I've only owned the Crossfire for two weeks so I can't comment on reliability but I will say that the early model 350s did have some issues and 2003 doesn't get the sweet brakes they put on later.. and the MR2 is an interesting car being mid engine but the later the model year, the slower it got. I believe the Crossfire is quicker than the MR2.. if you're looking for light and fun, you'd be better off with a Miata than an MR2 but personally I chose the Crossfire because of its personality and uniqueness.. I did the same shopping around for the same cars as you and decided to buy an 04 limited 6spd coupe... I went older to get the limited and keep some cash for modifications