2001 – 2005 MG ZT

Posted on 03.2.2007 19:00 by Simona

The MG ZT is a high-performance version of the Rover 75 executive car, produced by MG at their Longbridge site in Birmingham. They also manufactured estate versions of the vehicle, referred to as the MG ZT-T. Styling is similar to the 75, although uprated springs and chassis modifications make for a far firmer ride.

Production of the cars ceased in 2005 amidst financial turmoil at MG Rover.

The MG ZT seamlessly combines sophistication with the kind of unadulterated pleasure that is drawn directly from MG#8217;s racing and engineering heritage. You don#8217;t park an MG, you simply allow it to rest until next time. You see, for the driver, this enjoyment, power and affordability makes MG a choice from the heart just as much as the head.

MG ZT has been created by integrating exceptional engines with an extraordinary chassis and suspension system to deliver a car of outstanding dynamic ability.

Feed an MG ZT through a tightening radius and the combination of balance and grip will demonstrate that ZT can be both a rewarding cruiser and a sporting thoroughbred.

The new MG ZT makes a statement telling you that the word #8217;subtle#8217; isn`t in its vocabulary. The word #8217;muscular#8217; definitely is though. As are #8217;larger than life#8217;, #8217;imposing#8217;, #8217;extrovert#8217;, #8217;breathtaking#8217; and #8217;motorsport-inspired#8217;.

Everything from the sleek bumpers to the alloy wheels, imposing mesh grille and distinctive headlamps display a bold and confident stance that perfectly matches the driving experience.

MG ZT 260

The impressive 4.6 litre V8 engine in the MG ZT 260 delivers a uniquely mature, muscular interpretation of true high performance. You#8217;ll love the fact you#8217;re a mind-blowing 6.2 seconds away from reaching 60mph from rest, with a top speed of an awesome (electronically limited) 155mph. #8217;Wow#8217; is the only word.

Rob Oldaker, MG Rover Group#8217;s Product Development Director, commented: The MG ZT 260 V8 demonstrates our commitment to deliver cars of true pedigree and character. This is a truly rewarding car to drive. Our choice of a big, torquey engine has been vindicated as this is a deceptively quick and efficient cross-country car.

The more you drive it, the more you appreciate its unique #8217;muscle car#8217; character that flies in the face of our competitors#8217; trend towards buzzy high-revving engines.

The ZT 260 utilises Ford#8217;s proven 4.6-litre V8 engine, widely used in North America to power the iconic Ford Mustang. Modifications have been made to the powertrain to assist in packaging the engine while MG#8217;s engineers have also developed new intake, exhaust and emissions control systems to ensure the vehicle complies with stringent European noise legislation with no loss of power or torque. A new electronic engine calibration helps ensure the car exceeds current European emissions legislation.

The exhaust system, twinned for most of the length of the car, is distinguished by new quad-tailpipes. Outside the system produces a classic V8 burble, while inside the cabin remains quiet until aroused by the throttle when it resounds to the sporting note of a true thoroughbred.

Hands Free In Car Telephone Kits

It was never a good idea to drive with one hand and use your mobile phone with the other. But soon, the penalties for doing so will increase significantly. Heavier fines and penalty points on the driver#8217;s licence are the likely outcome of present proposals before Parliament.

Mindful of this – and of safety – MG ZT now comes pre-wired for the easy integration of a range of optional Pama hands-free telephone kits, bespoke to MG and which work with about 90% of the handsets currently in use. Fitting is quick and easy – and your MG Dealer will advise on costs and suitable options.

History and model range

In 2001, 3 years after the launch of the Rover 75 and less than a year after the de-merger of MG Rover from BMW. the MG ZT and MG ZT-T were launched. During the cars development, the models were codenamed X10 and X11 for the sedan and estate versions respectively. The design of the car was based on the Rover 75 but with a more aggressive and sporting look.

Peter Stevens, designer of the McLaren F1, took the lead role in the cars design.

In 2003, the 260+ version of the car was launched (codenamed X12 and X13 for the saloon and estate versions respectively), utilising a 4.6 litre V8 from a Ford Mustang. The model also had to be converted from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive, and was largely engineered by motorsport and engineering company Prodrive. The 4.6 version is regarded as a true Q-car.

Also in 2003, the MG ZT-T became the World#8217;s Fastest Estate car / Station Wagon with a top speed of 225.609 mph (360.9 km/h). It achieved this at 55th annual Bonneville Speed Week Nationals, on the Salt Flats in Utah, USA.

In early 2004, MG facelifted the design of the ZT and ZT-T to a less retro look at the same time as the Rover 75.

MG ZT range

There are three different trim levels in the MG ZT range, offering exceptional choice and value. Select a model below to find out more, or alternatively compare all models on the MG ZT comparison table.

MG ZT – features include:

Four airbags; driver, passenger and seat side airbags

Electric front and rear windows

Air conditioning with pollen filter

Sports styled shaped seats

17 inch 5-spoke alloys

CD-Tuner with 6 speaker system

MG ZT+ – additonal features to ZT:

ATC air conditioning with pollen filter

18 inch Grid Spoke alloys

Sports styled seats in Axis part leather trim

SmartNav with MG Personal Assist

6 disc CD autochanger

MG ZT SE – additional features to ZT+:

Xenon headlamps

Cruise control

18 inch Apex alloys

Message Centre including Traffic Alert

Highline Navigation including TV

Black leather seats; front electric and heated