We’re talking performance not Police cars – and these MGs are arresting purchases

AT MG90, THERE WAS A LOT OF ZR AND ZS…

Yes, there certainly was and they are becoming strong value, modern day classics that are good affordable fun, as many happy owners are fast discovering.

WHAT ARE THEY?

Well to be blunt, they are not much more than warmed up old Rovers! The ZR was based upon the Rover 25, which was itself the old 200. However, MG engineers did a really fine job transforming how they drove. The chassis was completely retuned, for example, with springs that were forty per cent stiffer and 20mm lower. Engines included the 1.4 and 1.6-litre K Series with up to 158bhp on offer plus a O-Series turbodiesel for some DERV-drinking delights! Two trim levels offered; the + gained power windows, better seats, sunroof and so on. The car was updated in 2004 with a fresher look and better chassis, even a van version surfaced!

AND THE ZS?

The ZS may had been based upon the staid old Rover 400 but all those fancy spoilers and air dams it now wore weren’t just for go faster show you know… The ZS was designed with circuit racing in mind and it shows in the way it drives and handles, especially the delightful V6 version. Launched in 2001 it comes in 1.6 and 1.8 K-Series power (or with the aforementioned 175bhp 2.5 KV6) or a lusty 2.0 turbodiesel. Trim levels shadow the ZR and a similar revamp was carried out in 2004.

DOES THE ZR DRIVE OK, TOO?

Not half! The ZR is a proper, thoroughly well developed hot hatch that can hold its own against most rivals. All are zesty and the top 160 is very rapid; handling is well up to the task, too, particularly the 2004 revised cars. The ZR+ is extremely well equipped and there’s a surprisingly good following for the car as well as tuning parts and clubs. It’s much the same for the ZS.

BUT A BIT BOY RACER-LIKE AREN’T THEY?

Well it’s true that these models did look a bit boy racerish with their lurid colours and bodykits, but in many ways that’s also their appeal, especially with younger enthusiasts who like to customise them further. The roomy ZS is great for the enthusiast with a family to consider with good trim levels.

WHY ARE THESE CARS SO CHEAP THEN?

Probably because of the demise of MG Rover, plus the fact that they were based upon some aging and average cars, although MG certainly did a fair job of revamping them. They do have a bit of a stigma within the general trade but by ignoring this you can use this to your advantage because prices couldn’t be lower.

HOW CHEAP THEN?

We’ve seen quite respectable looking cars sell at auction for only a few hundred quid and £1500-£2000 is plenty to buy the best around, perhaps at a dealer offering some level of warranty protection.

WHAT’S THEIR FAULTS?

In the main, it’s that K Series engine and its tendency to pop head gaskets. That said, improved types are available to largely cure this fault for once and for all. A careful owner would best consider replacing the radiator and even the head gasket at 60,000 miles as a matter of course, if you want to protect your investment, because a new head and fitting probably outstrips the values of most cars.

ANYTHING ELSE?

Gearbox whine and wear is common and electrical (plus ABS) problems aren’t unknown. The CVT automatic is not really the best of its type and if it plays up may well render the car as scrap as repairs can run into thousands. The rapid KV6 engines can pose a major reliability concern, not least because parts are drying up, so check for a service history.

DO THEY MAKE GOOD TRACK DAY CARS?

Yes and that’s part of their problem as many cars out there have been thrashed and crashed, especially the ZR! Apart from track days, they also make effective cheap racers in dedicated MG championships – you can certainly have some fun with these modern MGs.

FUTURE CLASSICS?

The last of the traditional MGs, they stand a fair chance as does the ZT.