1998 MG F from Australia and New Zealand - Comments

Snapped gear selector cable - knuckle had been damaged from a bottom-out and a hard change ripped the cable. Expensive repair.

Vandalised hood - twice. Knife wounds can't be repaired. The fabric needs to be replaced. At least $2000 a pop.

I bought this car over 2 years ago with a fairly high odo reading. I drove the car for 10 minutes before falling in love with it and deciding that $90 was a small price to pay for an experienced MG mechanic to give it a thorough examination.

From day 1 I've been impressed with the handling, fuel economy and comfort of the car. I drive the car hard and I'm rewarded with a smile on my face every time. And best of all the fuel economy never goes above 10 or 11 litres per 100kms.

Just be careful of the rear end in the wet - it goes around very easily, although I have a habit of cornering too quickly in all conditions. In the dry it is quite amazing. The only problem I've had is almost losing whole thing trying to take a sweeping 90 degree turn at 85kmh... but I recovered it - although somewhat ungracefully.

The only real problem I've had is the mongrels that decide the soft-top is an easy target. I've had it slashed twice - and this can be an expensive repair if you aren't insured. Or a bonus if you want a new glass rear window ;)

But you know the best part? 90% of the population have no idea what the car is and estimate it costs 2-3 times what I paid for it (ie: $60000). It looks that classy.

I myself too have an F, though she's a 99. As for the roof, I have found if you hunt around you can get the roof done at less than $2000. Fitted as well. Then again depending on whereabouts that can be a slight problem...