Motodrome offer this 2005/55 MG ZT 260 V8, finished in Pearl Black metallic.
What defines a modern classic? Limited production is one (883 produced), decent performance another (a Mustang 4.6 litre V8 is always helpful) and styling (I’m on the fence here) to name but 3 things.
The MG 260 V8 was the product of a mad moment by the Rover Group (or Phoenix Holdings as they were known in the early 2000’s. Basically, take a reasonably competent but uninspiring car, the Rover 75, and imbue it with sufficient vim to frighten the horses.
Hence the idea to shoehorn the Ford modular 2L2E 4.6 litre V8 from the Mustang in, couple it with a Tremec 5 speed manual gearbox to handle the power and torque, and run it all through a Dana limited slip diff was proposed.
Problem was, the Rover 75 was front-wheel drive with a transverse engine. So the bodyshell had to be completely re-engineered to a) make the engine sit north-south, and b) drive the rear wheels. And obviously a completely redesigned, stiffened and lowered suspension and rear axle set up, with much bigger brakes than standard.
The result was only in production for 2 years. Whilst dynamically they’re not a patch on a BMW M5, they’re an absolute hoot to drive, especially as there’s no driver aids such as traction control etc. They’re resolutely ‘old-skool’, and the rumble of the V8 is quite addictive.
This one is a late-registered facelift example, that’s recently been professionally recommissioned following a 12-year lay up in dry storage.
Whilst the running gear is vastly under stressed and more than capable of being tuned for much more power etc (usually by fitting a supercharger) this one is, as far as we can tell, completely standard bar the fitment of a more modern stereo unit.
It has an odometer reading of 84000 miles, and the V5 shows 3 previous owners, the last since 2013.
Prior to going into storage, the history shows 11 stamps in the original service book up to 78106 miles in 2012, and a good selection of bills up to that point. The recommissioning service has also been stamped – 84327m on 04/03/25
The recommissioning in March 2025 (by an ex MG franchised dealer) included, but wasn’t limited to,
Full service
New radiator
New lower arms and bushes
New brake pipes
New rear springs
And we have the supporting invoice.
It comes with MOT to March 2026 and 6 months warranty on sale.
We have 2 keys for it and the original owners handbook/service book.
Just enormous fun, especially when you put your foot down…
On our own website, you’ll find our usual two videos: a walkaround appraisal, and driving impressions, which form part of the description.
Based Henley-on-Thames – viewing by prior appointment.
