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May 10, 2008
MGTF | MG Rover TF
2002 MG Rover TF
Introduced 2002 – 2005 (39249 produced) 2007 – (production ongoing)
The MGTF was the UKs best selling two seat sports car for each full year of production, taking this mantle from the MGF. Introduced in January 2002 the TF is a practical, reliable and very economical 2-seat sports car just what MG tradition is based upon.
Available with a range of K series 4 cylinder petrol engines starting with the 114ps 1598cc, then moving through the 120ps and 136ps 1796cc Mpi versions to the range topping 160ps VVC engined version. All models use sports close ratio manual gearboxes except for the 120 Stepspeed, which uses a CVT based unit with full auto operation or six manually selectable stepped ratios, for those looking for an more interesting auto option.
Although based upon the MGF, the TF is very considerably different from it. From the high performance twinned projector headlamps in the aerodynamically redesigned front, to a steel spring suspension with precise damping control. Therefore the TF provides a very different experience to the MGF, it is harder edged and more involving, although the 2005 model year cars were softer riding. This is carried further with the option of a sportier and lower optional suspension system. There is also the option of cutting edge braking with large 304mm front discs, clamped by AP Racing 4 pot calipers (standard on 160 models).
There is a wide range of external colours, with many options for the exterior and interior, including a number of coloured hoods. Of specific note is the facelift for the 2005 model year cars which not only gave a softer ride, similar to that of the MGF, but also the adoption of a glass rear window in the hood that although smaller in area than the previous acrylic one, gives better visibility, plus it comes with standard heated elements.
Following the collapse of MG Rover in 2005, Nanjing Automobile Corporation bought the tangible assets and took an extended lease on the main car producing part of the Longbridge factory site and started to produce their version of the MG TF there in the second half of 2007. At the same time TF models were also being made in a huge new MG factory built in Nanjing China. Initially the 2007 TF will be powered only by a Euro IV specification N series (nee K series) with 136bhp.
Brief technical specifications…
Mid engine - Rear wheel drive
4 cylinder 1598cc (115ps – TF 115) and 1796cc (120ps – TF 120 CVT, 136ps – TF 135 and 160ps – TF 160) K series petrol engines
5 speed manual or CVT Stepspeed transmission with manual option with six stepped ratios.
All models equipped with alloy wheels and most having a space saver steel spare. Alloy wheels either 6”x15” with 185/55x15 front, 205/55x16 tyres rear, or 7”x16” with 195/45x16 front and 215/40x16 tyres rear. Note specifically that this model is especially sensitive to tyre choice.
Performance…
Top speeds 115mph to 137mph
0 to 60 mph 10.3 seconds to 7.3 seconds
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