MGTF 2004 160 VVC.
Brief History.
The MG-TF replaced the MGF in 2002 and with it came a new look and new suspension geometry. The result is a beautiful tight drive. By that, I mean that it goes where you point it, when you point it and the gear change is crisp.
The new TF is more aggressive than its predecessor. The suspension geometry has been lowered by 10mm, which doesn't seem a great deal but makes a difference to the centre of gravity - important in a mid-engined sports car. The Sports Pack option lowers it by a further 10mm. The car seems to hunker down, ready for action. Further improvements include increasing the vehicle rigidity by 20 per cent.
As a result, the TF135, as tested is a much more 'together' car. As part of my test, I took it across London. In town traffic, the short-throw gear lever operating through a tight gate was a joy to use. The change itself is a little on the heavy side and all the more enjoyable for it. You actually feel that it is connected. The journey and the eventual tight parking were made easier with speed sensitive steering.
However, top-down motoring is the reason for buying the MG-TF. Getting the lid off is a manual operation. It is easily accomplished by freeing the rear window, undoing the front catches and folding it back. There is a hard-top option for the winter months but it takes two to fit it.
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.
