2001 MG F Mk II review from UK and Ireland

The car became lop-sided due to leaks in the hydrogas suspension cylinders at the rear. This required two (lengthy) stays with the MG dealer, though the problem seems to have been finally rectified under warranty.

Passenger door jammed after 6 months and wouldn't unlock. This was repaired in an hour under warranty.

Boot leaks and driver's door window seal leaks a lot when raining heavily. Window appears to need re-alignment.

Glovebox rattles furiously on even average roads.

Uneven tyre wear despite proper wheel alignment and balancing.

Like most MGF owners, I agree that the car is one of the most fun roadsters on the market and offers superb mid-engined, rear-wheel drive handling and good-quality ride, coupled with sweet, raspy engines and classy, refined looks inside and out.

Unfortunately, MG still needs to address some build-quality issues. I know of so many blown head gaskets that I'm always anticipating a head gasket failure myself - this doesn't inspire confidence. My unrelenting suspension problem also killed some of my enthusiasm for the car. Luckily, the 3-year warranty now standard and good dealer service I encountered (Chapman's Kildare) compensate somewhat.

The MGF represents a clear trade-off: it is one of the most individual roadsters with a well-known, proper sporting heritage behind it and bags of character. However, the car is a bit of a labour of love and can test its owner's patience due to ongoing reliability and build-quality issues.