Anniversary celebrations at Toyota MR2 Drivers Club National Day

The Toyota MR2 Drivers Club’s National Day confirmed its status as one of the world’s largest gatherings for owners and fans of the classic model with more than 600 cars taking part in this year’s event in Coventry on Sunday.

The occasion celebrated three MR2 anniversaries: 40 years since the launch of the original model; 35 years of the second generation Mk2; and 25 years of the final Roadster. A strong turn-out was achieved despite weather conditions forcing a late change of venue to the Coventry Building Society City Arena.

Nik Milford, MR2 Drivers Club Director, commented: “Last year we had around 450 cars for our National Day and after this weekend I believe we can say it has become the biggest annual MR2 event worldwide. People have driven their cars from Europe and we’ve even had owners fly over from Australia. It’s an incredible response and we’re grateful to Coventry Building Society City Arena for being so accommodating.”

Mikkel and Jeanette  Keller drove more than 750 miles from Ølgod in Denmark in their 2005 Roadster and Thomas Vader made his second National Day visit in his modified Mk2 from Heerhugowaard in Holland. “There’s so much love here for the MR2, there’s nothing this big in Europe,” he said.

Australian Craig Atkins included the trip as part of his holiday itinerary. A technical operations manager for Toyota in Melbourne, he is on the committee of the Australian MR2 Club. He remarked: “The fraternity is much bigger here – it’s perhaps the biggest in the world.”

The MR2 Drivers Club was formed in 1990 for owners and enthusiasts to meet and share information and experiences.  It caters for all generations of MR2 regardless of modifications or condition.  The Toyota MR2 was introduced into the UK market in 1985 and was sold in three different generations until 2006. Its name reflects its key qualities: Mid-engine, Rear-wheel drive, 2-seater.  For information about the club visit https://mr2dc.com/

ENDS