Unique Toyota MR2 Roadster with Celica Front-End Transplant
A Unique Creation
A UK owner has created a one-of-a-kind Toyota MR2 roadster by transplanting the front-end of a Celica onto it. This mashup combines two distinct sportscars from the 2000s, resulting in a brain-bending creation.
The Transformation
The entire front clip of a seventh-generation Toyota Celica, including the bumper, hood, fenders, and aftermarket headlights, has been integrated into the MR2. The rest of the bodywork, interior, and underpinnings come from the third-gen MR2 donor vehicle.
Different Characters and Layouts
The Celica and MR2, although from the same era, have different characters and layouts. The Celica is a front-engined, front-wheel-drive 2+2 liftback coupe, while the MR2 is a mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive two-seater roadster. These distinctions result in different proportions and driving dynamics, defining the unique market positioning of these affordable sportscars.
Fitment Issues
Due to the mismatched parts, this unique build suffers from fitment issues, including wide panel gaps and misaligned components. The Celica’s longer hood and extended front overhang look awkward on the smaller MR2 body, and the wider width of the Celica makes it difficult to align the fenders with the doors. Overall, the fitment in this mashup is far from perfect, giving it the appearance of a post-fender-bender repair job.
Controversial Reception
This unique build has garnered mostly negative feedback since it was spotted in Paignton, England. While the full background of the build is unknown, it is speculated that it may have been based on damaged vehicles rather than chopping up a perfectly good MR2. Interestingly, this is not the first mid-engined roadster with Celica features, as another crazy build from the UK holds that title.
A Nostalgic Reminder
If this story has sparked nostalgia for the ’00s era of Toyota sportscars, you’re not alone. Rumors suggest that new generations of both the Celica and MR2 are in the works, with input from Toyota Gazoo Racing. We may see a revival of this sibling rivalry in the latter half of the decade.
