toyota MR2. The MR2 had “family” origins, but the concept of an enjoyable car with decent fuel economy evolved into one of Japan’s most celebrated sports cars.
By the time Sergey became of driving age, he fell in love the first time he spotted the Toyota SW20 chassis. Having always been interested in rare cars, owning a unique mid-engine vehicle was a natural marriage. However , an interesting phenomenon often discussed on MR2 forums is “MR2 Regret.” Perhaps it shouldn’t be defined this dramatically, but it can be described simply as selling your prized MR and then later having the urge to come back to it. Sergey fits this phenomenon to the “T”. His current ’93 is not only the third MR2 he has owned, but arguably his best. There was a brief moment of infidelity when Sergey picked up a WRX, but as much as he liked the Subie , he knew that the MR2 was his true love .Like most individuals who have a passion for cars, most of Sergey’s free time was consumed with research before and after he picked up his first MR2. Could this be a car he could daily? Was the aftermarket support there?
Having owned three MR2s, Sergey’s experience, hard work and dedication has paid dividends in his current car. Sergey’s vision and strategy is easily reflected in his build. Sergey’s current MR2 was a naturally aspired factory Super White II model. Although this would have been a dream for any legit MR2 junkie, Sergey couldn’t keep it stock for long.
Sergey wanted to build a complete car that was not only aesthetically pleasing, but performed well in many adverse conditions. A 3SGTE was a natural upgrade and the paint eventually transformed from white to Macadamia Metallic Paint. And oh, you may notice a hint of blue flake.
It’s hard to believe that his car once pranced around in Chicago’s harsh winters. This is now a thing of the past as Sergey placed much of the focus this year on the body. Because of his interest for rare parts, it was not easy putting this gem together.
Many tuners make mistakes in car builds, mismatching parts with no flow. This is not the case with Sergey’s MR2. The Kaminari front lip fits seamlessly with the Border side skirts and rear valences. Working towards the back of the car, one cannot miss the unique Bomex Whale tailwing while a custom rear diffuser and updated taillights adds subtle aggressiveness that finishes off the rear. Other subtle changes on the exterior include shaved moldings, badges, and rolled fenders to accommodate the aggressive wheels .
Obviously not a traditionalist, Sergey went with SSR SP1 Professor wheels with a SBC/Polish finish in 17×9.5 +0 for the front and 18×10.5 -5 in the rear. The Professors are wrapped in stretched 205/40/17 tires up front and 235/35/18 out back. The wheels in combination with a modified set of Apexi N1 coilovers really define this car. It is definitely not a look that Kiichiro Toyoda would have approved of at the factory, but you can bet he would smile at Sergey’s innovation and personal touch. We dare you to find another MR2 with such perfect contours and stance.
If you look at the interior, Sergey made some contemporary upgrades, yet maintained the original design of the MR2. Recaro SR3’s keeps him in check while simultaneously adding style points with reupholstered microfiber inserts. The microfiber was also added to the door panels to finish the look. An OMP Corsica steering wheel are the reins for the car while an Autopower roll bar provides roll protection and increased body rigidity.
From a performance standpoint, Sergey upgraded the factory clutch to a Spec Stage 2. His power is regulated by an Apexi boost controller, Aussie downpipe, and custom 3″ exhaust by Vinny at his Destruction Warehouse. Stopping duties rely on a MR2 Turbo’s brake system .
With good weather and nice days finally with us, Sergey plans on driving his summer cruiser as often as possible. His car is almost complete, but we bet he’ll go through several more wheels to keep things fresh. For the future, Sergey plans on focusing on the engine bay a tad and possibly getting some additional power through methanol injection and/or a larger turbo. We look forward to seeing Sergey keeping the legacy of the MR2 alive, albeit in his non-traditional way.
Props:
-Vinny @ Destruction Warehouse
-Josh Brehmer for paint
-Leo @ Great Lakes Autobody for various projects and use of the shop
-Angela for helping out and support
Mods:
Engine
3rd Gen 3sgte Swap -originally N/A
Spec Stage 2 clutch
Walbro 255 fuel pump
3inch Aussie Down pipe
HKS intake
3inch custom exhaust done by Destruction Warehouse
Apexi AVC-R boost controller
Body
Macadamia Metallic Paint with blue flake added
Kaminari front lip
Border Sides
Border rear valences
Bomex Whale Tail Wing
Custom Diffuser
94+ Tailights
Shaved Moldings
Shaved Antenna
All badges shaved
Rolled and pulled fenders
H4 headlight conversion
HID Kit
Suspension/Wheels/Brakes
Apexi N1 Circuit Evolution Coil overs extensively modified by
Destruction warehouse
OBX Camber Bolts
SSR SP1 Professor wheels-SBC/Polish finish
17×9.5 0 w/205 40 17 18×10.5 -5 w/235 35 18
93+ Turbo Brake system
Interior
Recaro SR3 seats re-upholstered with Brown Micro Suede
Door panel inserts re-wrapped with Brown Micro Suede
Autopower Roll Bar
OMP Corscica steering wheel
Works Bell short hub
LED dome lights
Gauge cluster Re-done in Red
High Res Gallery:
Video:
JDMC Feature: Sergey’s SW20 from Unscene Media on Vimeo.
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