Will the MR2 ever be a classic?

It think they definitely will. However Im not quite sure on what level they will be desired. Whether it will be just collectible to Toyota die hards or if it will be desired by people who love iconic Japanese sports cars. Nonetheless there is no doubt the MR2 of any generation are special and a true automotive enthusiast recognise this whether they like Toyota or not. 

With that said...I think it will only be the "special editions" (those that were slightly changed over the original) of the MR2 that will be truly desired. For example, the  revision 3+ hardtops will certainly be at the top of the list along with the Bathurst model and the GT models etc. not far under. 
 
But who really knows....we'll just have to wait and see. But even if they arent that desirable in the future; I will certainly be holding on to mine as I recognise how special they are and love all their quirks which include how challenging they generally are. 

Well to us & anyone that ever owned one & let it go, yes it'll eventually be sought after as they get rarer. All those former SW20 fans that let theirs go may one day be willing to pay well for good examples.

Just don't expect them to be as "collectable" as 2000GT's & AE86's.

I sure don't intend to let mine go.

Stock collectibles are usually quite old & have a very unique nature. The MR2's will likely follow the path of old American muscle cars. Tasteful modifications are certainly not penalised.

^ Keep telling yourself that :) There's still examples starting @ $2k & they're still kinda left in the AE86's shadow.
 
I prefer AW11's to stay that way (a secret) for now until I find a means/justification to buy another one......haha