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MG ENTHUSIAST MAY 2022 VOLUME 52 NO.5 ISSUE NO.413

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I was asked to take over the editorship of MG Enthusiast at the end last year, I went into it with an open mind. The MG scene has been W henofa huge part of my life since my childhood and it’s a brand I have loved

and adored all the way through, but it’s contstantly evolving. Like many people, I have my favourite era of MGs. My age, I suspect, dictates that it’s the 1980s and 1990s, but I wouldn’t love those cars (flaws and all) were it not for the MGs that came before. Indeed, I’d give my left arm to own an MGA Coupé as well. And what’s not to love about the MGB and Midget, which have long been the mainstay of the entire classic car industry in the UK. I had the pleasure of choosing my favourite Midget this month, and I’d be keen to know if you agree. But this issue, while we keep a firm eye on the past, we raise an eyebrow to the future. As well as the usual mix, you’ll find a feature on the Vital Spark MGB GT, which takes the traditional MGB appeal and electrifies it. Pun intended, but I’m sure it’ll polarise opinion. I’d be really keen to learn if your view is positive or negative, so please drop me an email at mg-ed@kelsey.co.uk and let me know your thoughts. This month, I’ve also spent a week behind the wheel of a modern MG ZS – a very different type of car to the 2001-2005 ZS which I make no apology for calling one of my favourite cars of all time. Indeed, in handling terms the old ZS knocks the new one into a cocked hat – but what about in other areas? You can find out what I thought of it on P62, but let’s just say the scenery helped. Regardless, it’s good to see the brand we love thriving and if what the jungle drums are telling me is correct, we can look forward to some much more exciting cars around the corner that are much more attuned to their MG DNA. Bringing things full circle, our cover car this month is James Davis’s absolutely stunning MGA, a car than anyone with even the slightest drop of petrol running through their veins will identify as a fabulous car, with absolutely zero debate. Tragically, James passed away shortly after our photoshoot and it is with thanks to him, his family and those who were close to James – a well-loved figure in the automotive industry that has been my life for the past 20 years – that we run the story with their blessing. However sad the story, we’re delighted that James managed to track down a car that meant so much to him and his father, and we thank his family from the bottom of our hearts for allowing us to run the story. Meantime, enjoy the issue and enjoy your MGs, for none of us know what’s around the corner. As I write this, the sun is blazing and it’s the perfect weather for a drive, so I’m going to live for the moment and take the TF out for a spin. Thanks for your continued support, which makes MG Enthusiast one of the most special magazines ever produced. Craig Cheetham, Editor

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MGE MAY 2022 3

MAY 2022 VOLUME 52 NO.5 ISSUE 413

Archive

Technical

MG AT BROOKLANDS OUR MGS TECHNICAL Roger Parker from Mike Taylor recalls the glory Richard Colby gets stuck into his the MGOC takes you through tax days of MG on the famous banked circuit and MOT exemption rules and regulations MGB GT resto 4 MGE MAY 2022

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6 NEWS The latest new car news from MG, an amazing gesture from an enthusiast and a new General Manager for the MG Car Club 13 PRODUCTS All the latest treats for your classic MGs, from Sebring kits to dashboard light upgrades 16 MGA TWIN CAM James Davies tracked down his father’s old MGA Twin Cam and returned it to the road. Andy Starkey met him and his car 28 MGF ABINGDON SE James Thornborough wanted a cheap runabout, but he ended up with one of the rarest MGFs ever made 38 MG MIDGET – WHICH IS BEST? Our editor takes a look at every generation of Midget and chooses his favourite – which one would you buy? 52 VITAL SPARK Electrifying an MGB might be considered controversial, but is it the future? Steve Hole finds out 62 SKYE’S THE LIMIT We tackle one of Scotland’s most beautiful tourist routes in a new ZS – it’s the perfect route for a classic sports car, but how does the new model stack up? 83 EVENTS We visit Rétromobile, the NEC and the MGCC Brands Hatch season opener 88 CLASSIFIED ADS Buy your next MG here 96 AUTOMOBILIA Andrew Ralston checks out the Schuco Piccolo MGA, a toy of great quality 98 NEXT ISSUE Coming up in your June MGE

96 www.mgenthusiast.com

David Knowles updates us on the latest International MG news

MG THAILAND GETS RHD MG HS FACELIFT The right hand drive ‘New’ MG HS PHEV (white car at left) and MG HS (red car) were unveiled at the Bangkok Motor Show at the end of March.

Last year the MG HS in China received a facelift which gave it a new nose and various trim changes, which in that market was accompanied by a new model name of MG ‘Pilot’ or ‘Lingang’. It seemed inevitable that this new style – closer to other models since released, such as the non-European market MG5, the recent MG ‘One’ and forthcoming MG4 which we showed as ‘teaser’ images last month, but experience has shown that sometimes these mid-life facelifts never go outside China, or if they do, only to some limited left-handdrive markets. However there is a new dynamic in play, in the form of the Thai MG joint-venture, which builds right hand drive MG models, largely for local consumption, but increasingly for regional export to other markets in the southern hemisphere where right hand drive in the norm, and the logistics and costs of export stack up. Nobody should under-estimate the importance of the Thai market, which is growing in size and maturity; SAIC is now a leading player in the country, with a number of MG badged models that are unique to the local market (and in a few cases rather bizarre to outsiders – such as MG pickups and people carriers). The MG ZS EV 6 MGE MAY 2022

is already on sale, and had proved to be a popular model in a growing sector of the Thai market, most recently bolstered by Thai government incentives. The Bangkok Motor Show, which took place in late March and early April, not only saw the introduction of the latest ‘smooth-nosed’ MG ZS EV which is now becoming familiar in other markets (already doing well in the UK and Europe; more recently, as we saw last

month, in India too) but perhaps more interesting was the unveiling in Bangkok of the facelifted MG HS and MG HS PHEV duo – the manufacturer (SAIC Motor-CP) and distributor (MG Sales [Thailand]) have dubbed them simply as the ‘New MG HS’ and ‘New MG PHEV’ respectively. The company stated at Bangkok that models were being introduced under what it calls the “Refinement” concept; ‘...is a reflection of the premium sport www.mgenthusiast.com

NEW MG HS MODEL RANGE IN THAILAND NEW MG HS • NEW MG HS C • NEW MG HS D • NEW MG HS X NEW MG HS PHEV • NEW MG HS PHEV D • NEW MG HS PHEV X

The MG HS variants have a so-called ‘virtual dashboard’ with a graphic display which in some way is strangely reminiscent With its panoramic roof and optional light-coloured upholstery, the New MG HS in both of the rare MG Montego Turbo electronic variants offers a pleasant, light and airy interior fascia of three decades back

SUV with unique design, that perfectly combines luxury and sport elements as well as other functions and features to create better driving experiences. The models are also outstanding for their AR NAVIGATION system which works in coordination with the front camera in displaying the environment and navigation in real time. With the i-SMART system that has also been developed for convenience, the models also come with Digital Key Technology, 26 Advanced Synchronized Protection Systems as well as Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), Plenty of technology for geeks.

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MGE MAY 2022 7

in other words. Both variants have the familiar SAIC four-cylinder 1.5-litre turbo engine, whilst the Plug-in Hybrid technology in the PHEV version delivers a claimed maximum output of 284ps. The lithiumion battery, with a capacity of 16.6 kWh, allows the driver of the ‘New MG HS PHEV’ to use the pure EV Mode for up to 67 kilometres (41 miles), helpful for shorter urban commutes. In Thailand, these models come in a choice of just four paint colours - namely ‘Arctic White’, ‘Black Knight’, ‘Metal Ash Grey’, and ‘Scarlet Red’. This means that the new nose, with the latest Chinese MG ‘face’, has finally arrived outside China and of course, being in right hand drive form, the obvious question follows – will it be coming to the UK and Europe? To date there is no news on the likelihood of this; The ‘New’ MG HS has previously only been offered in China; Thailand marks the first time indeed MG Motor UK frankly told us that the new nose has been seen anywhere else. This is standard petrol engine version, with the the Bangkok unveiling was as much of a familiar 1.5-litre engine. surprise to them as it was to us. The fact that the petrol-engined MG HS and the hybrid ‘PHEV’ version may have a short life in Europe, where the local distributor prefers to focus on the MG Marvel X, may mean that we will not get the MG HS facelift, but instead one of the newer models in the pipeline; perhaps the MG4 or anticipated facelift of the Marvel X. Confused? We wouldn’t blame you.

