My new Yamaha...sort of

[81xsproject]

I needed a commuter car something fierce for my 75 mile round trip commute and $4.39/g gas prices. I found this '89 Mid-engine Run-about 2-seater (MR2). Afterwards, I learned that Yamaha designed the head to make these little 1600cc motors have more performance. It's a pretty cool setup where each cylinder has to separate ports that lead to the two intake valves. One has a butterfly valve on it that stays closed until 4200 RPM. It keeps the velocity up on the lower end and allows more airflow when needed on the topend. It makes for a much funner commute and I'm getting 35 mpg in mixed city/hwy.

[motoman]

Looks to be in great cond. too 81XS. An interesting added note to the Yammy heritage.......our 2003 Ford Escape with the 3.0L V6 is ALL Yamaha. Dual-overhead cam 4valve and uses a timing chain, no belt. Now having 99,000 mi. on it, it's getting its first set of plugs changed. Maint. cost has been one front wheel bearing and two sets of wiper blades. Plenty of snappy power and 10,000ft. mountain passes do not faze its power. Looks like Yamaha scored for Ford.

[natemoen]

Have fun with that Jesse!

The Ford SHO V8 is basically all Yamaha too.

[tom clisham]

Funny you should mention that, Nate.

I've been considering a SHO V8 for my next combo family car & cruiser.

[81xsproject]

Yeah, I believe Yamaha Marine designed the SHO motor. Supposed to be an awesome motor with a long life (imagine that...).

Love the car. Super fun to drive. Yamaha wasn't the only on with their hand in it. The Lotus designed suspension is pretty awesome, too.