Running costs and reliability

The MG TF generally held its value well, but have bottomed out in terms of values these days. Costs for insurance, parts and servicing were all reasonable by the standards of a modern classic sports car. Even the most powerful models could deliver surprisingly good fuel economy when driven sensibly, making them viable as weekend or even occasional daily drivers.

On the emissions front, the TF performed relatively well for a petrol-powered convertible. With an average of 182g/km CO2 across the range, it offered respectable figures, although it was worth noting that no diesel models were ever offered. Combined fuel economy sat around 36mpg – not stellar by modern standards, but acceptable for a car of its type.

The earlier MGF had suffered well-publicised reliability issues, particularly around head gaskets, and while the TF improved in some areas, it inherited many of the same vulnerabilities. The K-Series engine could be reliable with proper maintenance, but without it, major issues weren’t far behind. As a result, proximity to a reputable MG specialist or dealer was often recommended.

Owners who kept up with regular servicing, cooling system upgrades and preventative maintenance could expect a satisfying ownership experience. However, skipping essential repairs or ignoring early warning signs could result in significant bills, especially if the engine overheated or corrosion took hold in the chassis or subframes.