The MG TF is a mid-engine, roadster car manufactured and marketed by MG Rover from 2002 to 2005 and by SAIC Motor under its MG Motor marque from 2007–2011.
History of the MG TF
In 2002, the MG TF was released, named after the MG TF Midget of the 1950s. Based upon the MG F platform, but heavily redesigned and reengineered, the most significant mechanical changes were the abandonment of Hydragas suspension in favor of conventional coil springs, the new design of the air induction system that along with new camshafts produces more power than in MG F engines, and the torsional stiffness of the body increased by 20%. Various cosmetic changes include a revised grille, redesigned front headlights, bumpers, side air-intake grills, rear boot, etc. It held a decent amount of sales despite problems including uneven shut lines on the driver's door on models for the United Kingdom. Production was suspended in April 2005, when MG Rover collapsed. 39,249 MG TFs were built from 2002 until 2005.
MG TF GT (Concept Car)
Designed in 2005, at Dove in Norfolk by Peter Stevens and his team, at the same time as the Rover 75 Coupé, is the coupe MG TF, called the GT, similar to the Pininfarina-designed MGB GT. It was unveiled before MG Rover Group collapsed in April 2005, and was shown at several events such as the AutoRAI in Amsterdam, alongside other cars such as the MG XPower SV. When launched the car posed several problems. The first of the problems with the coupe is engine access which because the car is a mid-rear arrangement posed several problems and made the car hard to work on. The second problem is the KV6 powerplant which had to have a bespoke smaller fuel tank to fit in the engine bay as the standard fuel tank wouldn't fit. Former engineers at MG Rover reported that the car was close to entering production, and as soon as the end of 2005, the car could have been sold. However MG Rover went into receivership, and progress was halted.
Price
The price range for the MG TF varies based on the trim level you choose. Starting at $5,000 and going to $10,000 for the latest year the model was manufactured.
Features of the MG TF
Exterior Features
After six years on the market, the TF was refreshed. Its new headlights were covered with clear lenses and a sharper nose. Its turn signals were moved from the bumper inside the headlamps. A smaller, two-slats grille replaced the previously used one that featured a vertical bar for the octagonal MG badge. In the rear, only a keen eye for detail could have noticed a difference.
Interior Features
Inside, the British carmaker changed only a few details, such as the gear knob, steering wheel, and a few materials used. It already had financial problems, and simply there was not enough money to do all the changes.
Specs and Performance of the MG TF
Engines:
- 1.6 L K-Series I4
- 1.8 L K-Series I4
- 1.8 L K-Series VVC I4
The MG TF's 1.8L engine delivers 134 hp (100 kW) at 6,750 rpm and 122 lb-ft (165 Nm) of torque at 5,000 rpm. MG marketed the TF as a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicle, and it was available with a 5-speed manual transmission. The MG TF accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 kph) in 8 seconds, with a top speed of 131 mph (211 kph). Dimension-wise, the MG TF measures 3,962 mm (156 in) long, 1,651 mm (65 in) wide, and 1,270 mm (50 in) high. Its wheelbase measures 2,380 mm (93.7 in) and has a curb weight of 2,436 lbs (1,105 kg).
Release Date
The MG TF was released by MG Rover from 2002 to 2005 and by SAIC Motor between 2007 and 2011 for its MG Motor division.