1995 MGF Cheetah - Supercharged

Highlights

• Incredibly rare supercharged “Cheetah” model
• 200bhp
• Muscular bodykit
• Uprated suspension and brakes
• Low mileage
• One former keeper
• Advisory-free MOT until May 2026

Overview

When it comes to quintessential two-seater roadsters many would argue that the MX-5 is king. Or at least heir to the throne. And rightly so. It changed the game and set a new benchmark for chuckable sports cars, proving that they could be not only fun but reliable and indeed affordable as well.

As we all know, Mazda took inspiration from the MGB when it came to designing the MX-5, but as a rather beautiful example of a self-fulfilling prophecy, the roadster boom of the early '90s that it unwittingly kicked off in turn set a fire under the bums of the execs at the Rover Group. This led to them creating an all-new MG sports car as a result, and the MGF came kicking and screaming into existence in '92.

It was good looking, handled brilliantly and had enough power to make it a truly exciting proposition when driven enthusiastically thanks to its K-Series engine, especially the 1.8 with variable valve control. We'll address the head gasket shaped elephant in the room right now by saying that the K-Series is actually a decent and capable powerplant, as long as it's maintained correctly. So there.

The MGF is a little different to the MX-5 though. Rear-wheel drive, yes, but the engine is mid-mounted, sitting as it does right behind the driver's head. The result is an incredibly well-balanced sports car with plenty of grip and confidence inspiring handling, which is exactly what you want.

At times unfairly derided for a perceived lack of power (yes you have to push it to get the best from the engine) the same cannot be said for this particular MGF, seeing as it has a supercharger strapped to it. Rejoice.

Built by SP Performance the “Cheetah”, as it's known, is the ultimate iteration of the MGF. With over 200bhp on tap thanks to that bespoke Turbo Technics blower the car is certainly quick but remains usable without any pesky lag to contend with, allowing for a smoother delivery of power. Brakes were suitably fettled to match the car's performance credentials and stiffer suspension keeps everything copacetic in the corners.

The body has been beefed up with a few muscular accoutrements such as side skirts, bumpers and an adjustable front splitter for improved downforce and therefore grip, and the whole thing is finished off by a rather lovely set of Superlite 17" alloy wheels.

Not only is it a thoroughly engaging British sports car but it's rare, too. Very rare. You could be excused for being unaware of the Cheetah before today because so few of them were ever built. Yep, most would need a degree in avian dentistry to even know they existed in the first place, so if exclusivity is your thing then this is most definitely the car for you.

History and documentation

• HPI clear
• In current ownership since 2016
• Imported from Guernsey in 2018 and fully documented
• Some service record invoices and receipts
• Original book pack
• Confirmed by Turbo Technics as a Cheetah model
• Turbo Technics emblem in the rear trunk with a build number of 0008 and a date of 05/04
• 39,840 miles
• Advisory-free MOT until 07/05/2026
• First registered 25/09/1995
• V5C present and correct
• One former keeper

Interior

• Good condition throughout
• Red cloth seats appear free from wear but do carry a few small blemishes
• All chrome trim pieces in great shape
• Everything works as it should
• Carpets are excellent
• Unmarked dashboard
• Some wear to the centre arm rest
• Sony stereo head unit
• The headlining of the hard top seems to have dropped slightly and needs securing back into position

Exterior

• Bright red paintwork presents well
• Genuine Cheetah bodykit
• Adjustable front splitter
• Some scratches to the body kit along with some slight damage to the front wings
• 17” Superlite alloy wheels in great condition
• Continental Contisport Contact tyres all round
• Soft top is in great condition
• Hard and soft top (both black) in great condition and fit well
• Special bag for the hard top
• All shut lines appear to be straight and true
• Clean underneath
• No obvious signs of rust

Mechanical

• 200bhp supercharged 1.8-litre engine
• Rotrex supercharger developed specifically by Turbo Technics
• Five-speed manual gearbox
• SP Performance exhaust system
• Competition disc brakes all round
• Bosch ABS system
• Hydrogas special race suspension
• 0-60 in 5.5secs
• Max speed 150mph (limited)
• Battery replaced December 2024
• No mechanical issues to report

Summary

There are no official sales figures for the Cheetah but it's generally accepted that production didn't even make it into double figures, resulting in a hyper-exclusive slice of British automotive history. Whether you're after an exciting daily driver, weekend toy or even a track day hero, the Cheetah is versatile enough to cover all bases.

Hugely engaging and bags of fun to drive, the MGF was one of Britain’s most popular and affordable roadsters for a reason. Add a supercharger to the mix and you have a rather tasty recipe on your hands. For those seeking something a little more exclusive than an MX-5, this would fit the bill perfectly.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Clitheroe, Lancashire.