MG ZR 1.8 VVC Core 5p · 160 CV (2002-2004)

2002
Gasolina
FWD
Manual 5v
MG ZR - Vista 1
MG ZR - Vista 2
MG ZR - Vista 3
MG ZR - Vista 4

Especificaciones y análisis del MG ZR

Power

160HP

Torque

174Nm

Consumption

7.5l/100

Emissions

-g/km

0-100 km/h

7.8s

Top Speed

210km/h

Weight

1145kg

Price

19,350

Technical summary

Fuel

Gasolina

Transmission

Manual 5v

Traction

FWD

Seats

5 / 5 doors

Trunk

304 L

Tank

50 L

Power

118 kW

Status

Current

Technical specifications

Engine

Maximum power160 CV / 118 kW
Maximum torque174 Nm
Fuel typeGasolina
TransmissionManual 5v

Capacities

Tank50 L
Trunk304 L

Detailed analysis of the MG ZR 1.8 VVC Core 5p · 160 CV (2002-2004)

General description

The MG ZR 1.8 VVC Core 5p, launched in 2002, is a compact car that sought to inject a dose of sportiness and excitement into the segment. Priced at 19,350 euros at the time, it positioned itself as an attractive option for those looking for a car with character and a distinctive touch, far from more conservative proposals. Its 160 HP engine promised strong sensations and remarkable performance for its size.

Driving experience

Driving the MG ZR 1.8 VVC Core 5p is a vibrant experience. Its 1.8-liter, 160 HP engine, with VVC variable valve timing, delivers power energetically, especially at high revolutions, inviting you to push every gear of its 5-speed manual gearbox. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h speak for themselves. The suspension, McPherson type at the front and torsion beam with trailing arm at the rear, along with anti-roll bars on both axles, give it agile and direct handling, although it can be somewhat firm on uneven roads. Ventilated front disc brakes and rear disc brakes ensure effective stopping. It's a car that makes you feel the road, with precise steering that inspires confidence and an engine sound that accompanies the sporty experience.

Design and aesthetics

The design of the MG ZR 1.8 VVC Core 5p is unmistakably sporty and youthful. Its sharp lines, prominent bumpers, and 17-inch wheels with 205/45 R17 tires give it a robust and dynamic presence. Despite being a 5-door car, its aesthetics manage to convey the image of a sporty coupe. Its compact dimensions, with a length of 4011 mm, a width of 1690 mm, and a height of 1400 mm, make it manageable in the city, while its 2500 mm wheelbase contributes to good stability. The 304-liter trunk is sufficient for daily use, although it doesn't stand out for its spaciousness. Inside, the atmosphere is functional and sporty, with seats that offer good grip and clear instrumentation, although the materials may not be the most luxurious, they fulfill their purpose.

Technology and features

At the technological heart of the MG ZR 1.8 VVC Core 5p is its 1.8-liter, 160 HP gasoline engine, with 4 cylinders and 16 valves, which incorporates indirect injection and variable intake, an advanced feature for its time that optimizes power delivery. The aluminum cylinder head and block contribute to the engine's low weight. The 5-speed manual transmission is robust and allows for total control over the power. In terms of safety, it has disc brakes on all four wheels, with ventilated front brakes. The rack-and-pinion steering offers a direct response. In terms of efficiency, it has an approved NEDC combined consumption of 7.5 l/100km, with 10.4 l/100km in urban cycle and 5.8 l/100km in extra-urban, which for an engine of these characteristics and power is reasonable. Its DGT label is B.

Competition

In its segment and era, the MG ZR 1.8 VVC Core 5p faced sporty compacts such as the Renault Clio Sport, the Peugeot 206 GTi, or the Ford Fiesta ST. These rivals offered similar performance and an equally sporty approach, although each with its own personality. The MG ZR stood out for its distinctive British aesthetics and a very direct driving character, which differentiated it from more mainstream competition. Its power-to-price ratio was also a factor to consider against more established options in the market.

Conclusion

The MG ZR 1.8 VVC Core 5p is a car that, despite its age, still evokes a passion for driving. It is a sporty compact with an energetic engine, an agile chassis, and a design that does not go unnoticed. While not the most refined or the most spacious, its charm lies in the pure and direct driving experience it offers. It is a car for those who value sensations behind the wheel and are looking for a vehicle with personality. Its combined consumption of 7.5 l/100km is acceptable for its performance, and its environmental label B makes it suitable for driving in many areas. In short, an interesting option for 'hot hatch' lovers from the early 2000s.