Estate Car thoughts
Discussion
Hi Everyone.
I have just bought an MG F for my boys to do track days with and am now thinking of getting an Estate car to tow it with.
Although we love our Italian cars (which we are keeping) the preferences are;
Jaguar X Type Estate
Rover 75 Tourer
MG ZT - T
Has anyone got any thoughts on which of these would be best as I would also need it for general commuting and a bit of luxury on long journeys. (We regularly travel to Norwich, from Somerset).
Personally I would really like the Jag as I have never had one, the Rover seems good too (slightly higher towing capacity) and I thought this might be slightly more economical(!) and the MG would look good towing an MG F Track car.
Which engine should I look for - BMW Diesel or a Petrol V6?
Oh, and I would probably prefer Auto as a change from pedal pumping on the other three cars.
Thanks in advance for any advice/recommendations.
Christine.
I have just bought an MG F for my boys to do track days with and am now thinking of getting an Estate car to tow it with.
Although we love our Italian cars (which we are keeping) the preferences are;
Jaguar X Type Estate
Rover 75 Tourer
MG ZT - T
Has anyone got any thoughts on which of these would be best as I would also need it for general commuting and a bit of luxury on long journeys. (We regularly travel to Norwich, from Somerset).
Personally I would really like the Jag as I have never had one, the Rover seems good too (slightly higher towing capacity) and I thought this might be slightly more economical(!) and the MG would look good towing an MG F Track car.
Which engine should I look for - BMW Diesel or a Petrol V6?
Oh, and I would probably prefer Auto as a change from pedal pumping on the other three cars.
Thanks in advance for any advice/recommendations.
Christine.
I owned a ZT around 10 years ago (I think). Mine wasn't an estate though I don't think that matters too much. It was reasonably nice inside (though this was 10 years ago) although my one comment on it would be the cabin space was really quite small, especially in the back for what was a reasonably decent sized car, if you decide to go for one I'd suggest going for the diesel which was actually a BMW 320d engine. The V6 engine was generally quite reliable but I seem to recall they could suffer from coolant leaks in the "v" between the two engine banks, I think that's where the thermostat is located.
I Iw as in the same position I'd probably just but a Mondeo to be honest.
I Iw as in the same position I'd probably just but a Mondeo to be honest.
My personal experience of towing lots of things lots of miles is that the bigger and heavier the tow car, the better. It also helps if it's RWD, and my preference would be for an auto (though I prefer manual for everything else).
Would you consider having a specific tow car? If so, one of the best I've towed with is a Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7 diesel. Not terrible on fuel (circa 28 mpg), and effortless at this type of duty, especially with auto and cruise.
I've also towed with an E39 525, which was also OK. But FWD stuff has generally been a bit poor, and I personally would not be keen.
Of the cars you've mentioned, I'd prob go for the Jag, ideally in 2.2 guise if you can. Extra torque makes things easier, but I would be hesitant in expecting it to be a 'good' tow car.I personally like the Jag (though much hate on here for them), and I like the 2.2 engine.
Would you consider having a specific tow car? If so, one of the best I've towed with is a Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7 diesel. Not terrible on fuel (circa 28 mpg), and effortless at this type of duty, especially with auto and cruise.
I've also towed with an E39 525, which was also OK. But FWD stuff has generally been a bit poor, and I personally would not be keen.
Of the cars you've mentioned, I'd prob go for the Jag, ideally in 2.2 guise if you can. Extra torque makes things easier, but I would be hesitant in expecting it to be a 'good' tow car.I personally like the Jag (though much hate on here for them), and I like the 2.2 engine.
For towing I’d suggest the diesel Auto, maybe with the map that can take you to a safe 150bhp or so.
The V’6’s ( I’ve had 3!) aren’t particularly torquey,even worse with the Auto, so I’m not sure it’s a good towing fit.
As for comfort the 75 wins every time, but if you go for the ZT-T it’s an easy swap for some comfy 75 seats and make sure it hasn’t got the “sport suspension option ).