NEW MG HS SAFETY SYSTEMS

The ‘New MG HS’ offers a 26-feature ‘Advanced Synchronized Protection System ‘which comprises 14 accident prevention, brake and stabilisation systems and 12 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) which help prevent accidents both from the front and the back of the vehicle, an equivalent to Autonomous Level 2. The twelve ADAS systems are: ■ Blind Spot Detection (BSD) ■ Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) ■ Door Open Warning (DOW) ■ Lane Change Assist (LCA) ■ Lane Departure Warning (LDW) ■ Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) ■ Lane Keep Assist (LKA) ■ Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) ■ Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) ■ Forward Collision Warning (FCW) ■ Intelligent High-Beam Control (IHC) ■ Autonomous Emergency Brake (AEB) 8 MGE MAY 2022

Also on show at Bangkok was the facelifted Petrol-electric hybrid (‘PHEV’) version, which offers up to 41 miles in pure electric mode www.mgenthusiast.com

MG SPORTS CAR COMING There have been many MG sports car false-dawns since production of the MG TF, the story of which was covered in last month’s issue, went out of production twelve years ago; there have been stories from the days when Nanjing Auto (NAC) was in charge, and then under SAIC management, there were several rumours and even a concept in 2012 for a kind of sporty SUV called ‘MG Icon’; none of those concepts ever came close to production, however. Hopefully the same will not be the case with the MG Cyberster, however, which we have covered in issues over the past year since it made its debut at last year’s Shanghai Motor Show. By the time this issue goes on sale, the 2022 Beijing Auto Show will have

Last year, the Cyberster sports car concept took centrestage on a packed MG stand at the Shanghai Auto Show; we’re looking forward to the promised production version.

come and gone – and we understand that an updated concept, said to be virtually production-ready, may have been shown. MG distributors in several markets, notably the UK and Thailand, are speaking confidently of adding the new all-electric MG sports car to their ranges – although it seems likely that the MG4 may be first into showrooms in the interest of maintaining sales momentum. At the introduction of the concept last year, MG was confident that the new sports car could offer a frankly remarkable 497-mile range and acceleration of 0-62mph in less than three seconds; it will be interesting to see if this remains the case with a toned-down production version.

MGs IN THE PIPELINE... We can expect a busy period as MG heads for its ‘century’ (letters to debate whether that should be celebrated in 2023 or 2024 to the Editor, please...). Here are our predictions: ■ MG3 – New model to replace the existing hatchback that dates from the first version of 2011 ■ MG4 – New Focus-sized hatchback as shown in the ‘teaser’ images last month ■ MG5 EV Estate – the facelifted model on sale in Europe, with its smoother chrome-free nose, may be

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expected to join the UK range ■ MG ZS and ZS EV – mainstay of the MG range, we may expect some moderate tweaks ■ MG HS and HS PHEV – will we see the facelifted ‘New’ model as described above? ■ MG Cyberster – we suspect that a different name will be used for the production car ■ Larger SUV – three years ago, the author saw a concept car in Anting dubbed the ‘MG PS’ that was around the size of the Jaguar F-Pace; maybe it will spawn a new model to be

extend the range upwards? ■ MG Marvel X Mark II – on sale in Europe, there has been talk of a second-generation version of this smart upmarket all-electric SUV – which could conceivably appear in RHD version for the UK In addition to the above, MG Motor India has been exploring the addition of a smaller electric car, and will further develop other models exclusively for its local market. There is no news on whether we will get models like the MG One or the anticipated next-generation MG6. MGE MAY 2022 9

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WORDS: Craig Cheetham

MG Car Club Appoints new General Manager

The MG Car Club has appointed Mike Stafford to the permanent role of its General Manager. Mike has been covering the role in a caretaker capacity for the past three months but has now been appointed into the role full-time. A former MG Rover Group senior technician and an expert in K-Series engine as well as all types of mechanics, Mike has run MJS Auto and Marine for the past 15 years – one of the UK’s leading K-Series tuners and head gasket replacement specialists. He and his son,

Jacob, have repaired over 1,000 MGs between them and know the models inside out, especially the F, TF and Z Cars, which are rapidly booming in popularity as more and more younger enthusiasts

become MG Car Club members. One of Mike’s first jobs will be to successfully deliver the return of MG Live!, which takes place at Silverstone on the weekend of June 11-12.

family ties to Eastern Europe, we couldn't stand by and do nothing,” said Richard. “We decided to donate two vehicles to the Ukrainian Medical Services. The first (Land Rover Freelander) has undergone a conversion to a First Response car and is kitted out with medical supplies, spinal boards and trauma kits. The second (Fiat Ducato) was converted into a frontline emergency Ambulance. The Ambulances4Ukraine team are working with the full support and guidance of the Ukraine Embassy in London, as well as receiving huge

Guernsey Transport Solutions (GTS) and A-Cute Medical. They are planning to donate and prepare further response vehicles once the two vehciles they have are put into service. They are still in urgent need of emergency roof bars and beacons for future vehicles, along with sterile medical equipment. Kyiv resident and friend of Richard and Gosia, Inna Dashchenko, said: "Our medical defenders are waiting for these vehicles to evacuate wounded people from Bucha, Irpen and other hot points. To carry wounded soldiers from the battle fields to hospitals... the vehicles will do so many good things.” Donations to the cause can be made here https://www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ ambulances4ukraine?utm_ term=q4qk89GYE Just Giving charges a percentage fee, but Richard and Gosia have agreed to match it so it cancels out any platform charges, meaning anyone who donates can be guaranteed that 100% of their generous pledge goes directly to support frontline medics.

Kind-hearted MG owners donate ambulances to Ukraine support from Thurston, Condor Ferries, “Having team members with direct A husband-and-wife team of classic car enthusiasts from the New Forest are to donate two fully prepared vehicles to support Ukrainian medical services as part of a life-saving mission to get aid across Eastern Europe. Richard and Gosia Myers, who own an MG ZT and have previously owned a ZS and multiple MG Rover classics, have enlisted the help of a number of local businesses to prepare the two vehicles a Land Rover Freelander first response vehicle and a Fiat Ducato ambulance, which they have prepped and delivered to frontline medics in Ukraine.

12 MGE MAY 2022

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The pick of the latest new products for your MG Words: Craig Cheetham

Original Midget Wheel Bearings

Priced at £54.95 each The original RHP front wheel bearings used on the MG Midget, Austin Healey Sprite and Morris Minor have been out of production for many years. Reproduction non-face adjusted bearings are available, however these do not achieve the service life of the originals requiring more frequent replacement when excess play is detected. MGOC Spares has sourced a limited quantity of original RHP bearings. Face adjusted to within one thousandth of an inch and machined with the correct internal radius to fit against the MG Midget stub axle fillet. The RHP bearings are said to be the only bearings the car will ever need. To order call MGOC Spares and Accessories on 01954 230928 | www.mgocspares.co.uk

Dimmable dash bulbs for MGB

MGB GT Sebring Kit

Priced at £675 Specifically developed by BMC’s Competition Department in 1967 to compete in endurance competitions the lightweight GTS Sebring made for an iconic looking GT with its flared wheel arches, bulging bonnet and 9J wheels. Working with a specialist fibreglass mouldings manufacturer, MGOC Spares can now offer a new, improved Sebring wing kit comprising front and rear half wings manufactured for bonding to the car, under part number H096. Complete your Sebring evocation with a Front Spoiler (H085) £104.95, Rear Sebring Rear Valance (H090) £89.95, Headlamp Cowls (AJJ3307) £84.95, Fitting kit (AJJ3308) £32.95, Works Style Leather Straps (ACC3381) £19.75 and Mesh Grille Kit (K610) £99.95. To order call MGOC Spares and Accessories on 01954 230928 | www.mgocspares.co.uk

Priced at £59.99 or £64.99 (positive earth) Most of us now know that we can transform the usually dim and dangerous dash lighting on our beloved classic cars by upgrading to LED bulbs, but it has been a source of irritation that a standard dimmer switch will then be rendered useless. They are either on or off. For more than a decade, electronic development companies around the world have been trying to produce LED dash lighting bulbs that will dim with the original rheostat. Until now, none have succeeded, but now Better Car Lighting have produced new LED replacements for the original Lucas 987 bulbs which are very bright, and will dim beautifully using the standard dimmer switch. This kit will upgrade the warning lights too, and will also provide a solution to the problem that the charging system will stop working if you upgrade the ignition warning light to LED. In the kit there is a quick-fitting resistor lead, and with that fitted your charging system will work correctly regardless of what type of bulb is fitted. These new fully dimmable LED bulbs for the instruments are available in warm white, ivory white, daylight white, ice blue, sapphire blue and green. Available from 4Sight on 0121 773 7000 | www.bettercarlighting.com

MGC Polyur

Priced at £15.95 New to the range at MGOC Spares & Accessories are polyurethane lower king pin bushes for the MGC, harshness and longevity number AHC722X4. To order c 01954 230928 | www

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MGE MAY 2022 13

SHEPPERTON, MIDDLESEX TEL: 01932 241843 / 07836 281493 WWW.CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM EMAIL: MGSALES@CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM or USEDMGTF@GMAIL.COM

High power headlight upgrades for all models including early cars.

