Toyota MR2 (1984 - 1989)

Toyota MR2 Mk1
Life's empty without it!
It's an everlasting Toyota after all. Iconic and always remarked upon (more and more as they become fewer). The 5th gear thing; mine started popping out after HUNDREDS of thousands of miles, just needed a new gear box. Yes, a constant rust battle if kept outside and used regularly but you can keep on top of it if you're vigilant. Tail can step out in wet and ice if you're silly- just respect it, drive it properly and stop being a sloppy speed-merchant on corners. An absolute thrill to drive. Amazingly practical compared to what you'd think - buy a T-bar, you can take the roof off and put planks, Christmas trees and all sorts in it. T-bars can leak around the seals but can be fixed. My 1988 with 250K on the clock starts far better on snowy mornings that all my neighbours' new, fancy things. Engine sophisticated enough to be pokey and fun but basic enough to be more easily fixed than modern cars and less problematic because there's less technology to diagnose. Turns on a sixpence, beats most things away from the lights. Not bad on fuel for a 1.6 of old, non-green design. Maybe rust repairs cost, but that may be all you spend on it (no giant, costly light units and modern sensor problems!). The great Toyota thankfully still make some spares, some private businesses make bits and second hand parts can be recondioned or obtained mostly.