New Zealander thought his Toyota MR2 Spyder was too slow so he built a version that shoots flames
- Automotive enthusiast boosts his Toyota MR2 Spyder
- He thought its stock 1.8L 138HP engine was too slow
- He replaced it but soon learned he needed to dial things back
Published on Feb 03, 2025 at 11:29 AM (UTC+4)
by Amelia Jean Hershman-Jones
Last updated on Feb 03, 2025 at 11:29 AM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
A New Zealand-based automotive enthusiast had a stroke of genius when he decided to give his Toyota MR2 Spyder a speed boost – and now it shoots flames.
The third-gen Toyota MR2 Spyder is a lightweight, mid-engine sports car.
However, its owner felt that it lacked power with its stock 1.8L 138HP engine.
So he got to work to give it the ultimate boost.
DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie
The Toyota MR2 Spyder that shoots flames
The automotive glow-up was done by Brad Glasgow, aka G Mech, from New Zealand.
Glasgow is known for his ambitious engine swaps and modifications – and this project was certainly no different.
He didn’t feel that the 138HP Toyota engine on the classic little sports car was enough to provide an exciting driving experience.
First up he decided to install a Mitsubishi 6G74 V6 from a Pajero, which while relatively tame had, Glasgow heavily modified with a big turbo for massive power.
The last-gen MR2 became violently fast, had a four-speed sequential manual, and even shot flames from the side exhaust.
The result? His simulated launch control with flat shift shows the MR2 blowing flames several feet from its side exhaust.
Sadly the V6 setup was too harsh, unreliable, and difficult to drive, so he made the decision that it was impractical for regular use.
An engine that shoots flames
“I don’t drive it much because it’s a bit of a pain in the ass, a hard starter,” he said about the car.
Instead, Glasgow opted to change that engine out for something more manageable, lighter, and easier to tune.
Namely, a turbocharged 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder from a first-gen Audi TT.
This sat alongside an improved transmission, with the MR2 Spyder now boasting a six-speed manual from a 2011 Volkswagen Passat diesel, including an LSD for better drivability.
It’s all about balance.
London-based Amelia cut her journalistic teeth covering all things lifestyle, wellness and luxury in the UK capital. Fast-forward a decade and the experienced content creator and editor has put pen to paper for glossy magazines, busy newsrooms and coveted brands. When her OOO is on you can find her spending quality time with her young family, in the gym or exploring the city she loves.