MG TF 115 Coolblue Limited Edition MG TF LE 500 + H/top,#484/500 Just 33,900 Just 1 owner & 11,450miles

Very low mileage, large fully documented history, serviced at 5375m, 7240m, 8877m, 9341m, 10965m, 11192m, paperwok plus original bill of sale. The Coolblue came with a Blue hood, black leather seats with Blue alcantara inserts/ door inserts, Momo leather/ alloy gear knob, leather steering wheel, 16” abingdon alloy wheels, chrome grille pack, wind deﬂector, front fog lights. Outstanding condition, can only go up in £8,495 value.

MG ZT 2.5 V6 190 PLUS, just 67,000miles

2006 (56 Reg) 67,000 Miles Manual Petrol A rare Low mileage MG ZT 190, just 2 owner with fully detailed service history (huge history file with bills old mots etc), Cambelt belts/water pump changed at 65,683 miles plus a new clutch/flywheel. Finished in Ignition blue with black leather seats with grey Alcantara inserts, air condition, 18” alloy wheels. Low mileage model of these superb cars are getting very hard to find, only for sale due to the owner passing away, this ZT is in Outstanding condition inside and out would make a excellent showcar, would be hard to find a better one £4,595 anywhere.

Full spec LE500 #484/500. MG owned and one Lady owner, having covered just 33,900 miles with fully documented history mostly MG main dealer, serviced @ 2,747m, 8,831m, 13,312m, 17,579m, 18,847m,21,442m, 22,387m, 27,675m, 32,691m, Just serviced by us and ﬁtted with a new Cambelt / water pump, plus a new mot. Fitted with a removable hardtop, black soft top with glass screen, Air condition, soft ride suspension, Black leather sport seats, park sensor. £9,895

MG TF 135 Convertible 2004 (04 Reg) 65,000 miles

This isa rare earlyIgnition Blue 2005 chassis TF135. Manual, petrol. Previously supplied by us back in 2015 at 58,000 miles. Full service history (including Headgaskets/ water pumps/cambelts, stainless water pipes) with bills & old mots. Spec includes ABS braking, front fog lights, engine water level sensor, Blue hood with a glass heated rear screen, Black leather seats with grey alcantara inserts also ﬁtted with its original Kenwood upgraded Stereo/Cd unit, just serviced plus a new Mot with no £3,695 advisories.

Superb quality reproduction PL700 Tribar headlights now in stock. Designed to work with halogen or LED. From £199.99+VAT. High power tail, brake and ORANGE ﬂasher conversions for T Types. 32mm dia

28 x 38mm

all within the standard light & lens 2004 MG TF 135, Leather seats, Glass screen, just 36,000 miles

A very, very low mileage, good spec TF135 having covered just 36,000 miles, fitted with full Black leather seats, Black hood with a Glass heated rear screen, 15” alloy wheels making it a softer ride. A new headgasket just fitted 22/06/21 at 35,643 miles, full documented service history, supplied serviced and with a new MOT, £4,495 outstanding condition.

MG MGF FREESTYLE VVC, just 49,000 miles

Rare Freestyle VVC with a very low mileage, having been stored for a few years. These where the last ltd edition MGF’s made, MGF Trophys look a likes but with a softer ride. Front & rear spoilers,16” ‘SE’ alloys, Black leather sport seats, silver console/air vents/door trims. This is the even rarer VVC model. Documented service history bills old mots etc, original £4,995 MG stereo/CD.

This is just a small selection from our stock

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Travels with my father MGA TWIN CAM

James Davis followed his dad, and his dad's racing MGA, around the globe and back to the UK.

WORDS AND PHOTOS: ANDY STARKEY

he universe can throw up all kinds of challenges for us mere mortals. Not only do we have to strive to be the best we can be, in an ever more challenging world, but recently we have all endured the rigours of a world pandemic. We all have to live on through the heartache of whatever the world has to throw at us but there are stories that uplift 16 MGE MAY 2022

and prove to us all that the universe can indeed do the right thing. This one starts with one man and his MGA. Rob Davis loved life, motor racing and his MGs. He purchased this lovely MGA in 1963 from the eminent and famous Commercial Artist Renato Fratini; a chap worth looking up online as he painted many iconic movie posters of the ’60s, including From Russia With

Love. Once it was in Rob’s hands it wasn’t long before the car was pressed into service on the race track, at a time when all you needed to race was a car, tape for the headlights and a helmet. Naturally, Rob felt he was at liberty to improve his MG for racing where he could, so the suspension was modified at the front and some superior telescopic shocks added to the rear. He www.mgenthusiast.com

MGA TWIN CAM

HE PURCHASED THIS LOVELY MGA IN 1963 FROM THE EMINENT AND FAMOUS COMMERCIAL ARTIST RENATO FRATINI...

was able to obtain one of the last Works race engines from Abingdon which went into the car along with a pair of two-inch SU carbs. The clocks in the dash were swapped around by Rob so that the rev counter now sat directly in his eye-line. For the all-important, improved grip, a set of wheels was banded wider. With that he was off, racing at one place or another most weekends in what was www.mgenthusiast.com

then his black MGA. Rob married shortly after buying the car in ’63 and, by ’73, Rob and Denise had a son named James. Unfortunately, in the late 1970s the family was upturned by divorce, a new marriage and a move by Rob to Barbados with his new wife Bonnie. James remained in the UK with his mother Denise until he was old enough to attend boarding school.

The MG had to stay in the UK for a time, lodging with Rob’s friends in Kent and then at his sister’s house in Essex. By 1987 Rob had made room enough in his life once more for his beloved MG so arrangements were made for the car to be shipped over to Barbados. James too was at an age when he could enjoy holidays with his father and Bonnie and, of course, become better acquainted MGE MAY 2022 17

MGA TWIN CAM with Dad’s racing MG. The car had not travelled well on the way over from the UK and needed some remedial bodywork when it finally arrived. James can remember lending a hand. “Dad decided to change the colour yet again, to green, at the same time as doing the repairs. It was black from new, then blue and then a lovely deep burgundy, which was Rolls Royce Regal Red, and stayed like that until reaching Barbados. I’m sure I wasn’t much use really but I did enjoy spending my time learning all about the car and it was during one of these summer visits when he told me that one day the car would come to be mine.” The MG and James were to enjoy many a summer cruising the back roads of Barbados with his dad behind the wheel. “The sun would be in our faces and the hot wind rushing by as dad drove with his usual exuberance,” James recalls; a very idyllic picture indeed. This would be the life of the MG for a good few years and for James too. He’d head for sunnier climes and leave the gloom of life in the Midlands whenever school, and then work, commitments allowed, until 2010 that is. This was when Rob decided to retire, pack up and move again, this time to Canada, Bonnie’s home country. Here too the car arrived in a slightly poorer state than when it left. The rear bumper had been pushed in against the bodywork so it was time for some more repairs and, you guessed it, another colour change: still green but a change nevertheless. Rob had the work done by some local Canadian experts who not only de-bumpered the car but suggested de-seaming too; a look that, James's MGA is a beautifully restored example with dilgent attention to detail, right down to a spare spark plug holder under the bonnet

18 MGE MAY 2022

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MGA TWIN CAM

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MGE MAY 2022 19

MGA TWIN CAM some feel, accentuates its lovely shape. Soon after the move to Canada, and very soon after getting the MG fettled, Rob was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, a condition that was to take away all his knowledge and memories of racing the car and sharing its adventures with James. This was a slow and agonising process for all and, to further compound the hurt, Bonnie had to sell the beloved MGA in 2016 to help pay for Rob’s continuing care. It seemed that the promise made to James of eventually owning the MG had to be broken. Thankfully, it went to a good home, a chap heavily into the Twin-Cams who lived in Salem, Massachusetts. There it received the attention it deserved. It had fallen into mild disrepair because,

20 MGE MAY 2022

as Rob’s condition deteriorated, so too did his ability to care for the car. In the hands of the new owner, the engine was tuned and a Ford Type 9 gearbox was added to give it extra cruising legs with a 5th gear. A couple of years later James tracked the new owner down to see if there might be a possibility of buying the MG back. Negotiations did not go in James’ favour. The car could be bought but for a premium that James couldn’t match. He had to face the cold reality that the car was not going to be his. During his life of travelling back and forth to spend time with Rob, Bonnie and the MG, James had accrued all

sorts of little spares and memorabilia concerning the Twin-Cams: books and magazines as well as photographs and prints, things that, now the MG had gone, seemed a little redundant. So he sold most of it to like-minded fans of the car and one print in particular, which showed two MGA Twin-Cams at Goodwood, was sold via a well-known auction site. James decided to deliver the print in person and was amazed to find that the guys that had bought the print

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MGA TWIN CAM

THE MG AND JAMES WERE TO ENJOY MANY A SUMMER CRUISING THE BACK ROADS OF BARBADOS WITH HIS DAD BEHIND THE WHEEL.

