WITH THE introduction of its new MG ZT, MG now has the broadest range in its 80-year history.
The rear-wheel drive V8-powered MG ZT 260 V8 is available in ZT saloon and ZT-T estate car and is powered by a 260bhp 4.6-litre V8 engine with an awesome 410Nm of torque.
“The MG ZT 260 V8 demonstrates our commitment to deliver cars of true pedigree and character. This is a truly rewarding car to drive. Our choice of a big, torquey engine has been vindicated as this is a deceptively quick and efficient cross-country car. The more you drive it, the more you appreciate its unique muscle car character that flies in the face of our competitors’ trend towards buzzy high-revving engines,” Rob Oldaker, MG Rover Group’s Product Development Director, commented.
The ZT 260 is an evolution of the front-wheel drive ZT. The larger capacity engine and rear-wheel drive power-train have been incorporated within the robust body without major visual changes. Below the skin the platform is largely new with significant changes to many functional vehicle systems to accommodate the revised drive-line layout. Externally there is little clue to the extent of body structure changes necessary to accommodate the new rear-wheel drive power unit. Extensive changes have been made to the underfloor, as well as an enlarged transmission tunnel to accommodate the in-line gearbox.
The ZT 260 utilises Ford’s proven 4.6-litre V8 engine, widely used in North America to power the iconic Ford Mustang. Modifications have been made to the powertrain to assist in packaging the engine while MG’s engineers have also developed new intake, exhaust and emissions control systems to ensure the vehicle complies with stringent European noise legislation with no loss of power or torque. A new electronic engine calibration helps ensure the car exceeds current European emissions legislation.
The exhaust system, twinned for most of the length of the car, is distinguished by new quad-tailpipes. Outside the system produces a classic V8 burble, while inside the cabin remains quiet “until aroused by the throttle when it resounds to the sporting note of a true thoroughbred,” say MG.
Tremec’s TR3650 five-speed manual gearbox has been extensively modified to meet MG’s needs and features unique gearing to suit the demands of European driving. MG’s engineers have also developed an all-new gear selection system and bespoke hydraulic clutch actuation to ensure precise and positive gear changes.
The rear axle features Dana’s Hydratrak limited slip differential system, which utilises vane-pump principles to ensure continuous and seamless torque transmission to both rear wheels in the event of wheel speed differential.
The ZT 260’s steering and suspension systems have evolved radically to match the performance of the V8 power unit. The team focused their efforts on honing the car’s classic rear-drive handling to provide “seamless, fluid and adjustable attitude control under the widest range of conditions”.
The geometry of the MacPherson strut front suspension has been tuned to the requirements of the new chassis platform and a new multi-link rear suspension has been developed specifically for the ZT 260 V8.
A new H-split braking system with 325mm ventilated discs and sliding-pin callipers at the front and a new AP-Racing sourced brake system with 332mm ventilated discs and opposed piston alloy callipers at rear provide “excellent stopping power”.
The range is launched in both ZT saloon and ZT-T estate models and is available in two trim specifications. Black leather trim, highline satellite navigation that includes a Teletext equipped TV tuner and park distance sensors are just a few of the features that distinguish the top-of-the-lineSE.
Local agents Char. Pilakoutas say they don’t plan to stock the car in Cyprus, though it will be available on special order. Prices, however, have yet to be confirmed.
