MG XPower Classic Cars for Sale

History of the MG XPower Series

MG XPower was established in 2001 by MG Rover Group as a high-performance sub-brand to rejuvenate MG’s motorsport credentials. The company focused on creating a road-going supercar—the MG XPower SV—under MG Sports & Racing Limited. The ground-breaking project brought together partners across Europe and the US, with chassis production by Vaccari and Bosi in Modena, carbon fibre components from SP Group and Belco Avia, and engine development by Roush Industries. Only 82 SVs were assembled before MG Rover’s insolvency in April 2005, cementing the XPower’s aura as a rare and fascinating British supercar experiment.

Model History of the MG XPower

With no direct predecessor, the MG XPower SV marked a fresh, radical departure from the company’s previous offerings. It was developed as a true front-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car, aimed at competing with established supercars of the era. The SV-R variant, introduced with more power and an aggressive aerodynamic package, pushed the boundaries further. Production challenges and MG Rover’s financial troubles meant that the series was short-lived, with only 42 units of the even more exclusive SV-R. No direct successor was launched, making the XPower line a stand-alone milestone in MG’s story.

Standout Features and Rarity of the MG XPower Series

The MG XPower SV family is defined by its sophisticated carbon fibre construction—composed of over 3,000 hand-laid parts for a feather-light 65 kg raw body. Designed by Peter Stevens, known for the McLaren F1, the SV stands out with custom details: Fiat Punto projector headlights, Fiat Coupé tail lights, a dramatic aerodynamics package, and bespoke interiors finished in the finest leather, Alcantara, and even colour-matched Italian wool carpets. Factory options included heated and ventilated Recaro bucket seats and advanced audio and navigation technology for its time. The SV-R’s 5.0-litre Roush/Ford V8 delivers 385 hp and a deep, unmistakable soundtrack. Only 82 SVs and 42 SV-Rs were built—making up 100% of the MG XPower listings, according to available data.

Technical Data of MG XPower

Special Variants and Collectors’ Models

The SV-R is the most powerful and exclusive XPower variant, limited to only 42 units. With uprated engine output and a distinctive aerodynamic kit—featuring a substantial rear wing and specific bodywork enhancements—the SV-R was designed to deliver even sharper performance. Handfuls of early or specially finished cars, particularly those with custom leather/Alcantara interiors or rare colour options such as Kinetic paint, are considered particularly interesting by enthusiasts.

Weak Spots and Known Issues

Due to the extremely limited production run, some mechanical and trim components may be hard to source, especially body panels produced from unique carbon fibre molds. However, the Ford V8 drivetrain is robust and benefits from good parts availability thanks to its American origin. Attention should be paid to the electronic and electrical systems, and specialists familiar with composite body repairs are recommended for any structural work.

Engine, Performance, and Driving Dynamics

The MG XPower SV-R’s 5.0-litre aluminium V8 delivers formidable acceleration—0–60 mph in just under 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 282 km/h (175 mph). The unique sound of the V8, described as ‘addictive’ and ‘deep’, is a key part of the driving experience. With rear-wheel drive, aggressive Michelin Sport tyres, Brembo brakes, and a sophisticated chassis, the car delivers agile handling and remarkable road holding, especially given its relatively low weight of around 1,500 kg. MG XPower SV-R: 5.0-litre V8, 385 PS, 0–60 mph in 4.9–5.1 s, top speed 282 km/h MG XPower SV: Lower-output V8, same carbon fibre-based platform

Design, Interior, and Equipment

Peter Stevens, the creative mind behind the McLaren F1, gave the XPower a distinctive, track-focused exterior. Standout features include Fiat projector headlights, unique MG-OZ 18-inch alloy wheels, and a highly functional aerodynamic kit on SV-R models. The interior blends high-grade materials—Bridge of Weir leather, Alcantara, stainless steel trims, exposed carbon fibre, and specially dyed wool carpets from Italy—for a motorsport-inspired yet refined feel. A fully integrated roll cage, four-point harnesses with tensioners, and bucket Recaro seats offered as standard or options point to the model’s uncompromising sporting intent. Factory extras included metallic paint, kinetic effect finishes, heated and ventilated seats, and state-of-the-art Becker navigation and Infinity sound system (for its era).

Other Features and Market Details

Each MG XPower SV or SV-R typically comes with an extensive documentation package, including handbooks, service manuals, original part catalogues, and sometimes the specialist book ‘MG XPower SV’ by David Knowles. The XPower’s club scene and historic coverage, plus high-profile owners like Rowan Atkinson, contribute to its continued relevance among British sports car collectors.

Summary of the MG XPower Series

With just 82 SV and 42 SV-R models built, the MG XPower stands as one of the most exclusive British sports cars of its era. Uniting carbon fibre architecture, Ford V8 power, and distinctive design by Peter Stevens, the XPower offers a unique blend of modern engineering with classic, no-compromise performance. Its scarcity, individual craftsmanship, and documented ownership history make it a sought-after entry point for enthusiasts and collectors with a passion for the rare and ambitious side of British motoring.