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MGE MAY 2022 21

MGA TWIN CAM

Cabin is dominated by gorgeous three-spoke wood-rimmed wheel. Seats have a gentle patina to them

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MGA TWIN CAM

I THOUGHT THAT THE ULTIMATE WAY OF HELPING THE CAUSE WOULD BE TO DONATE THE CAR ITSELF TO THEM WHEN I’M DONE WITH IT...

were none other than the owners of the cars in the picture: a father and son pairing of Roger and Mark Daniels, well known in MGA racing circles. The next extraordinary coincidence to be revealed was that Roger had competed against James’ dad at Brands Hatch and had a trophy to prove it. With all these things linking everyone together, James told the story of Rob’s MG and the agony of parting with it. Roger and Mark both agreed that in no way should the story be over and that James would eventually win the car back, although James wasn’t so sure. www.mgenthusiast.com

With the universe having manoeuvred in one of its mysterious ways, James later discovered the MGA for sale in the classic car classifieds, here in the UK, and only days after meeting Roger and Mark. He called the Wirral-based dealer and explained he needed to buy it. The MG was pretty much the same as when he saw it last apart from the few modifications the Salem owner had done. He refused a test drive at this point and, as a matter of fact, up to that very moment he had never driven it. After all, that had always been his father's prerogative.

The required funds were scrambled together and the deal was done at a sizeable reduction on the price asked when James had attempted to buy it back from the USA just a couple of years before. At least it was now home again. He gave the task of checking the car out to Neil Burnside of Two Cam Garage, near Silverstone. “It wasn’t so much a recommissioning”, James tells me, “it was more I wanted someone with the knowledge to check it thoroughly.” A little work was undertaken by Neil on the brakes, hand brake and rear axle, plus fixing the MGE MAY 2022 23

MGA TWIN CAM fuel gauge which had never worked according to James. “Dad had to dip the tank with a stick but we still ran out of fuel regularly.” The joy of getting the beloved MG back was inevitably tinged with sadness, though, as the good news couldn’t be shared with Rob. His dementia had progressed to the point where he couldn’t recognise James anymore and was certainly not able to

24 MGE MAY 2022

appreciate the return of the car to James’ ownership. By late 2019 Rob had passed away, unaware of the MG’s return. During the difficult years following Rob’s diagnosis James had been stalwart in raising awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Society. He has raised somewhere in the region of £17,000 in various ways and, during a telephone conversation with the Society regarding future events, he suddenly realised what he needed to do with

the Twin-Cam. He had already taken it to shows and left the story on the screen for people to read along with a collection tin, which always raised a few quid. People would stop and talk about the MG and describe their perceptions of dementia. The car and its story certainly served as a catalyst for a deeper conversation but what James decided to do was to allow the car to really benefit the Society by leaving it to them in his will. In his own words, he told me:

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MGA TWIN CAM “I thought that the ultimate way of helping the cause would be to donate the car itself to them when I’m done with it and let them auction it off. That’d be a fitting legacy from both me and my dad.” That is exactly what he has done and James’ will now stipulates that the Society will benefit from all the proceeds generated from the MG’s future sale. In the meantime James

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plucked up the courage to drive and enjoy the car for himself and use it, and his story, to engage with people, raising awareness, providing advice and raising valuable funds as an ambassador for the Society. He created an online presence and Facebook page to help the cause (just search for MGAlzheimers to take a look). Sometimes, when the universe appears to be laying out a story of

great sadness, it can actually hold forgiveness and hope within. Something that we all can appreciate, I think. It is with great sadness that shortly after meeting James and photographing the car, he too passed away. I can honestly say that I have been very privileged to have met him, even as briefly as it was, and to have been able to tell the story of his father’s MGA as he wanted me to. Thank you, James.

MGE MAY 2022 25

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Paying Homage 1998 MGF ABINGDON LE

The Abingdon LE was the first of several special edition MGFs. James Thornborough struck lucky with his, as he was only looking for a cheap runabout. • WORDS: CRAIG CHEETHAM; INTERVIEW: AARON MACKAY; PHOTOS: GREGORY OWAIN

28 MGE MAY 2022

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1998 MGF ABINGDON LE

hen James Thornborough was looking for an inexpensive runabout, there really was only one choice. An MG man through and through, James already owns an MGC as a show car so it stood to reason that his cheap and cheerful daily driver should be an MGF. After all, they’re by far the most accessible way into MG ownership. He found a suitable candidate, on the online sales platform Gumtree, for sale at an independent garage for just £1,200. It had a few cosmetic issues to sort out but was in sound condition overall and the perfect basis for a car that he could improve. It was also an Abington LE Special Edition, a car with a level of significance in MGF circles. Introduced in spring 1998, the Abingdon LE was the very first MGF special, limited-edition, based upon both the 1.8i and VVC. The car's more luxurious specification included full 'walnut' beige leather upholstery, a beige soft top and paint colour unique to the model at the time: Brooklands Green (a kind of dark, non-metallic British Racing Green). Other cosmetic improvements included an interior and exterior chrome pack; chrome ashtray, lighter, chrome exterior door handles and stainless steel grilles. Also standard, and first seen on this MGF, were the six-spoke, 'Abingdon-style', 16-inch wheels fitted with Goodyear F1 (215/40R16) tyres. The wheels looked fantastic, were soon to be found on the options list for all MGFs and have proven an extremely popular design. James decided, there and then, that this Abingdon LE would be his car, even though its history was patchy in places and it needed work. That was in 2019 and, three years later, it's fair to say that James's car has come a long way. “I wanted a car that I could use but also improve,” said James. “And this one was ideal. Not only was it a rare www.mgenthusiast.com

MGE MAY 2022 29

HE FOUND A SUITABLE CANDIDATE, ON THE ONLINE SALES PLATFORM GUMTREE, FOR SALE AT AN INDEPENDENT GARAGE FOR JUST £1,200.

special edition - one of only 500 UKspec cars made and of around 1,500 worldwide - but it was a great colour and specification, something that really appealed to me.” James’s Abingdon LE is made even rarer because it's a VVC, which not only means extra power and performance, but marks it out as one of only 150 ‘official’ home-market MGFs to be fitted with the more powerful, variable-valvetimed, engine. While there were gaps in its history, a lot of the early detail was there in the F’s service book. It had been supplied new by Welpton's of Hessle, 30 MGE MAY 2022

on the outskirts of Hull, East Yorkshire. It originally wore the cherished registration number A20 TAB and had been owned by its original keeper for five years, changing hands in May 2003. Thereafter, it had been independently looked after by CB Motors of Beverly and, over the next 16 years, it covered a very low mileage, the odometer increasing from 27,000 miles to just over 30,000 miles between 2003 and 2019, which is when he acquired it from CB Motors. Despite the low mileage, the MGF had been well-maintained and no expense appears to have been spared with some

of the repairs. Among the tasks carried out by CB Motors during the previous owner’s tenure were a reconditioned cylinder head, new Hydragas spheres, a clutch replacement and new underbody coolant pipes. All of these are common MGF repair points so to know that the jobs have been carried out offered James quite a bit of peace of mind. On speaking to CB Motors, he had also been able to find out a little about his F’s history. The reason it had covered such a low mileage is because, sadly, not long after buying the car, the previous owner had found out that she had an illness that meant she wasn't www.mgenthusiast.com

1998 MGF ABINGDON LE

Abingdon LE was the most luxurious expression of the MGF, with unique Walnut Beige upholstery and matching dash infills

James sourced a new gearknob and gaiter surround to really give the LE's interior a lift www.mgenthusiast.com

MGE MAY 2022 31

1998 MGF ABINGDON LE

able to drive. Because she loved it, it was kept and she was driven in it occasionally. “At some point, my MGF was a very special car to somebody,” said James. “As a result of that, it's only fair that I continue to keep it as a very special car and ensure it gets preserved. After all, it might not be concours but it's only done just over 32,000 miles to this day.” Since acquiring it, he has carried out a number of improvements of his own. Shortly after buying it, he renewed the 32 MGE MAY 2022

brake discs and calipers, and added a new thermostat and a full exhaust system that he had managed to acquire for just £150, courtesy of MG and Alfa Spares, at the 2019 Harrogate Show. He's also replaced the clutch release arm and fitted a new alternator, not the easiest job in an MGF. In addition, he tracked down a walnut gear knob to match the rest of the interior. In 2020, his F saw some pretty comprehensive work in the form of a number of replacement body panels www.mgenthusiast.com

1998 MGF ABINGDON LE

...ONE OF ONLY 150 ‘OFFICIAL’ HOME-MARKET MGFS TO BE FITTED WITH THE MORE POWERFUL, VARIABLE-VALVE-TIMED, ENGINE

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MGE MAY 2022 33

1998 MGF ABINGDON LE

ACCORDING TO DVLA RECORDS, AT THE END OF 2021 THERE WERE JUST 30 MGF ABINGDON LEs LEFT REGISTERED ON UK ROADS AND EIGHT KEPT ON SORN...

