1992 Mr2 runs bad when cold.

[Cap'n 2jz]

When you first start the MR2 up in the morning, it often has to turn over quite a few times and sputters a little bit before starting up. Then once running, the engine is sluggish until it warms up. You step on the gas but it doesnt want to go.

1992 Mr2 from Japan
3SGTE 152,000 kms
Manual Tranny

I read in the service manual that it could be caused by a couple of things.

Bad fuel filter
Ignition
Vacuum leaks

But I was also thinking, could it be that the shaft on the turbo isnt fully free until the oil warms, indicating a worn turbo?

what could be the most likely cause of the car running badly when cold?

I cant check anything right now because this is my girlfriends car and when she leaves in the morning, she leaves. I'm going to try and do a little diagnosing tomorrow morning (labor day yay!) and see if I can pin point something. For the time I just want to know if you guys have any suggestions for me. thanks

It also has another un-related problem. You can leave the car on acc. or "on" for more than 10 minutes without it draining the battery.
I tested the current making it to the battery when the car is running. 14 volts. So its not a charge problem. And the weird part, if you shut it off any don't play with the radio, it will start every time. why?

[80's Toy Nut]

My first guess with this sort of thing is always ignition. If it is worse in the morning then I bet it is a loose plug wire or worn cap/rotor. When the morning dampness is on them they do not fire as well and it will run like crap until they dry out some. My new one did exactly this until I reseated the plug wires. Now it jumps to life when you start it.

Also double check the ignition timing.

[Cap'n 2jz]

the cap and rotor are under 6000 kms, I have to check the resistance on the wires and check for any cracks. whats more of a concern is why it runs that badly while driving until its warm