MGF Steptronic

ENGINE 1796cc/4-cyl/DOHC POWER 120bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 122lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 120mph 0-60MPH 9.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 30-42mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, six-speed automatic MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 48,763 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

A sports car with an automatic gearbox may not be for everyone, but this Steptronic MGF is a real hoot to drive after a couple of minutes’ acclimatisation. The system in this car is obviously set up to perfection, with each of the six forward gears slipping in virtually unnoticed if you slot the gear selector into Drive and do nothing else. Yank the gear lever to the left, however, and you are in sports mode and ready for a blast. The paddles behind either side of the steering wheel can also be used to shift gears, making the most of the available power. This car runs superbly, though the Hydragas suspension feels rather soft. Again, this is how they are supposed to be – it’s not a sign of wear. The brakes are more than up to the task.

BODYWORK CHECK

There’s not so much as a stone chip to be found marring this car’s immaculate Old English White coachwork. The paint gleams and really suits the car, particularly with the new brown hood. The alloy wheels are as new and the tyres look almost new, too. The wheelarches and various mouldings are unblemished, as is the glass.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The interior is to as high a standard as the rest of the car. The tan and cream leather seats look great and are comfortable. The matching door inserts are equally good, and there’s a walnut effect finish on the doors and centre console. The dashboard is as-new, as indeed are all the dials and instruments, which work perfectly. This MG has more interior comforts than most, including air conditioning and a good quality Pioneer CD/ stereo. The two-tone steering wheel is in pristine condition and the carpets show not a single blemish.

UNDER THE BONNET

The well-hidden engine compartment shows no sign of leaks or contamination and, like all MGFs sold by Trophy Cars, this one has had a new cylinder head gasket fitted. Sure enough, the water temperature gauge needle doesn’t shift from the middle of the dial, even when left idling after a long run. The Hydragas suspension doesn’t sag or leak – it really is full marks all-round, mechanically.

THE CCW VIEW

The idea of an automatic two-seater sports car may be the automotive equivalent of a stuffed racehorse to some enthusiasts, but it really is fun going through all those six gears by twiddling those paddles, while shifting in and out of sports mode in this car. It is in pristine order and has obviously been loved. It comes with an extensive service history and a warranty from the vendor. A great choice for someone who prefers – or needs – an automatic, or a sports car collector who wants to add something a little different to their fleet.