Used car buying guide: MG F Car News

■ Verification of specifications: Read all documentation carefully before purchasing, as non-Trophy cars are almost identical. For the 1.6 liter, check the matte black, unpainted door handles and side air intakes. The VIN plates are located at the bottom of the windshield, next to the spare wheel and on the front right shock tower.

■ Corrosion: There are a few problem areas on the MGF for corrosion and rust, including the subframe, air intakes, door sills and front fenders, which are particularly sensitive. Go around the car with a fine comb, especially if it has high mileage and has been driven daily at all times.

Also worth knowing

There are a few MGF mechanical experts spread across the UK including MGF Center in Wolverhampton (01902 453 100) and Just Right Autos in Witney, Oxfordshire (01993 778060). If you can’t make it, Rough Luck Racing (07766 993717), an MG mobile specialist mechanic, can come to you.

How much to spend

£ 500 to £ 1,199: High mileage project cars with rust and body scratches. Some gems, like a 2001-reg 1.8i with a new exhaust and catalytic converter, but work and expense is required on most cars at this price point.

£ 1,200 to £ 1,999: A few decent examples including a manual 1.8i for two owners in good overall condition with full MOT and only 33,000 miles on the clock.

£ 2000 – £ 3499: Nice examples of later models from 2001 with regular maintenance, low mileage and history checks. Some owners have spent a lot to bring their cars up to standard.

£ 3,500 to £ 6,000: Low-mileage, show-quality Trophy editions that can cost up to £ 6,000. Most at this price point have had a new head gasket installed, but you should still look for signs of rust and check service histories.

One that we found

MGF 1.8i VVC MANUAL, 1997, 54,000 MILES, £ 2,500: This example 1.8i VVC was fitted with a new head gasket and water pump, as well as a new catalytic converter and new coolant hoses. Basic history details are also available, and the interior looks well-maintained, judging by the announcement. Just check the soft top for tears and inspect the bodywork for rust.

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