MG TF vs Mazda MX-5

Reborn, rejuvenated and ready to take on the world – MG is back in the UK! It has been three long years since the gates of the Longbridge factory in Birmingham closed for the last time. But now, the production line is up and running again, thanks to the brand’s new Chinese owner, Nanjing. And it’s time to put the first fruit of the Far Eastern MG to the test.

To get the firm back on its feet, the debut model to roll out of the Midlands plant is a redeveloped version of the TF roadster. Pretty styling and a mid-engined layout made it a success in the Nineties, but does it still offer a winning formula in 2008? Last week (Issue 1,028), avid MG fan Simon Robinson delivered his verdict when Auto Express invited him to take the wheel of the drop-top. He gave it a big thumbs up. Yet if there’s one model that could stand between the TF and success, it’s the Mazda MX-5.

A long-established class leader, the Japanese roadster has been replaced by an all-new third- generation model during the TF’s absence. Prices for the Mazda start at £15,750 for the basic 1.8-litre fabric-topped version. However, if you want a leather-trimmed steering wheel and gearknob, plus 16-inch alloys, you will need the £16,550 Option Pack model tested here.

Buyers of the well specced MG pay £16,399. Only one variant is available for now, powered by a 1.8-litre petrol engine. To celebrate the relaunch of the famous marque, the first 500 models will be badged LE500 – and this will ensure exclusivity for those willing to take the plunge with the firm’s new owner. We find out if the MG comeback has been worth the wait.

Verdict

The TF is the car everyone is talking about, and its popularity is already assured – nearly all 500 LE500 special editions have been sold. Put it head-to-head with its class-leading rival, though, and it soon shows its age. While the TF is still a desirable roadster, the MX-5 is way ahead for dynamics, engineering and design.

At every turn, the MX-5 has continued to evolve with Mazda’s sustained investment and development. In contrast, under MG Rover’s stewardship, the TF was allowed to go stale.

An entry-level car will appear by the end of the year, and this will be a better choice. While the long kit tally makes the MX-5 look basic, the LE500 struggles to compete at this price.

With the support of loyal fans and a raft of all-new models in the pipeline, MG’s comeback is sure to be successful. But the TF is unlikely to lift the brand back to glory single-handedly.