Paul Lewis – 2004 MG XPower SV

The SV was launched at the 2002 Birmingham Motor Show, and boasted eye-catching looks and plenty of power. Not many were built, though, which means the opportunity to admire this superb car is something for enthusiasts to relish.

Purchased by Paul in 2015 as a treat for his 50th birthday he explains that this was the very last homologation model built in 2004. “It was with XK Engineering when MG Rover went bust in 2005, and they had it for ten years. There was still only 500 miles on the clock when I got it.”

The proud owner noticed that it was being offered at auction, and when it didn’t sell it seemed like the perfect time to get his hands on the powerful sports car. Although the build of the SV had been completed there were still a few gremlins to sort out, most of which involved the electrics.

Issues with the wiring prevented the car from starting properly, but a specialist soon solved the problem and it was treated to a comprehensive service at the same time. The MG hasn’t needed much work since then, although Paul says that battery problems are common and replacement is an involved process.

The only other job has been fitting the rear spoiler - a £2000 option at the time - that came with the car, and it has since been enjoyed to the full.  A session on track at the 2017 Spa Classic was certainly fun, and a chance to fully experience this car’s huge performance, while trips with a local car club have been just as entertaining.

There are no plans to part with the car, the owner adding that it gets a lot of attention when out on the road. We can certainly understand why…