MG TF (2002 - 2005) 1.8 16v (135ps) 2d Owner Review

Returning to MG after many years of nobel marques. I didn't want the poor brakes etc. of the 70's MG's. This car is what it was supposed to be, a car for the enthusiast, cheap, fantastic looks, great handling, simple, individual/rare (Austria). I disagree with most of the reports from the spoilt car press reporters, it's a bl...y good car. The only niggel is the pedals are too close to the floor, being in too near to the middle of your foot (I have size 7!). The boot/rear is high making judging distance when reversing difficult (today's car trend!!), but not a real issue. Badges fade... so? They are cheap to replace. Would I buy again, yes, probaly the 160 for the beefier brakes and wheels plus that tad more power. Power is however adequate and just right for the backroads/twisties where it belongs. Good low down torque and likes to rev. Gear ratios, selection and steering precision and ballance perfect. The car sticks and goes round on rails. Under steer? = warning that you are over cooking it. Wax underbody and cavity protection will stop/prevent rust, MG-Rover missed there. Trim issues, same as cars of the era and class. I like the simple dash layout other than the heater knobs that seem to have come off a kids kitchen. Seating position is good, don't listen to those about too high seat, leg room, steering wheel issues. I am normal slim(ish) 5'10" and it is perfect for me. Complaints about wind noise, come on it's a cabrio!!! I cannot comment about reliability, but there is a fix for the head gasket issues and thermostat and practically all parts are readilly available for these gems, cheap to boot too. So if you are handy with spanners, it's easy, go out and get one and laugh at those that didn't. You'll be smiling all the way.