Basic Questions B4 Buying

[cmldesign]

Considering buying a MKII MR2 and wandering if you can offer some advice about them.

I am looking at one but how do I tell:

If it is UK or Jap Import?

Turbo or non-turbo? (sorry if this is a stupid question!)

Rev1 - Rev3?

It is a 91 H reg so probably a Rev1 but still not 100% sure. It seems the more I read on them, the more confused I get (hence the basic Q's). I have seen turbo's with non-turbo dashboards etc.

What are the engine differences? 3S-GTE, 3S-GE

Cheers for your help,

[T600]

how do I tell:

If it is UK or Jap Import?

Various ways, easiest is to check the registration date on DVLA website; if it's not 91 (in the case of your H plate example) then probably an import. Other clues are that all original tubbys are imports and also look for square rear plate on imports. Also many imports had toblerone shaped side repeaters, but almost everyone removes these, so not a great clue.

Turbo or non-turbo? (sorry if this is a stupid question!)

Well, Turbos have a turbo. From inside spot the boost indicator instead of voltage in the centre of the dash. From outside the raised louvres on the engine bay lid.

Rev1 - Rev3?

Hard to spot difference between a 1 or 2; smaller wheels on the 1 but otherwise not many visual clues, and of course wheels easily changed.

It is a 91 H reg so probably a Rev1 but still not 100% sure. It seems the more I read on them, the more confused I get (hence the basic Q's). I have seen turbo's with non-turbo dashboards etc.

Perhaps aftermarket turbo or retro-fitted non-tubby display?

What are the engine differences? 3S-GTE, 3S-GE

T = Turbo. But there are some internal differences to strengthen and provide more oil in the GTE too.

There are more clues besides these, but I think these are the main ones.