A Grand Monday: MGF

With the rain lashing down outside, few people will be thinking about buying a classic soft top. So we think that could make this well looked after year 2000 MGF Wedgewood a bit of a bargain at just £1275.

They didn’t build many of these (just 500 we think), but MGF special editions aren’t exactly scarce. This one comes in a unique Wedgewood Blue colour and, compared to the standard model, boasts leather seats, chrome ash tray/door handles/grille CD player, 16-inch Multispoke wheels and – here in SE guise – a rear deck spoiler.

With 76,000 miles on the clock, the car should have been well looked after and – reassuringly – the owner has every MoT from new to verify the mileage… including one that lasts until August 2015.

Known to the MG Owners' Club, the car comes with a decent history file and looks like it’s never wanted for anything. This year, it was treated to a new back window. The cambelt and water pump were changed at 65,000 miles. The headgasket was upgraded in 2010, with receipts for the work done.

According to the seller, ‘The car runs and drives 100% with no faults at all. There are no issues with the engine, clutch or gearbox whatsoever. And all the electrics work: windows, mirrors, remote central locking.’

Recent work includes new front brake calipers, front brake pads and discs, near rear brake pads, plus new spark plugs and HT leads. The Hydragas suspension was serviced last year with the fluid replaced and the ride height raised to correct level. At the same time, a four-wheel alignment was done and the tracking set.

Plus the car still has both its keys and central-locking remotes. The all-important roof is (overall) in good condition and every year has been treated with a water repellent. That said, there are two small tears in the hood where the frame catches when opening. These have been repaired and don’t leak.

Other bad bits? Well, there are a few rust spots and the driver’s seat bolster has gone out of shapes, but for £1250 we still think it’s worth a look. And, with winter coming, you’ll have plenty of time to get it ready for summer 2015.