In this rivalry, we compare two B-Segment hot hatches from the 00’s. On the left, the MG ZR 160 from Great Britain, was the fastest version of the Rover 25. On the right, the Peugeot 206 RC from France, also known as the GTi 180 in the UK, was inspired by the success of the 206 WRC car. Both models featured stiffer suspension, 17″ wheels, larger brakes and uprated engines compared to the lesser variants, and were known for their competitive performance figures and great handling.
So lets start with a design battle before we move on to their specifications.
Exterior
Interior
Engine
Specifications
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Model | MG ZR 160 | Peugeot 206 RC / GTi 180 |
Production | 2001-2005 | 2003-2006 |
Segment | B | B |
Doors | 3/5 | 3 |
Layout | FWD | FWD |
Engine Displacement | 1796 cm3 | 1997 cm3 |
Cylinders | L4 | L4 |
Induction | Naturally Aspirated | Naturally Aspirated |
Fuel | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Fuel System | Multipoint Injection | Multipoint Injection |
Power (hp) | 160 | 177 |
Power (kw) | 118 | 130 |
Power (@rpm) | @6900 rpm | @7000 rpm |
Torque (Nm) | 174 | 202 |
Torque (@rpm) | @4700 rpm | @4750 rpm |
0-100km/h | 7,8 | 7,4 |
Top Speed (km/h) | 210 km/h | 220 km/h |
Top Speed (mph) | 130 mph | 137 mph |
Consumption (lt/100km) | 7,5 | 8,6 |
CO2 (g/km) | 179 g/km | 204 g/km |
Gearbox | 5 MT | 5 MT |
Weight | 1090 kg | 1100 kg |
Length | 4011 mm | 3840 mm |
Width | 1689 mm | 1669 mm |
Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase | 2499 mm | 2441 mm |
Front Track | 1473 mm | 1440 mm |
Rear Track | 1458 mm | 1430 mm |
Boot Space | 303 | 246 |
Tire Size | 205/45 R17 | 205/40 R17 |
Front Brakes | 282 mm Ventilated Discs | 283 mm Ventilated Discs |
Rear Brakes | 260 mm Discs | 247 mm Discs |
So which one do you prefer;
As french i’ll go for the 206. Engine wise it was better. But mg classic look is more interesting and is timeless.
Thanks for your comment Trollien, I agree with your remarks however there is a possibility that the MG ZR looks more interesting because it wasn’t such a common sight in the roads as the very popular Peugeot 206.