mgft 135 sprint

To replace my wifes beloved 1985 Mini 25 with something a little more reliable and comfortable, we knew we had to retain a sence of fun. It wasn't long before the decision rest on a 2 seater convertable, especially after she saw this Trophy Blue MGTF at our local Rover dealership. Not convinced a Rover was the way to go, I took her to a Mazda garage to test drive the much raved MX5. However, the MX5 didn't have the same appeal and I was also a little dissapointed that at 5ft 11in, I lacked leg room and my head was higher than the windscreen!

So, back to Rover to test drive the car. Although a 135, this Sprint edition came with a hard top, Leather/Alcantara interior, chrome trim, 160 Alloy wheels and brakes plus the usual 160 extras.

Although the car is a re-designed MG F, for me the F's styling was too soft and something most men would shy away from. However the sharper lines of the TF work well, give it some much needed presence.

We have now owned the MG for nearly 3 years and I have to admit the usual Rover niggles still apply. The plastics used on the interior are thin and flimsy and the ride is far too harsh. Like most manufacterers, MG fall foul of confusing sports suspension with a rock hard ride!

On the up side, this is a fun car. Its comfortable for long journeys, easy to drive and has a big enough boot for the odd weekend away, so is practical and certainly good value for money. And of course, once the sun is shining its not long before your hooked on open top motoring!

Mark Borthwick
January 2007