ZT Series II

Along with a new nose featuring a larger grille, redesigned bumpers and alloy wheel patterns, as well as new seats and revised graphics and trim, the ZT Series II’s biggest news was the implementation of the ZT 260 sedan.

Driving the rear wheels – unlike the rest of the ZT and Rover 75 range – was a US Ford Mustang-sourced 4.6-litre OHC V8 engine producing 191kW of power and 410Nm of torque.

A five-speed manual gearbox was the sole transmission choice in the ZT 260 (for 260 horsepower).

All other (front-wheel drive) ZTs (133kW/240Nm 180 and 140kW/245Nm 190) continued, but minus the Plus and Tourer wagon models.

In April ’05 MG Rover collapsed, but the ZT may yet be resurrected if the two Chinese consortiums that purchased the company’s remains succeed in restarting production in either England and/or China.