MG Maestro. 1983–91 (prod. 47,914 plus 505 Turbo). 5-door saloon. F/F, 1598, 1994 cm³ (I4 OHC). Out-of-step styling of regular Maestro coupled with reasonable 103 bhp performance, though carburettor troubles emerged on early models; R-series engine replaced by S-series in 1984, before giving way to two-litre O-series EFi model in October that year. New facia from Montego in 1986. EFi renamed 2·0i in 1988. Very late to get a turbocharged engine, unlike Metro and Montego—which gave some insight into its lack of popularity inside Austin Rover, though the cars sold well enough. Turbo shown in 1988, with production, finished at Tickford, commencing 1989—fastest-accelerating MG at the time. Not directly replaced till MG ZS emerged in 2001.

Manufacturing location: Cowley, Oxfordshire, England

Marque: MG | Successor: MG ZS Mk I

Off-site link

• MG Cars Enthusiasts’ Club Web Site: ‘FWD Cars’