MG ZT 190

The story

When BMW left, the new MG Rover company had little money and less time. In about a year its engineers stiffened and lowered the Rover 75 and turned it into a car that handled superbly. It was one of the surprises of the decade.

Inside

The 75's cabin with the wood replaced by dark metal-effect trim, sports seats and grey dials.

In period colours

Tap a colour to respray the drawing.

Meanwhile, in 2001

A new style of number plate arrived in September, with two digits to show a car's age.

Best-selling single of 2001: It Wasn't Me by Shaggy featuring Rikrok

Before you buy a 2000s car

• Check the service history, especially for timing belts, clutches and cambelts where fitted.
• Electronics, air conditioning and suspension repairs can be expensive.
• Many parts are still made, but some low-volume models rely on specialists.

General notes, not specific to this model. Check the model's own history before buying.

Rivals of its day

Picked automatically: cars on sale at the same time with similar size, speed and price.

See the real thing

These open in a new tab: the car on Wikimedia Commons, the interior and the badge as Google image searches.