Well this was a little treat!
This lovely MG Metro Turbo popped by for a new distributor and ignition module.
Launched at the October 1982 Birmingham Motor Show the MG Metro Turbo went head to head in the marketplace with Ford’s XR2 (launched 1981). The Peugeot 205 GTI would arrive in 1984, and the rest, as they say, is history.
With a quoted bhp of 93, 0–60 mph in 9.9 seconds, and top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h) this car had few direct competitors at the time, although the growing demand for “hot hatches” meant that it soon had a host of competitors including the Ford Fiesta XR2, Peugeot 205 GTI and Renault 5 GT Turbo.
These cars were equipped with electronic ignition from the factory, using a Lucas 65D Distributor. This car uses a Viper coil, along with a Powerspark 65D Distributor and 8mm double Silicone HT Leads. (The same HT leads used by the Mini and Morris Minor.)
Looking for an MG Metro Turbo? Try Car and Classic or eBay… But don’t expect much change from £10,000!
The MG Metro Turbo was replaced in 1990 by the Rover Metro GTi, with the advanced K series engine delivering more power and delivering it through an end on 5 speed gearbox. Now though the Rover management had decided the MG badge was for genuine sports cars only and already plans and actions were afoot to provide such cars (MGF, are your ears burning?) Thus future performance Rover Metros were to be the GTa and GTi models.
MG Metro Turbo Technical Specifcation:
Engine:
Number of cylinders: 4
Capacity: 1275 cc
Bore & Stroke: 70.61 mm x 81.28mm
Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
Valve gear: Pushrod overhead valve
Carburation: Single SU HIF44
Turbocharger: Garrett Air Research T3
Max Boost Pressure: 7.5 psi
Max Power: 93 bhp (S 6130 rpm)
Max Torque: 85lb/ft (a 2650 rpm)
Transmission:
Type: 4 speed all synchromesh
Clutch: Single dry plate
Suspension:
Front: Independent bottom link braced by anti roll bar. Top link operating Hydragas spring. Telescopic dampers.
Rear: Independent trailing arms, anti roll bar, coil spring pre loaded on Hydragas unit.
Wheels: Vented cast alloy 13″ diameter, 5.5 J rims
Tyres: Steel braced radial low profile 165/60 VR13.
Brakes: Front – 4 piston calliper ventilated disc. Rear-7″ drum.
Performance:
0-60 mph: 9.9 secs
Max speed: 112 mph
Fuel consumption: 50.3 mpg @ 56 mph (urban)
Top speed: 110mph
0 to 60mph: 9.5 seconds
Average fuel consumption: in a range 30 to 40mpg
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