MG ZT Saloon (2001 - 2004) 2.5 + (190ps) 4d (2003/03) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Summary
What does this car say about you?
It says I'm a man who likes something with a unique look about it. Let's face it, the looks are an interesting spin on a retro look.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Parents think I am nuts for having a 2.5 V6 but they love the overall drive of the car. Some say it looks intimidating.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes. These cars are a real bargain due to their low prices. Even if you have any issues, the low purchase price and the helpful owners' clubs out there mean owning one of these future classics is an affordable alternative to the run of the mill Mondeo/Vectra etc of the time.
What are you likely to buy next?
I'd have another ZT in a flash, possibly a ZT-T (estate version) if my family grew any larger. The Chrysler 300C is tempting.
-
Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£850
When did you buy the car?
August 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes, so much car for such little money. Mine was worth an RRP of £26,000 when new so to get it at less than ten years old for less than a tenth is a bargain to me!
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
I always loved the look of these cars, I used to work for a local MG garage as a part-time job whilst studying at college when these were new.
What was the dealer like?
N/a - private sale.
-
Driving it
What's it like to drive?
A dream. Yes, it's a big car but it feels as comfortable on country roads as it does on motorways. The handling is excellent and offers fantastic levels of grip. The steering is sharp which makes it feel very sporty indeed. My only issue is the ride can be a little rough over very bumpy roads compared to the softer Rover 75.
What's it like to park?
The boot is a funny shape and the sloping rear window mean rear visibility is limited. However, find a model with parking sensors and you're fine! The steering is weighted, but light at low speeds.
-
Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Yes, the water pump sprung a leak and the radiator fan died. The car had done 140,000 miles by this point and is still going strong at 148,000 miles. Radiator fan failure is a common well documented issue on all 75/ZT.
What's most practical about your car?
The huge boot makes this car perfect for carrying my daughter's pram and her car seat when she's not in the car.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The ATC (climate control) works really well. It doesn't blast you with cold air on a cold winters morning but will have you warmed up in no time when the car is up to temperature which doesn't take long at all.
