One of a trio of ‘Z’ models, the MG ZR had its roots in the ‘R3’ variant of Rover 200 that was launched in 1995. The 200 was essentially a new Rover design, but one that contained considerable carryover from the previous Honda-derived cars. The front half was essentially that of the previous ‘R8’ 200/400, while the back half was from the R8 but modified to provide more boot space and to accept the cheaper torsion beam rear axle from the Maestro.
The 200 was facelifted into the Rover 25 in 1999, which spawned the MG ZR two years later. Like the other Z models, the ZR was given clever changes to make it sporty without changing the sheet metal. These included a revised bumper, grille and a tailgate spoiler, plus lower and stiffer springs, harder bushes, uprated dampers and sharper steering.
The result was a sharp-handling car with eager turn-in, providing ample feedback while sticking to the road like a GTI. A facelift in 2004 primarily consisted of replacing the four-light nose with two headlights, as well as extensive changes to the interior. The ZR was available with three or five doors, and in two trim levels: ZR and ZR+. The Plus got extras including electric front windows, sunroof and better seats, while the ZR160 also gained
