MG ZT Estate, 2005
Chassis No.: SARRXXTGB4D000485 Engine No.: E19002808032173 Registration: BL54 MWM Sold £11,200 | Sold In 2001, three years after the launch of the Rover 75, and less than a year after the demerger of MG Rover from BMW, the MG ZT and MG ZT-T were launched. During the cars' development, the models were codenamed X10 and X11, for the saloon and estate versions, respectively. The basic shape and styling of the MG ZT remained the same as for the Rover 75 but with changes to the front bumper, now with an integrated grille, and detail alterations including colour coding of the chromed waistline, a new boot lid plinth, and different alloy wheels and tyres sizes. During the first few months of 2004, MG Rover facelifted the design of the ZT and ZT-T to a less retro look, at the same time as the Rover 75 received a facelift. This didn't feature much in the way of mechanical differences to the ZT, most changes were merely aesthetic. The main changes to the car included the replacement of the twin headlamps, with a new, clear single headlamp unit. Between 2003 and 2006 the top of the ZT range, and the rarest, was rear wheel drive and powered by the Ford 4601cc V8 engine giving 300bhp, 0-60mph in 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. This rare MG ZT is best described as a ‘wolf in sheep’s clothing’. A relatively unassuming vehicle from the outside, with the only visible feature being the large bore exhausts. However, start the engine and suddenly you become aware of the Ford Mustang 4.6 litre V8 under the bonnet. This is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox making this a true drivers car and one to really enjoy on the open road. Performance is put at 260bhp and 407NM of torque. The interior is trimmed in black leatherette and cloth seats with electric windows, electric mirrors and digital climate control with air conditioning. Showing just 63,444 miles on the odometer, the previous owner fitted a bespoke (and very expensive) stainless steel exhaust system with sports cats and central silencer box, coupled to an OE back-box, helping unleash a little more sound of the American dream. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a current MoT test certificate valid until October 2023, together with the original book pack and a collection of invoices. This stylish MG estate is both a capable load carrier and a truly exciting car to drive. These were built in relatively small numbers, it is thought less than 200 were manufactured, thus this could well prove to be a fine investment. https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=3870&au=74
