Buying a TF

[profstoff]

A friend of mine is thinking of buying an MG TF. Is there any advice anyone can give, ie what to look for, what engine option, good and bad points, etc. As usual, the thoughts of the PH massive are gratefully valued.

[Mark Leonard]

profstoff said:

A friend of mine is thinking of buying an MG TF. Is there any advice anyone can give, ie what to look for, what engine option, good and bad points, etc. As usual, the thoughts of the PH massive are gratefully valued.

TF came in 3 basic models.... the 115 with a 1.6L engine, these are the cheapest but lowest spec model.

The 135 with a 1.8L MPI engine, most popular model but spec varies.

The 160 with 1.8 VVC engine, most powerfull of the range (0-60 in 6.9 sec's) and best equiped, but again spec varies dependant on the 'options pack' chosen buy the original buyer.

If buying a TF from 02/52/03 then check for HGF (Head Gasket Failure) these years are VERY prone sub 30K miles, but once repaired seem to suffer no more problems.
Also check for dodgy window regulators and door lock solenoids.

53 plate onwards had improved headgasket, 04 plate onwards also had extra additions to help prevent HGF (PRT) and low coolant warning indicator, 05 models had improved suspension and glass rear screen.

HTH.