My 3 here, and story of the latest below if it helps .
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
The V’6’s ( I’ve had 3!) aren’t particularly torquey,even worse with the Auto, so I’m not sure it’s a good towing fit.
As for comfort the 75 wins every time, but if you go for the ZT-T it’s an easy swap for some comfy 75 seats and make sure it hasn’t got the “sport suspension option ).
My 3 here, and story of the latest below if it helps .
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
wsn03 said:
Passat 2.0 estate. Best car I've ever owned. Ask any Passat owner and they will probably tell you the same thing, they are just very good at nearly everything with lots of space inside, and so incredibly reliable
Agreed, we trailered our Caterham with a ‘02 Passat estate with the PD130 engine. It still pulled like good ‘un and there was masses of space for the paraphernalia I used to like to take to track days. The economy even when towing was unreal, into the mid/high 30s mpg I seem to recall.
Wow chaps, thanks for all the replies so far! Wasn't expecting such a good response :-)
I forgot to mention that I really want a British car. I know the Passat is very good as I expect the Skoda is too but you know how it is - when you get something in your head -that would give us two Italians and two Brits.
Definitely take on board comments re MG Z and I think that's helped me narrow it down to the Jag or the Rover.
So, with that in mind I just have to decide Petrol or Diesel, pretty sure I'd want Auto and the big question is Blue or Green? :-)
I forgot to mention that I really want a British car. I know the Passat is very good as I expect the Skoda is too but you know how it is - when you get something in your head -that would give us two Italians and two Brits.
Definitely take on board comments re MG Z and I think that's helped me narrow it down to the Jag or the Rover.
So, with that in mind I just have to decide Petrol or Diesel, pretty sure I'd want Auto and the big question is Blue or Green? :-)
MondialGirl said:
Wow chaps, thanks for all the replies so far! Wasn't expecting such a good response :-)
I forgot to mention that I really want a British car. I know the Passat is very good as I expect the Skoda is too but you know how it is - when you get something in your head -that would give us two Italians and two Brits.
Definitely take on board comments re MG Z and I think that's helped me narrow it down to the Jag or the Rover.
So, with that in mind I just have to decide Petrol or Diesel, pretty sure I'd want Auto and the big question is Blue or Green? :-)
Low spec, probably the wrong green and no cruise, but likely a decent car..I forgot to mention that I really want a British car. I know the Passat is very good as I expect the Skoda is too but you know how it is - when you get something in your head -that would give us two Italians and two Brits.
Definitely take on board comments re MG Z and I think that's helped me narrow it down to the Jag or the Rover.
So, with that in mind I just have to decide Petrol or Diesel, pretty sure I'd want Auto and the big question is Blue or Green? :-)
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-search?year-to=20...
I use a 2003 Rover 75 Tourer as a daily car, so I can offer my thoughts.
It’s an auto diesel, on a long motorway run driven carefully, I’ve had just over 60mpg from it. Height of summer, brimmed tank average 49/50mpg, in winter it drops to around 44mpg. Real calculated figures, not calculated from the trip computer which weirdly under reads. VED is £305 per year, about £80 or so less if you have the manual gearbox. However, this car really suits the auto, so I’d recommend that. Insurance group 19 as I recall, which is quite low for the class of car.
Mine is a Club SE model, comes with most of the toys you actually need - electric mirrors, electric windows, dual zone climate control, rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, auto dimming RVM. I’ve retro fitted a few bits, such as projector headlamps and cruise control - all easy to do. If you want full leather with electric seats you need the Connoisseur model.
The Mk1 was better built than the Mk2, so I’d recommend an earlier car. The diesel unit is bullet proof, I know of several cars over 300k miles on original engines. There’s also an active and resourceful enthusiast following (75/ZT club) who have some specialists who know how to keep the cars going. Rot isn’t a big problem on the 75/ZT, unless it’s spent it’s life parked by the coast or in Scotland.