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1998 MGF ABINGDON LE

Hardtop matches the Brooklands Green exterior colour, exclusive to the LE including both front wings, both doors, door mirrors and new door handles, sourced from a restored and then damaged MGF Abingdon LE. “The new panels really gave the car a lift,” said James. “I'd already had the sills painted but these were real improvements that help bring out the potential in the car. It's a long way from perfect, and it's a long way from finished, but it looks a lot better than it did when I bought it and it's a fun, usable and enjoyable everyday sports car.” As well as the front panels, James was also able to acquire a replacement Abingdon LE boot lid, should he need it, along with a tonneau cover, slam panel, wind deflector and floor mats, all of which will be useful for maintaining the MGF in the future. After all, it's a rare car. Based on records maintained by the MGF Register (www.mgfregister.org) there were slightly more than the official 500 UK examples made, with 352 MPis and 157 VVCs; the nine extra cars likely to be those used by Rover Group itself for press and marketing purposes. According to DVLA records, at the end of 2021 there were just 30 MGF Abingdon LEs left registered on UK roads and eight kept on SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification), making James’s car one of the most collectible MGF variants and a rarity well worth investing in to keep it on the road. With MGF numbers in steep decline, now is very much time to save one and that's exactly what James has done. We take our hats off to you, sir. www.mgenthusiast.com

MGE MAY 2022 35

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Midget gems 38 MGE MAY 2022

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MG Midget Mk 1-4

Over six decades since it first appeared, the humble Midget remains one of the most enjoyable and affordable ways into MG ownership. But which generation makes for the best no-nonsense buy?

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lthough it became one of the most successful MGs of alltime, the Midget was never intended to wear the famous octagonal badge at all. Developed through a tie-up with the British Motor Corporation (BMC) and the Healey Motor Company, the small sports car was a spin-off from the deal that brought us the “Big Healey” sports cars, with the smaller car being spun-off from the mechanical components of the Austin A35 in order to give BMC a bargain basement roadster based on a similar formula to the bigger cars. The recipe was simple: take the engine and gearbox from the A35, add a Morris Minor steering rack and install them in a Healey-designed chassis with a simple sports body. The result was the Frogeye Sprite, unveiled to great acclaim in 1958 and an immediate sales success, at the time the cheapest four-cylinder sports car on the market at £455. The standard car really did take the idea of basic to the limit: there wasn’t even an opening boot lid while heater, front bumper, tonneau, rev counter and even screen washer were on the options list. The Sprite’s construction was unusual, in that it was a kind of hybrid between a body-on-chassis and monocoque bodyshell. Box structures ran from the front of the central tub with an outrigger for the front suspension and steering. Two longitudinal structures connected this to a second crossmember under the scuttle, with the sills and propshaft tunnel connecting to the rear structure

MGE MAY 2022 39

MG Midget Mk 1-4 supporting the axle and suspension. We’ll come to this later, but it does tend to create some interesting rot-spots over six decades on! Originally, production was slated for the then sprawling Austin plant at Longbridge, but its unique design made it impossible to build alongside the A35 as the engine needed to be lowered in from above, and the A35 production line wasn’t able to accommodate this. There was, however, a lot of unused capacity at Abingdon, with MGA sales slowing right down and the MGB not yet launched. As such, the decision was taken by BMC to build the new car – the Austin-Healey Sprite – at the MG plant. The Mk1 Sprite with its distinctive one-piece bonnet and those ‘Frogeye’ headlights remained in production until late 1961, when the design was refined and the unusual looks made more conventional, moving the headlights out to the wings and adding such luxuries as an opening boot lid. At the same time, BMC identified an appetite for a new small MG – a spiritual replacement for the wooden-framed T-Type Midgets. So, in the summer of 1961, an MGbadged version of the car was launched, the idea being that the Midget would be slightly less basic than the AustinHealey. The MG Midget as we know it was born.

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Mk 1 (1961-64)

Introduced in June 1961, the original Midget was essentially a slightly more expensive, badge-engineered version of the Mk 2 Austin-Healey Sprite Deluxe and differed from the Sprite only in grille design, improved interior trim, better instruments and added external polished trim to justify its higher price. Mechanically the car was identical to its Austin-Healey counterpart, retaining the rear suspension using quarterelliptic leaf springs and trailing arms www.mgenthusiast.com

The engine was a 948 cc A-Series with twin SU carburettors producing 46bhp at 5,500 rpm and 53 lb ft of torque, with seven-inch drum brakes and rack-andpinion steering. It was still a very basic car despite being ‘posher’ than the Sprite, with no door handles (or locks) and sliding Perspex windows, steel wheels and a very basic hood frame. Options included a heater, luggage rack and a radio, though the latter was very expensive and rarely specified. The purest Midget is sought after

by collectors today, as it was only produced for 16 months. In October 1962, the engine was increased to 1,098cc, lifting the power output to 56bhp and increasing torque slightly to 62 lb ft. To cope with the extra power, the front drum brakes were replaced with discs, while 13-inch wire wheels were offered as a factory option, such was the trend of the time. A total of 25,681 Mk 1 Midgets were produced, of which 9,601 had the 1,098cc engine. MGE MAY 2022 41

MG Midget Mk 1-4 Mk 2 (1964-66)

The Mk 2 appeared in 1965 and represented a step forward, with the main external changes being to the doors, which acquired wind-up windows, swivelling quarter lights, external handles, and separate locks. The windscreen frame was strengthened and the glass curved for safety, and a beefier roof frame was introduced to give the car more allweather capability. Inside, the cabin was made more comfortable, with a revised dash and better instrumentation, though it was still a fairly basic car, such was its appeal. There was also a big change underneath, with the rear end redesigned to accommodate semielliptic rather than quarter-elliptic leaf springs, the net result being a more pliable ride and more predictable handling from the live axle rear. Mk2s also got engine revisions, with a new three-branch manifold, larger inlet valves and improved porting, strengthened main bearings and a power increase to 59bhp. A total of 26,601 Mk2s were made in a production run spanning 18 months.

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MGE MAY 2022 43

MG Midget Mk 1-4 Midget Mk 3 (1966-74)

With the A-Series engine undergoing significant development, BMC had increased the capacity to 1,275cc for the Mini Cooper – a car that was thriving in competition and was proving just how flexible and versatile the A-Series powerplant was. The Midget was given the new engine in 1966 with the launch of the thirdgeneration of the model and fourth-gen Austin-Healey Sprite. But BMC kept a little something back, and rather than the 75bhp ‘full-fat’ 1,275cc engine used in the Cooper, the Midget had a 65bhp derivative with a reduced compression ratio. The Midget used the 12G940 cylinder head casting that was common to other BMC 1300 cars, whereas the Cooper 'S' had a special head with not only larger inlet, but also larger exhaust valves. The detuned engine was used for reasons of model range placement – with the Cooper 'S' spec engine, the Midget could have been faster than the more expensive MGB. Indeed, many owners went on to make them such. As well as the larger engine, the car got revised clutch and brake hydraulics with a separate master cylinder fitted for the clutch. Other changes included a permanently attached roof – a switch from the folddown or removable canvas top from the Mk 2. It was a lot prettier with the roof up, too, answering criticisms of the upright ‘top hat’ appearance of the Mk 2’s hood. A raft of changes was introduced for US-market cars in 1967 that were later introduced on UK and European models as part of a rationalisation programme.

44 MGE MAY 2022

These included a padded dashboard rail and a collapsible steering column, along with revised, smaller dials to fit inside the thicker dash frame. From late 1968, the rear axle ratio was revised to give more refined cruising and better fuel economy, though no Midget was ever thirsty and all are capable of over 40mpg even if driven spiritedly. In late 1969 ahead of the 1970 Model Year, the Midget was revised further and acquired a recessed black radiator grille and black-painted sills, along with corporate ‘British Leyland’ badges following the merger of BMC with Leyland the previous year. The rear taillight design was also modified to match the look of the MGB and the choice of steel or wire wheels were replaced by one design – the famous Rubery Owen ‘Rostyle’ sports wheel.

