Topic

Hi everybody.

Possible F/TF owner in the not too distant future. I have just received a windfall and am thinking of an MG. Your thought on my dilema would be interesting. I have a 1992 MX5 MK1 that has been absolutely bullet proof so far and I have no intentions to sell.

Now I appreciate that the F/TF and MX5 are very different cars and should not be compaired but the MX5 is so reliable and I have no concerns on going out for a 200 mile jaunt. Can the MG be like this? I am happy to do basic servicing and general tinkering. I have a budget of up to £2000.

Also your thoughts on the merits of the F and TF in relation to each other would be valued.

Many thanks,

Duncan.

Hi Duncan,

welcome aboard!

Apart from a clutch (the same would apply for any car) the only real problem I've had is a fuel pump, my MGF has been very reliable.

Hi and welcome to the forum


While the MGF and TF have a reputation for problems like head gasket failures and other issues, these are in many ways undeserved - if correct attention to maintenance is observed.

Many forum members have one as their daily driver rather than a weekend and bank holiday car.

I personally have no qualms about a drive down to Spain in mine, and many owners frequently go on lengthy Europe trips without issue.

They also have the advantage of having abundant cheap parts, and are relatively easy to work on, unlike more modern sports cars that are pretty much unserviceable by your average spanner monkey home mechanic.

That said, it is worth commenting that many local garages simply don't know how to, or don't want to work on them due to the mid-engine layout as what is a straight forward job in a front or rear engined car becomes a bit of a challenge unless you are a pygmy or a contortionist. This tends to result in anything above an oil change getting a sharp intake of breath followed by a stupidly large quote.

There are however several specialist mobile mechanics who cover pretty much the whole country for work that the owner is not able to do, who charge far less than local garages so this should not be a hurdle as far as buying choices go.

For all lesser DIY jobs there is the wisdom of literally thousands of enthusiasts right here on the forums. It's rare that anyone comes up with a problem that no one else has seen and solved.

The bottom line : hell yes! Go for it!!

to the forum Duncan from John in Yorkshire.
I for one agree with all that g7nbp has said .

Hi and welcome to the forum.

Try several, buy from an enthusiast.

James

Hello and

A well maintained car should be very reliable. I'd happily drive mine anywhere in the country worry free.

I would recommend the low level coolant alarm, as problems with the cooling can take out the head gasket. There are a lot of hoses on the F and TF and due to the age of most cars failures are more likely.