I put 20-25k miles a year on mine, it’s been utterly reliable and a wonderfully comfortable and relaxed cruiser. I’m thinking of getting another, not because my current one is worn out, but because they’re such good cars. If I had to replace mine, although I’ve considered X-Types, V70, Saab estates and so on, I’d still have another 75 Tourer.
It’s an auto diesel, on a long motorway run driven carefully, I’ve had just over 60mpg from it. Height of summer, brimmed tank average 49/50mpg, in winter it drops to around 44mpg. Real calculated figures, not calculated from the trip computer which weirdly under reads. VED is £305 per year, about £80 or so less if you have the manual gearbox. However, this car really suits the auto, so I’d recommend that. Insurance group 19 as I recall, which is quite low for the class of car.
Mine is a Club SE model, comes with most of the toys you actually need - electric mirrors, electric windows, dual zone climate control, rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, auto dimming RVM. I’ve retro fitted a few bits, such as projector headlamps and cruise control - all easy to do. If you want full leather with electric seats you need the Connoisseur model.
The Mk1 was better built than the Mk2, so I’d recommend an earlier car. The diesel unit is bullet proof, I know of several cars over 300k miles on original engines. There’s also an active and resourceful enthusiast following (75/ZT club) who have some specialists who know how to keep the cars going. Rot isn’t a big problem on the 75/ZT, unless it’s spent it’s life parked by the coast or in Scotland.
I put 20-25k miles a year on mine, it’s been utterly reliable and a wonderfully comfortable and relaxed cruiser. I’m thinking of getting another, not because my current one is worn out, but because they’re such good cars. If I had to replace mine, although I’ve considered X-Types, V70, Saab estates and so on, I’d still have another 75 Tourer.
sjc said:
Low spec, probably the wrong green and no cruise, but likely a decent car..
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-search?year-to=20...
Thanks SJC but yeah wrong green :-)https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-search?year-to=20...
Been thinking, if I get green (like the sort of 'Heritage' nodding towards British Racing Green) we'll then have the all the colours of the British and Italian Flags!
Also you're right about spec too!
bearman68 said:
My personal experience of towing lots of things lots of miles is that the bigger and heavier the tow car, the better. It also helps if it's RWD, and my preference would be for an auto (though I prefer manual for everything else).
Would you consider having a specific tow car? If so, one of the best I've towed with is a Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7 diesel. Not terrible on fuel (circa 28 mpg), and effortless at this type of duty, especially with auto and cruise.
I've also towed with an E39 525, which was also OK. But FWD stuff has generally been a bit poor, and I personally would not be keen.
Of the cars you've mentioned, I'd prob go for the Jag, ideally in 2.2 guise if you can. Extra torque makes things easier, but I would be hesitant in expecting it to be a 'good' tow car.I personally like the Jag (though much hate on here for them), and I like the 2.2 engine.
That'll do, pig. I've had 2 of the estates. Both derv, 2.0 and 2.2. Loved them both. Of your choices without a doubt I'd take the Jag. Would you consider having a specific tow car? If so, one of the best I've towed with is a Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7 diesel. Not terrible on fuel (circa 28 mpg), and effortless at this type of duty, especially with auto and cruise.
I've also towed with an E39 525, which was also OK. But FWD stuff has generally been a bit poor, and I personally would not be keen.
Of the cars you've mentioned, I'd prob go for the Jag, ideally in 2.2 guise if you can. Extra torque makes things easier, but I would be hesitant in expecting it to be a 'good' tow car.I personally like the Jag (though much hate on here for them), and I like the 2.2 engine.
Muddle238 said:
I use a 2003 Rover 75 Tourer as a daily car, so I can offer my thoughts.
It’s an auto diesel, on a long motorway run driven carefully, I’ve had just over 60mpg from it. Height of summer, brimmed tank average 49/50mpg, in winter it drops to around 44mpg. Real calculated figures, not calculated from the trip computer which weirdly under reads. VED is £305 per year, about £80 or so less if you have the manual gearbox. However, this car really suits the auto, so I’d recommend that. Insurance group 19 as I recall, which is quite low for the class of car.
