Actually, in fairness, Top Gear hasnt been that bad about MG. The ZT V8 was supposed to be the top of the range MG, but even the .org'ers admit that the V6 190 was probably a better car, and so back handed compliments are probably all it deserves.
The ZS and ZT were favourably reviewed by Tiff Needell (as youve seen on youtube), the SV was liked (especially as it tried to eat clarkson), and the ZS was favourably reviewed by Clarkson in his Times article. In one show I was amazed to see a couple of months back, he was stood next to an MX5, and MR2 and a Fiat Barchetta and declared he would rather have had an MG TF.
Another review you might want to look out for was a top gear review comparing the mk1 ZS 180 against the old civic type r and a clio RS. A rather dodgy quality video of it is here:
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x8t...-rs-mg-zs_auto (just seen this was posted above)
Also, theres this evo review comparing the mk1 ZS 180 with another civic type r, a clio 172 and this time also a Golf V5. It also contains this gem (spoiler alert):
Quote:
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The MG ZS 180 is the surprise of the bunch, proving to be a thoroughly well sorted car with character and ability in equal measure.
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So, overall, the reviews of the ZS especially were fair, but generally very positive. The only bit they picked on was the fact it was old tech, essentially, but then why change what works so damned well?