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Wire-spoked wheels were soon reintroduced as an option due to high buyer demand. The first few 1970 Midgets also had a matt black windscreen surround, though this was quickly shunned by buyers and the bright finish made a comeback after just a few short months, making these early 1970 MY cars quite sought-after as MG rarities. Meanwhile, the BMC-Leyland merger brought to an end the relationship between the larger company and the Healey Motor Company, which left its long-standing relationship with BMC to form an alliance with the Jensen Motor Company – which tried (and ultimately failed) to take on the MGB with the illfated Jensen-Healey. The Austin-Healey Sprite, then, disappeared but by now the Midget had become by far the more popular model, outselling the Sprite by a ratio of 10 to one. The final big change for the Mk 3 came in 1972, when the body was revised and the squared-off rear wheel arches were replaced by round ones, which allowed the fitment of fatter tyres and made the Midget more popular in competition. The round-wheel-arch or RWA cars also gained a lower-geared steering rack from the Triumph Spitfire, www.mgenthusiast.com

a benefit of the British Leyland tieup. From 1973 onwards, the original dynamo charging system was replaced with a Lucas alternator, a much better system and a common retro fit modification. The final change came in 1974, with overriders fitted to the front bumpers to meet new US impact regulations. Unsurprisingly, given its longer production run, the Mk 3 was the bestselling Midget of the lot, with 100,256 being produced over eight years. MGE MAY 2022 45

MG Midget Mk 1-4 Midget 1500 (unofficially, Mk 4) (1974–80)

The strongest visual change to the Midget occurred in 1974 when changes were mandated if MG was to continue selling cars in the USA. To meet stringent regulations set put by the National Traffic Safety Association (NTSA) , the delicate chrome bumpers and grille of the original Midget were replaced with a single piece polyurethane ‘beak’, while the ride height of the car also had to be raised in accordance with lighting regulations that dictated the lenses must be a certain height from the ground. To cope with the increased centre of gravity caused by the additional ride height, the Midget also gained anti-roll bars to keep its topsy-turvy new self in check. A matching black plastic bumper was added to the rear of the car, and the square wheelarches made a return to try and disguise the extra height of the car at the back. The overall look was quite significantly different to the essence of the original Midget. But the changes didn’t just end there. As well as the visual and suspension modifications, the entire drivetrain of the Midget was revised and the original A-Series engine replaced by the 1,493cc Triumph engine as found in the Spitfire and Dolomite, attached to a modified Morris Marina gearbox. It was British Leyland parts bin engineering at its finest. The increased displacement of the new engine meant it could be detuned to match Federal emissions restrictions. US market cars were strangled by a single carburettor, air pumps, EGR valves and catalytic converters and could barely muster 50bhp, but in the UK the Triumph engine brought some benefits, notably a 0-60 time of below 12 seconds and a top speed in excess of 100mph, as UK cars ran the engine in standard 65bhp tune with twin carbs. The last Midget 1500 was made on December 7, 1979, after 73,899 of the model had been made. The last 500 British-market cars were painted black. However, despite the end of production being late 1979, a few Midgets remained unsold in dealerships as late as 1981, with the model unable to hide its age. A design of over 20 years old in a rapidly evolving car market was by now sadly pout of its depth, and it was only a love of the MG brand among the British and American car-loving public that sustained it for so long. 46 MGE MAY 2022

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MGE MAY 2022 47

MG Midget Mk 1-4 Key buying checkpoints

Corrosion and body condition are the main things to check for as most mechanical faults are easy to sort. Key areas to check are: ■ Rear spring mountings - early cars with quarter elliptic springs are more vulnerable to corrosion as all the stress of the mounting is taken up in one area at each side of the car, but spring mount areas on later cars can also be weak. Make sure you inspect the underside thoroughly. ■ Rear wings and inner arches – these are quite often rusted away, pay particular attention to the area behind

the back of the rear wing where it is a double skin and meets the boot floor. Also check the boot floor itself. ■ Sills – there’s a very good chance these have been replaced at some point. Look for misalignment and bad door fit as a sign to whether or not they have been done properly. As an open top car, the sills are a very important part of the body structure. Any signs of bodged repairs or patching up isn’t good news. ■ Bonnet - due to its design and the way it is held open, the whole assembly flexes, which causes stress in the front of the bonnet, the end of the bonnet therefore tends to rot. The lower front panel is also prone to corrosion along

with the lower parts of the wings. ■ A-pillars – there very susceptible to rust, as they are a water trap. And if corrosion gets a grip here, then any repairs are likely to be very involved and rather expensive! ■ Engines – there’s little of concern here other than general inspection, whether it’s the A-Series or the Triumph engine. Both are tough and dependable but will require occasional overhauls. Listen for timing chain rattle and look for excessive smoke, but don’t discount a car that needs mechanical work if the body is good. It’ll be far less expensive to get the engine fixed up.

Check the lower panel on the front below the radiator grille

Central floor normally holds up well due to oil leaks provding protection!

Rear spring mounting areas are prone to corrosion and are safety critical

Rust can also eat its way through the lower part of rear wings

Lower wings and leading edge of sills are common rot traps

Be sure to check the sills along their entire length

Mechanically, a Midget should throw up very few major problems

Rear wings can also corrode around arches, an indicator of worse below

The leading edge of the bonnet is a common place to find bubbling

48 MGE MAY 2022

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MG Midget Mk 1-4

Which one is best?

There are reasons to like all four generations of MG Midget. With the earlier cars, it's the simplicity and design purity that stand out, and a Mk 1 will always be collectible as it's the most original and least diluted of the breed. At the opposite end of the scale, the 1500s are still extremely popular, partly because they are fun and easy to improve, and also because they remain the most accessible Midgets in terms of price point. As a first-time classic car, they’re a very popular choice and for a thoroughly good reason. Mk 2s make a lovely choice of classic car because they retain the simplistic nature of the Mk 1, but are just that tiny bit more usable thanks to the addition of wind-down windows and door locks, as well as that all-important weatherproof roof. But the real star of the Midget line-up has to be the Mk 3. The combination of the improved cabin, uprated handling and 1,275cc engine make it not only the most usable of Midgets but also the easiest to tune, whilst there’s also a strong argument that the looks of the round wheel arch models are slightly more appealing. Of all of the Midgets, it's the one that's got the lot. www.mgenthusiast.com

There isn't a Midget that's a bad choice in terms of being fun to own or easy to look after, but the Mk 3 is our pick of the bunch.

can double it for a good one. Really good examples are starting to command proper money these days and even a 1500 will get £7,000 if properly presented to the market, while a great example of a Mk 2 or Mk 3, which tend Price guide Prices for Midgets are all over the place, to command similar values across the but it remains one of the most affordable board, will be £10,000-plus. Mk 1s are ways into classic MG ownership with the valued similar to 2s and 3s but attract entry level price for a project 1500 being more of a collectors’ market than a users’ one. For a concours Midget, you’ll around the £1,500 mark – with basket need at least £15,000 for a full-on high cases being even cheaper. end show car. For something you can use, though, It’s a big change from just four or five 1500s are available from around £3,000 years ago when values were half that, upwards, £4,000 being the start point but the Midget’s popularity is on the for a workable Mk 2 or 3. Mk 1s, albeit rise, helped no doubt by the amazing the least practical and usable Midget derivatives, are more collectable thanks parts availability, ease of ownership and terrific club support there is for to their purity and rarity so bank on the model. £5,500 upwards for a runner, and you

Useful contacts

■ Mike Authers, MG Midget specialist – www.mgmidgets.com ■ MGOC Spares – www.mgocspares.co.uk ■ Brown and Gammons – www.ukmgparts.com ■ Moss Europe – www.moss-europe.co.uk ■ Rimmer Brothers – www.rimmerbros.com ■ Sussex Classic Parts – www.sussexclassiccar.co.uk ■ MG Owners Club – www.mgoc.co.uk ■ MG Car Club – www.mgcc.co.uk ■ Midget and Sprite Club – www.midgetandspriteclub.com MGE MAY 2022 49

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Taking charge?

