2003 MG ZR 160 review from UK and Ireland
"Worth the cost, just keep bit aside for the bad head gasket day"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Head gasket went three weeks after I bought it, and then when I got it back, I had to take it back because of the big hole in the head and radiator. I do think this is due to not been cared for.
Cam shaft pulley fell off at 49000. Luckily I stopped straight away to find belts all over the road. God bless the RAC; luckily it didn't do any damage except to my wallet, because it needed a new pulleys, all the belts, timing kit and water pump.
Now it's drinking water again. I think the head gasket is going, and I'm thinking if it was not for the finance, I would consider getting rid, even though I love it.
General comments?
I agree that it's not the greatest built car, and the ride is not great; you can feel every bump. But this has been my favorite car I have owned, and I have had a few.
It's the 160 model in black with tinted windows, and I have replaced the MG alloys with a nice set of Wolf-race Pro Sprint silver/blacks, which look great.
If it was not for the problems I have had, I would keep this little beauty for few years, but I now fear the head is gonna go again (second time in a year). I have looked after this car (although I have tested its power when needs be) and kept my eye on all the levels, but it must have had a tough time before I bought it.
The handling is brill; it goes where you point it. It's rapid compared to even my previous 1.8 Focus, 2.5 V6 Mondeo and Vectra SRi to name a few.
Just as a extra touch, I have installed a HID headlamp kit, which looks fantastic, and a DVD/Sound system, which turns heads.
I would recommend the ZR to anyone as long as they're aware of its head gasket issues.
Great little car, especially if you pick up a good one. If you don't mind the insurance, get a 160, they're worth it compared to my friends 120, which is OK, but ain't got nothing on the little daddy.
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Recommended reviews
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| Great looks, Even better handling and well worth a look |
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| The ZR is poorly made and designed, it has constant rattles and terrible reliability. Don't buy one |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2003 |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 VVCi Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 39000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 52000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Focus |
| Date of Entry | 16th November, 2008 |