For the second consecutive year, Hagerty published its Bull Market List of cars that appear to be rapidly increasing in value, the next crop of potential collectibles, if you will.  Included on the list is the first generation (1984-1989) Toyota MR2.  Let me just say I despise this list.  It makes me cringe.  It makes me uncomfortable and most of all it makes me angry.  Angry with myself for always being late to the future-collector-car-party.  But wait a minute, maybe it’s not too late after all?  Check out this silver metallic ’87 MR2, available here on Craigslist in Buffalo, New York, offered for a very reasonable $5,500!

Full disclosure: a friend of mine bought a beautiful red MR2 about five years ago.  He paid in the neighborhood of $3K for his car and has been happily driving it ever since.  That’s why I’m so irked, not to mention another friend who constantly reminds me he’s been floating on the bubble of a 1988 Porsche 911 he practically stole a few years back.  And then there’s my neighbor that’s somehow amassed an obnoxious collection of increasingly valuable Bronco II’s.  Yup.  In the race to invest in a future classic, I’m bringing up the rear.  Hey, does anyone out there have a Scout II or a Wagoneer they want to sell?  If not no problem, I’ll head over to BAT and plop down an insanely high bid for one and then pay through the nose to have it shipped!

Stored inside, this MR2 has never been subjected to the harsh Buffalo winters over the past 32 years, although the original paint does show some blemishes, according to the seller  As for the interior, the seller describes its condition as flawless.  The blue velour seats show no signs of wear and there are no cracks in the dash cover.  Amenities include cruise control, power windows, doors, mirrors, and a retrofitted R-134a AC unit.  If you’re wondering about safety features, the seller is quick to point out this MR2 comes with a pair of seat belts.  Unfortunately, as you can see, it’s driven by the optional 4-speed automatic transmission.  That low $5,500 asking price makes more sense now.

The mid-engine, rear wheel drive MR2 is powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder motor capable of producing around 112 hp.  Having to lean across the rear mini-trunk, it must be a bit of a pain to work on the motor.  Somewhat surprisingly, MR2’s were outfitted with manual steering, but handling is reported to be adept nonetheless.  The seller claims mileage is a true 60K (not rolled over) and the car is stock, with the exception of a MagnaFlow catalytic converter and a Torxe performance exhaust system.  Oil has been changed at 3K mile intervals and maintenance includes new plugs, wires, distributor cap, fuel/air filters, and rotors at 50K miles.  A new alternator was installed last year and the car comes with a fresh NYS inspection, Carfax report, recent receipts, and the original window sticker.  This looks like a great car but I think I’ll stay in the back of the pack for now and instead, wait for the opportunity to buy a 5-speed stick shift…more than likely at a much higher price!