MG ZR wins class on rally debut!

Two MG ZRs have recorded an impressive rallying debut with a class win in the 2001 World Cup Rally, finishing 1st & 3rd in the 1.4-litre class and 4th & 6th overall in the gruelling event.

On Sunday September 30, two MG ZR 105s set off from Brooklands in Surrey to compete in the London-Sahara-London rally. The cars covered over 6,000 miles of gruelling and varied terrain in 20 days, competing in 28 test stages.

The first MG ZR was driven to the finish, first in class and fourth overall, in the capable hands of Andy Dawe and his co-driver Simon Sparey. Andy has previous experience of competition rallying with his father Doug Dawe in Longbridge produced products.

The second MG ZR, which finished third in class and sixth overall, was registered in Portugal and driven by Shirley Greenway, who was making her rally debut. Co-driver Andrew Johnson acquired the MG ZR 105 in Portugal, and took it to the UK for the fitment of safety equipment.

The suspension was refitted, with increased ride height, front strut brace and competition dampers. Brake and fuel lines were replaced with race-standard Aeroquip hoses with special routing inside the cabin for ensured performance and durability. Other special items included the fitment of Sparco competition seats, five-point harnesses, fire extinguishers, a rally trip computer, aluminium fuel tank and sump guards. The car was finished in the distinctive XPOWER grey and bright green livery.