Ask an expert

I am thinking of buying a 1997 MGF VVC.

The asking price is $6,500 and the odometer is showing 87,000kms. It is in tidy condition apart from a cracked rear plastic window.

I have heard that NZ does not have Certified MGF service centres which would be a problem should anything go wrong with the car. It has already had an engine rebuild and I will be taking it for a pre purchase inspection.

Would you buy this car or what else can you tell me about this vehicle? I intend to use it around town and for 'fun' in the weekends.

It will be a second family car (mid life crisis buy).

Lyn

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 17 May 2010

To be honest I would avoid this car at all costs.

I'm not surprised to read the engine has been rebuilt and unfortunately there are no guarantees that this would be the last of your problems. The engine design (K series) is not good in terms of reliability (head gasket / overheating issues) so it is often a matter of on-going issues rather than fixing something long term.

If the car has an automatic transmission then more alarm bells ring as it will be a Constant Variable Transmission which also has a poor reliability record.

The suspension for this year model is a little unusual as well as it is based on the old BMC hydrolastic (fluid) concept. The later versions went back to a more conventional suspension.

The car also suffered from water leak issues (soft top) and the 1996 / 97 were probably when they were at their worst (before modifications were introduced).

It is the sort of car best owned by an enthusiast who has the technical ability to carry out any repairs in their own time and to keep costs down. There is still an active service and parts chain throughout NZ, but finding a suitably qualified and knowledgeable MG technician to carry out any required repairs on this model may be difficult.

Not for me Lyn.