It's getting a bit predictable now. MG has unveiled another Extreme model -
the MG ZT XPower 500 - one of a number of Extreme MG cars that have been
produced to give the marque's image a kick up the rear. They'll be reviving the
MG Metro next complete with 500bhp V8 (having said that, the old 6R4 was a bit
of a giggle...)
MG Extreme vehicles are concept cars, not intended for series production, but
developed from prototypes to illustrate the extremities of the chassis and
powertrain engineering that are possible.
With
108bhp per litre, delivered by a 4.6-litre quad-cam V8, Vortec supercharged and
aftercooled, the ZT XPower 500 produces a power-to-weight ratio of 312bhp per
tonne. Mated to a T56 six-speed manual gearbox, the MG produces a useful
acceleration to 100mph in 8.4 seconds. 60mph is reached in 4.5 seconds.
The V8 installation is the first in the MG ZT and preludes the launch in the
spring of road going 250bhp versions, before an 'ultimate' version with 370bhp
is introduced, itself heavily influenced by the ZT XPower 500. Front rear weight
balance is 56F:44R.
Exterior styling provides a purposeful stance while housing the huge 18"
alloy road wheels and 245/40 front and 275/35 rear ZR18 tyres. A new wider front
bumper has been profiled with harder-edged forms, integrating the wider wheel
arches, side skirts and functional aerodynamic appendages.
Styled under the leadership of Peter Stevens, MG Rover's Product Design
Director, a high mounted wing-type rear spoiler dominates the rear end, and
provides essential aerodynamic control, tuned for zero lift, over a variety
of road speeds and yaw angles.
Front
strut suspension uses a similar layout to the ZT190 and features a tubular
subframe. Bilstein dampers, rated springs, anti-roll bars and large alloy 4-pot
AP Racing brakes harnessing 330mm ventilated discs. The rear suspension evolves
the ZT's Z-axle, with a tubular carrier for the Hydratrak torque control
differential, which incorporates three transverse and one substantial
longitudinal suspension link arms. Both front and rear suspension is tuned to
provide complete and precise feel to the driver of road and vehicle behaviour.
Rob Oldaker, Product Development Director, commented: "The lid that
restrained development of MG products in recent years, has been blown off and
the results are truly explosive. MG's new approach - to be sensational and
outrageous - is being seen in blistering style. Stunning performances in the Le
Mans 24 Hour race and the amazing pace of new model introductions has attracted
phenomenal interest.
"The MG ZT XPower 500 is 'just another' example of our engineering
capability and enthusiasm for this fast accelerating MG brand. The launch in the
next few days of the MG ZR, MG ZS and MG ZT, will give driving enthusiasts the
opportunity to enjoy the MG brand strengths at first hand."