Vital Spark MGB GT

When Gary White and Rebecca Denyer couldn’t find a company to build them an electric MGB, they decided to make their own… Could EV conversions be the future of classic cars? WORDS AND PHOTOS: STEVE HOLE

52 MGE MAY 2022

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Vital Spark MGB GT

Gary White and Rebecca Denyyer

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he MGB GT you see here looks very tasteful; a 1981 Old English White example that has been sympathetically rebuilt and had its rubber bumpers replaced with chrome. Under the bonnet, though, the B-Series engine has been replaced by electric power. It is a reversible modification that offers an exhaust emission-free option for those looking to reduce their overall environmental impact. The people behind it, Gary White and Rebecca Denyer, have since set up their own company, Vital Spark, so that other enthusiasts can make the switch to EV if they so choose. Vital Spark is located on a business park on the remains of the old Long Marston (latterly Shakespeare County) drag racing venue in Warwickshire. Both Gary and Debbie realise that there will be a good proportion of MG Enthusiast readers who will find the prospect of a lovely B with electric power abhorrent. They are realists as well as passionate classic car enthusiasts. They are also fans of electric cars and wanted to combine their leisure motoring with modern technology. Gary has already done this via his daily driver, a Porsche Taycan, but wanted to electrify their classic as well. Because Gary and Rebecca couldn’t find what they were looking for elsewhere, they decided to create it themselves. About two years ago they approached an existing electric car conversion company, wanting to convert their MGB GT to electric power. They were quite surprised at the bottom-line figure on the quote they received for the work, the lead time before the project could be started and the length of the project itself. They decided that they could probably do it themselves. Gary and Rebecca don’t do things by halves and realised that such a conversion isn’t as straightforward as a clutch change on a B-series so they set off on a near-vertical learning curve. “There are plenty of companies concentrating on the classic Mini but, as we discovered, not so many dealing with the MGB GT and Roadster,” said Gary. With so many MGs still around, and a whole tranche of the classic car market centred on them, Gary suspected that interest levels in what they are offering would polarise opinion. “At shows we get people shouting at us for what they see as ruining an MGB,” he says. However, Rebecca adds: “That’s fair enough but the positive comments and genuine number of enquiries we’ve had MGE MAY 2022 53

THE ELECTRIC MOTOR SITS LOW AND THE REALLY CLEVER ELEMENT HERE IS THAT VITAL SPARK’S ENGINEERS HAVE MANAGED TO LINK THE MOTOR TO THE MGB’S STANDARD GEARBOX...

thus far is overwhelmingly supportive.” Apart from cosmetic work, the Vital Spark team, completed by Electromechanical Engineer Paul Wawiorko, his assistant Artur Chodorowski and Business Development Manager, Sean White, have been responsible for all the work on the MGB GT you see here. “As time moves forward it will become increasingly difficult to keep classic cars on the road,” says Gary. “Added to this, after becoming more aware of the negative impact fossil fuels are having on the planet, we wanted to change this passion for good. “While the future for modern cars is electric, we believe that by converting 54 MGE MAY 2022

and maintaining our heritage classics we will be using less of our earth's precious natural resources and leave less damage too, while preserving our heritage for future generations.” So, how do you buy an electric MG from Vital Spark or at least convert your own car? Well, it’s quite simple. You can choose one of their DIY kit packages or they will convert your car for you. There are caveats and a few hurdles to clear before your order is signed off, however. It’s not quite as easy as going to a classic car sales specialist and driving off in a car out of their showroom. To become a Vital Spark customer for the DIY option the car you are intending to convert has to be a sound example.

They need to see it physically, or virtually, before any transaction takes place. Gary says: “It’s pointless using a rusty or mechanically duff donor vehicle.” There are also potential warranty issues and registration implications involved. With that in mind they also need to see the completed car, if you have gone the DIY route, and will check it all over for you. As long as all is in order, they’ll issue you with a completion certificate. The reason for this diligence is to help with re-registering your vehicle. It will be classed in the UK as a Radically Altered Vehicle, a category that DVLA and some kit car builders are familiar with and, if not careful, can fall foul of. When embarking on a radically altered www.mgenthusiast.com

Vital Spark MGB GT

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MGE MAY 2022 55

SURE, AT SHOWS WE GET PEOPLE SHOUTING AT US FOR WHAT THEY SEE AS RUINING AN MGB...

project, you need plenty of photographic evidence for DVLA: pictures of the car before, after and during the process. They may even request an inspection. As long as you have done it right and met the criteria there is nothing to worry about. Vital Spark is also understandably wary about the more curious customer tampering with their electric motors and battery kits. We’re talking serious voltages here that require specialist knowledge and tools so, if the unwary went poking a screwdriver into the wrong place, or were left to their own devices, it could prove to be fatal. Therefore, all packages are firmly sealed and are a ‘plug-and-play’ fitment. A DIY conversion kit costs £34,438 inclusive of VAT and gives you everything you need to convert your MGB or GT. For an additional £4,800 Vital Spark will fit the conversion for you so it’s fair to say than an EV MGB isn’t cheap. From the outset, Vital Spark always 56 MGE MAY 2022

wanted its factory-converted cars to remain sympathetic to the originals. As you can see here, for all intents and purposes, the white MGB GT looks stock until you delve deeper. There are no body amendments or appendages, no chassis modifications. The interiors remain as original as possible. The powertrain is the obvious difference (but should you desire, it can always be changed back). Other running gear, such as brakes and suspension are as original, although if you want to up the power (all possible just by plugging in a lap-top) you will need to upgrade major components. Electric motors deliver comparatively colossal, and instant, torque and the MGB was designed several decades ago. So what’s the Vital Spark like? The first clue that everything is not as it seems is when you lift the bonnet. Gone is the familiar looking B-Series, replaced by what looks like the insides of a fridge or a freezer. The electric ‘engine’ sits where

the B-series sat, picking up on the original engine mounting points. The motor is a 110v, 80kW [approx. 107.3bhp] unit supplied by Netgain, a company set up to serve the aftermarket electric conversion movement. There are ten sealed battery units mounted under the floor: six at the front, four at the rear, all monitored by a Battery Management System (BMS). The units on this white B GT were sourced from Jaguar Land Rover and hail from their I-Pace R&D test cars. The BMS basically does the job of an ECU, or engine control unit, fitted to a petrol or diesel engine that, among other things, prevents an engine from overfuelling. In this context, the BMU prevents an electric car from over-charging. Sitting next to the BMU is the motor controller and also a charger for the car’s 12v battery, which controls the auxiliaries such as lighting, air-conditioning and radio, as on a ‘conventional’ car. The electric motor sits low and the www.mgenthusiast.com

Vital Spark MGB GT

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MGE MAY 2022 57

Vital Spark MGB GT

Battery pack system is stored in the boot with charging socket where the exhuast pipe would emerge on a standard MGB GT 58 MGE MAY 2022

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TO BECOME A VITAL SPARK CUSTOMER FOR THE DIY OPTION, THE CAR YOU ARE INTENDING TO CONVERT HAS TO BE A SOUND EXAMPLE.

clever element here is that Vital Spark’s engineers have managed to link the motor to the MGB’s standard gearbox, via a bespoke, fabricated adapter plate. It still has a manual gearshift, unlike an ordinary EV, though it only works in third and fourth gear as there is sufficient torque to make the lower two ratios irrelevant. At the rear is the charger which, on this car, sits in the boot (it replaces the fuel tank on Roadster versions). Vital Spark has installed a data port which facilitates software updates and diagnostics should a fault develop. In place of the exhaust tailpipe is a Type 2 charger. You can charge up via a domestic plug (3.5kw), which takes seven hours for a full charge. Overall electric range is about 120 miles. There’s nothing alien or out of place here. The car will feel familiar to any MGB GT owner, as will the controls, other than the rev. counter which has been replaced by a power meter. Starting the car has safety procedures built-in. You turn the ignition key, at which point a signal is sent to the BMS and motor. You then press the ‘start’ button on the dash, wait for a tell-tale ‘click’ and then engage ‘D’ (for drive). Gently prod www.mgenthusiast.com

the accelerator and off you go. If you are an EV newbie it’ll take a few miles to get used to the noise: silence. Apart, that is, from road and tyre noise. It drives and handles much like a normal B GT, as it weighs just 12kg more than the petrol original. You ignore the first two gears. Simply engage third and let the torque do the work. Once up to speed you can choose to select fourth, if you wish, but you can leave it in third quite happily. It depends on road conditions and what you want to do with the car. Vital Spark has capped power from the battery to 80Kw (about 65% of its overall capability) and it feels perfectly adequate for road use. For those of us used to how an MGB behaves, how it accelerates and sounds, this car messes with the senses. It feels like an MGB, albeit a silent one, yet accelerates like a very fast sports car. 0-60mph is despatched in fewer than seven seconds and the top speed is limited to 90mph. Yet progress can also be as sedate as you like. Vital Spark’s demonstrator is also fitted with a Hoyle Engineering front suspension upgrade, which helps match the handling to the performance potential the car now has. For those who want to

take the conversion further, the battery’s output can be increased easily, via a laptop computer, and the BMS remapped. A clever touch is the battery regeneration switch on the dash. Position ‘0’ turns it off. Engaging ‘I’ or ‘II’ allows the battery to recharge itself under regenerative braking, a feature found on modern EVs such as the Nissan LEAF and MG ZS EV. Admittedly, a conversion such as this won’t be to everyone’s tastes, and it’s far from a conventional take on the MGB, but the package is certainly well executed. With technology evolving all the time, prices, like those of the ubiquitous colour TV, will eventually come down (batteries have come down in price by 85% in a decade, for example). For now it remains a pricey alternative to a normal MGB or B GT.