Mine is a Club SE model, comes with most of the toys you actually need - electric mirrors, electric windows, dual zone climate control, rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, auto dimming RVM. I’ve retro fitted a few bits, such as projector headlamps and cruise control - all easy to do. If you want full leather with electric seats you need the Connoisseur model.
The Mk1 was better built than the Mk2, so I’d recommend an earlier car. The diesel unit is bullet proof, I know of several cars over 300k miles on original engines. There’s also an active and resourceful enthusiast following (75/ZT club) who have some specialists who know how to keep the cars going. Rot isn’t a big problem on the 75/ZT, unless it’s spent it’s life parked by the coast or in Scotland.
I put 20-25k miles a year on mine, it’s been utterly reliable and a wonderfully comfortable and relaxed cruiser. I’m thinking of getting another, not because my current one is worn out, but because they’re such good cars. If I had to replace mine, although I’ve considered X-Types, V70, Saab estates and so on, I’d still have another 75 Tourer.
Fantastic Muddle! Brilliant review thanks. Why did you decide against X Type?It’s an auto diesel, on a long motorway run driven carefully, I’ve had just over 60mpg from it. Height of summer, brimmed tank average 49/50mpg, in winter it drops to around 44mpg. Real calculated figures, not calculated from the trip computer which weirdly under reads. VED is £305 per year, about £80 or so less if you have the manual gearbox. However, this car really suits the auto, so I’d recommend that. Insurance group 19 as I recall, which is quite low for the class of car.
Mine is a Club SE model, comes with most of the toys you actually need - electric mirrors, electric windows, dual zone climate control, rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, auto dimming RVM. I’ve retro fitted a few bits, such as projector headlamps and cruise control - all easy to do. If you want full leather with electric seats you need the Connoisseur model.
The Mk1 was better built than the Mk2, so I’d recommend an earlier car. The diesel unit is bullet proof, I know of several cars over 300k miles on original engines. There’s also an active and resourceful enthusiast following (75/ZT club) who have some specialists who know how to keep the cars going. Rot isn’t a big problem on the 75/ZT, unless it’s spent it’s life parked by the coast or in Scotland.
I put 20-25k miles a year on mine, it’s been utterly reliable and a wonderfully comfortable and relaxed cruiser. I’m thinking of getting another, not because my current one is worn out, but because they’re such good cars. If I had to replace mine, although I’ve considered X-Types, V70, Saab estates and so on, I’d still have another 75 Tourer.
MondialGirl, I have just spoken to Jules at JMA Cars in North Wales to ask what he has, as he is the absolute “go to” man for all things 75/ZT.He has 75 diesel Auto tourers two at opposite ends of the spectrum, a 200K miler that will be ready in a month ( which means he’ll be going through it with a fine tooth comb) and a virtually show car standard one that will be strong money.He’ll be worth talking to.
sjc said:
MondialGirl, I have just spoken to Jules at JMA Cars in North Wales to ask what he has, as he is the absolute “go to” man for all things 75/ZT.He has 75 diesel Auto tourers two at opposite ends of the spectrum, a 200K miler that will be ready in a month ( which means he’ll be going through it with a fine tooth comb) and a virtually show car standard one that will be strong money.He’ll be worth talking to.
Thanks again SJC, I'll take a look 
Jamescrs said:
I owned a ZT around 10 years ago (I think). Mine wasn't an estate though I don't think that matters too much. It was reasonably nice inside (though this was 10 years ago) although my one comment on it would be the cabin space was really quite small, especially in the back for what was a reasonably decent sized car, if you decide to go for one I'd suggest going for the diesel which was actually a BMW 320d engine. The V6 engine was generally quite reliable but I seem to recall they could suffer from coolant leaks in the "v" between the two engine banks, I think that's where the thermostat is located.
I Iw as in the same position I'd probably just but a Mondeo to be honest.
I see where you're coming from, but it's a Ford I Iw as in the same position I'd probably just but a Mondeo to be honest.
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