Yesterday, I explained how Austin’s 1969 Zanda concept was designed to take a mid-mounted version of the Maxi’s engine and gearbox. In 1995, the mid-engined MGF followed the same principle: mechanically it was based on a 180 degree flip of the Metro’s front subframe, engine and gearbox. Another link to the Maxi/Metro - the MGF had Hydragas suspension, although this was replaced by steel springs when the F became the TF. Pic taken at the British Motor Museum
@JorvikAngler@davidwilkins
Indeed, a good looking car and fun to drive. I almost bought one but was put off by the reputation they had here in Germany for being unreliable. One motoring magazine wrote "we recommend this car only if you have a hydraulic hoist in your garage"...
@andrewprice@davidwilkins There were a few good examples snuck out of the factory. They still had to have the thermostat mod done though. I know somebody who's still got his. He likes it so much he had the engine rebuilt some years back.
@JorvikAngler@davidwilkins
Very interesting - that suggests that the reputation for unreliability was due to quality control problems which were known already in the factory. A shame, as I think that car had great potential which was not realised. What was the thermostat mod - a problem of engine overheating?
@andrewprice@davidwilkins It was a combination of QA, design faults, and lack of testing. Enlarging the K-series engine didn't do it any favours.
The thermostat was in the wrong place and needed to be moved to stop the overheating.
@JorvikAngler@andrewprice@davidwilkins Even when fitted with PRRT, MLS head gasket, uprated oil rail ladder & head bolts, the waterpump flowrate isn't sufficient when you're stuck in traffic jams on engine idle. Adding an electric waterpump to ensure higher flowrate is really a worthy mod.
Add comment