Unlike the super-stealthy MG, it’s easy to spot a Rover V8, which has a controversial Audi-esque grille jutting out up front. Underneath, however, a real transformation has taken place. As with the ZT 260, the Rover’s transmission tunnel has been widened, there’s a new underfloor and rear subframe and the suspension has been totally revised, incorporating new uprights and a larger anti-roll bar at the front (unlike the ZT the Rover does without one at the rear) and a new multi-link system at the rear. The Rover runs
softer springs than the MG and sits higher from the ground, but both have new steering racks, revised geometry and a Hydratrak limited-slip rear differential marshalling all that torque at the rear axle.
There are subtle changes to the V8 engine, too. Longbridge has fettled the Mustang-sourced motor for its Rover application, changing the intake and exhaust systems and reprogramming the ECU with the aim of noise reduction. The result is 256bhp at 5000rpm (hardly stressing the 4.6-litre engine at 56bhp per litre) and 302lb ft at 4000rpm, with plenty developed well below that. Where the MG gets a five-speed manual ’box, the Rover comes with an auto as standard – a four-speed US-sourced one