Several different proposals were considered for an all new MG Sports Car. Rover finally decided in favour of project PR3, a mid engined two seater which in many ways was a break with MG’s traditions, yet as an affordable roadster using some saloon car components it also followed in the footsteps of most of the popular MG’s of the past. The engine was a developed 1.8 litre version of Rover’s K series, with an advanced form of variable valve control in the faster of two models, while the suspension was based on the Hydragas system of the Rover Metro or 100 series.

Much of the development work was completed before Rover Group was taken over by BMW in 1994 but the launch of the new model only occurred a year after the merger, at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1995. Named the MGF, the new model went into series production in Rover’s Longbridge factory in August 1995, and quickly became enormously in the home market as well as many export markets.

Specifications:

1796cc Mid-mounted Rover “K” series engine. Four valves per cylinder operated by double overhead camshaft and optionally, Rovers variable Valve Control system.

Five speed manual transmission with synchromesh on all forward gears.

Ventilated discs at front, solid discs at rear with ABS fitted as optional but standard on Australian models.

Length: 3910 mm
Width: 1780 mm
Height: 1270 mm
Wheelbase: 2380 mm
Weight: 1060 kg



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