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MG Rover

MG Rover MGF

The MGF made its debut in 1995 - and a legend was reborn

July 2002

The MGF made its debut in 1995 - and a legend was reborn. This two-door convertible was the first 'proper' MG sports car since the MGB - apart from the limited production MGR V8 of 1993 - and had an all-new body.
Its monocoque shell housed a mid-mounted 1.8-litre 118bhp Rover K-Series engine, while Hydragas fluid-filled suspension made for a surprisingly supple ride.
Seven years later, the MGF is still a popular buy, despite being replaced this year by the similar looking but conventionally sprung MG TF. Early examples can now be picked up for less than GBP7,000
MGF checklist
* The most common fault is damage to the plastic rear screen, which is prone to cracking in cold weather.
* Front tyres can have uneven wear at the extreme edges. This points to an incorrect ride height, and the Hydragas system will need re-pressurising.
* The K-Series engine is reliable, but some head gaskets have failed.
* Leaking hoods can cause interior problems, so check seats and carpets for dampness.
Glass's view
Increased numbers of MGFs on the market are forcing values down, but they are still popular buys, especially in the summer months, according to trade bible Glass's Consumer Values.
My Rover MGF...
Martin Wood has owned his MGF for more than five years and is very happy with the car, which he says offers an ideal blend of comfort and sporting appeal.
"I bought the car to drive every day," explained the 43-year-old systems administrator from Reading, Berks. "But now it's a summer vehicle. My wife and I have three MG Maestro Turbos to drive in winter, so we only use the MGF for travelling around with the roof down and going on motoring holidays."
Martin's MG is an early VVC and has proved reliable, with no major faults. "I'm in the MG Car Club," he said. "It specialises in older cars, but there's quite a lot of support for the MGF now."

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The MGF is fun to drive, with sweet handling and lively performance. The VVC has a sportier exhaust note, but is more expensive. Avoid the Steptronic models unless you must have an auto

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VERDICT

    The MGF is fun to drive, with sweet handling and lively performance. The VVC has a sportier exhaust note, but is more expensive. Avoid the Steptronic models unless you must have an auto
 

OTHER EXPENSES

Depreciation:3
Running costs (ppm):44-53p
Insurance groups:11-17

HISTORY

    1995: MGF introduced. Two versions available. Standard car has 118bhp; VVC offers 143bhp, ABS and power-steering as standard. 1997: All models get power-steering and high brake light. 1998: Abingdon limited edition appears in Brooklands Green paint with a beige soft-top, leather trim and chrome detailing. 1999: Range revisions include Steptronic auto option, plus electric windows, restyled alloys, aluminium gearknob and surround, and an uprated sound system. 2000: A new entry-level MGF 1.6 launched, with 110bhp engine, 15-inch alloys and standard power-steering. 2001: Hot MGF Trophy 160 based on VVC launched with a 158bhp K-Series unit. Larger brakes, front and rear spoilers and different wheels added. Freestyle limited edition introduced.
    2002: MGF withdrawn to make way for the new MG TF.
 
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