Contact

● Vital Spark, Unit 2, Bird Industrial Park, Station Road, Long Marston, Warwickshire CV37 8RP ● Email: hello@vital-spark.io ● Website: www.vital-spark.io MGE MAY 2022 59

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Skye’s the limit MG ZS Road Trip

The Isle of Skye is a great summer touring route for classic MGs but how does a contemporary MG stackup in Scotland’s wintry wilderness? We took a ZS 1.5 Exclusive on one of our favourite driving routes to find out.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHS: CRAIG CHEETHAM

62 MGE MAY 2022

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MGE's editor at Eilean Dornan Castle, across the bridge on the Scottish mainland

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MG ZS Road Trip

kye: Land of the Fairies, the midnight sunset and the home of Talisker whisky. They’re the kind of claims that only a very special part of the world can make. For years, the rocky terrain of the Inner Hebrides has been one of our favourite parts of the British Isles, both for its natural, undeniable beauty, spectral light and also its amazing driving routes. There are few places on Earth where, with each curve in the road, you’re met with another brand-new vista, transforming a lunar landscape into a verdant valley as you leave the rocks behind and climb into the forests, with gorges, natural lochs and rugged coastlines everywhere you look. As natural phenomena go, there really is nowhere like Skye. Thanks to years of investment, a lot of it through EU-sponsored tourism schemes (which may explain the overwhelming desire among Scottish voters to not proceed with Brexit), the roads are terrific too; smooth as glass in many places and with quality signage and lighting that further add to Skye’s driving appeal. Having not visited for a couple of years, a recent trip to the Highlands and the serendipitous coincidence of an MG ZS 1.5 Exclusive hire car from Inverness Airport was enough of an impetus for us to go back there. After all, having driven Skye roof-down in the summer in an MGF just three years ago, it would be good to see it from a different perspective, both in terms of the weather and the MG in which we were travelling. The ZS may not have been quite so exciting but the prospect of far fewer midge bites was also not without appeal… First up, though, is the process of actually getting to Skye. With the airport despatched with relative ease, it’s a two-hour drive from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland’s stepping-stone to the Hebrides. A marvellous drive it is, too, especially if you take the road over Torridon and drop down into Lochcarron. If you’re in no rush, it’s worth making time for. As, indeed, is a pit-stop at the breathtaking Eilean Donan Castle in the village of Dornie, just four miles away from Kyle and with its own striking views across to Skye. There are loos and a coffee shop there but you don’t have to pay the castle entry fee to use them. It’s a worthwhile waypoint on any road trip that’s about to take you into the wilderness. You cross over from Kyle of Lochalsh into Skye via the Skye Bridge, which opened in 1995 and was originally a toll bridge to replace the Skye Ferry; a MGE MAY 2022 63

Portree Harbour in the island's capital, your kids will think it's Balamory

crossing that, in peak tourist seasons, would see delays of up to six hours. The bridge opened in 1995 and was the subject of some controversy, as the £5.70 fee to traverse just 500 metres made it one of the most expensive toll bridges in the UK. It was challenged by locals, some of whom had lost their homes as a result of compulsory purchase orders and, in 2004, was bought from the operators by the Scottish Government. A subsequent investigation discovered that the bridge had raised over £33m in revenue from 1995 to 2004, against operating costs of 64 MGE MAY 2022

£3.5m including staffing costs. It seems that the Skye Bridge made some people rather a lot of money… Luckily, it doesn’t cost a bean to traverse today and that’s great news if you’re on the mainland and love a curry; one of the first buildings you come to on the island is the Taste of India in Kyleakin. It’s not Skye’s most aesthetic tourist attraction by a long shot but, as a multiple award-winning curry house twice voted Scotland’s best, it’s one that’s well worth making an effort for. We know, as we have done on several

occasions. “Go to Skye for a curry” should be in the tourist brochures. Something else that ought to make the brochures, but doesn’t, is the second-hand, craft and antique village at Broadford, the first major settlement you come to as you head towards the island’s capital of Portree. If you like a rummage, it’s next to the Co-op and alongside the beach. Carry on through Broadford and you drop down past Sconser, where a daytrip to the Isle of Raasay is an option if you’re not in a rush, and the road takes www.mgenthusiast.com

MG ZS Road Trip

Cabin layout and quality is now easily on a par with rival models from Europe and Japan - SAIC is a fast learner!

you along the Sliagachan Cove, with amazing mountainous views either side as you cut through the valley. It’s here, too, that we really start to miss the MGF. The ZS is a comfortable enough companion and a refined and pleasant vehicle in which to spend time. The 1.5-litre, turbocharged, petrol engine struggles with the steep incline out of the cove and becomes thrashy and a little tiresome, while the fuel economy drops considerably when it’s worked hard. As MG Rover fans of many years standing, we can’t help but think the K-series, www.mgenthusiast.com

1.5-litre petrol engine is the ZS's weak spot - it's neither fast nor fuel efficient classic tour in a more vintage MG model, despite being over 30 years old, would it’s a relevant and valuable point. have made much lighter (and more From Portree you can take two loop efficient) work of things as we ascend roads. The North-East one takes you out from the valley. Twenty minutes later, we’re in Portree to Uig and round the island’s Northern Peninsula, while the North-West route and we’re giving the ZS a well-earned takes you across to Dunvegan and the break. Well, that’s our excuse anyway. island’s western Miniginish Peninsula, A lunch stop at the Granary Café, in Somerled Square, is hugely welcome and dropping you back to Sliagachan. With limited time, we chose the latter heartily recommended, not least because and looped up through Skye’s northern there’s plenty of secure parking in the main square right outside. Not something wilderness, a landscape in which traffic that bothers us too much in the hired ZS is very light, population is lighter still but, should we ever come back here on a and you can truly appreciate the island’s MGE MAY 2022 65

MG ZS Road Trip The Talisker Distillery - well worth a visit

If you like to try regional ales and spritis (after your road trip!) then The Misty Bottle is a must-visit

incredible natural light forms, even in stormy weather. Wildlife is abundant. Highland cows, deer and red squirrels are common but beware, as they lack road sense. The last thing you want to do is to kill wildlife, damage your classic MG or (arguably worse) incur the wrath of a hire car company. If you have time, then Dunvegan Castle 66 MGE MAY 2022

is a great waypoint. Much newer than many of Scotland’s fortifications, it has no less of an interesting history having been the home of the MacLeod clan since the 18th century. It’s walled gardens, built up over 300 years and still expanding, are well worth a visit. From Dunvegan, the road drops steeply along Skye’s western cliffs.

Caution is advised but the views are immense and, as you descend to the island’s western reaches, you need to take a pit-stop at the village of Carbost. It is the largest settlement on the Minginish peninsula and home to the world-famous Talisker Distillery. Tours are available and there’s a well-stocked gift shop, both of which we’d highly recommend. www.mgenthusiast.com

MG ZS Road Trip From Carbost, you drop down into Sliagachan on far better roads designed, no doubt, to accommodate the distillery tankers. Turn right before the main road intersection and you can take a quick diversion to see the Fairy Pools. It’s well worth it as the pools descend in layers from the top of the Cuillin Hills, with an almost unworldly appearance and clear blue waters, made bluer by their natural mineral content. Sadly, by the time we got there, the weather had turned very Scottish indeed and the allure of the Taste of India was too great to risk the horizontal rain and 80mph winds. We did find time to make one last pit stop at The Misty Bottle, between Broadford and Kyle, a roadside offlicence specialising in beers, smallbatch

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whiskies and spirits made on the Scottish Islands. Obviously, the desire was to support local small businesses, though Skye Red Ale comes highly recommended... only when you’ve finished your driving, of course. As for the MG? Well, the ZS certainly shows how far MG has come under SAIC ownership and, compared to the early MG 6 and 3 models, it’s a sizeable leap forward. However, there were a few things we weren’t impressed with. Overall fuel economy over 240 miles of just 31mpg wasn’t much to

write home about, given its rather staid performance, and it’s a car you have to work hard if you want to get the best out of it. It’s a very comfortable car, though, and the handling is exceptionally agile in the truest MG tradition, despite its SUV appearance. It’s a seven-out-of-ten car and, dare we say it, works better with a fully-electric drivetrain. Skye, however, remains a resolute tenout-of-ten. If you haven’t been, load up your MG and make the effort. It’s a road trip you’ll never forget.

MGE MAY 2022 67

K Series Engine, MG SV and ZT 260 Specialist Unit 1 Clifton Mills Birkby Lane Brighouse HD6 4JJ

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THE RPS MGB RANGE

RPS 251 full front end VeeBee wings MGB Rubber Bumper Conversion Kit MGB Bolt-on Sebring-Style Valance Kit

1973 MGB Roadster. Flame red, it has been a well-loved car by the last owner for many years. The Roadster was imported from California in 2006 and converted to r/h/d.It has a nice black leather trim. minilites with diamond cut rims and new tyres. £12,995

1973 MGB Roadster. This absolutely beautiful 1973 Bronze Yellow MGB Roadster. The MGB has only had 1 owner since new. There is a large amount of history with the car, including receipts dating right back to 1988 as well as the original catalogues. £29,995

1979 MGB Roadster Rare Snappdragon Yellow, black trim. Genuine 45,400 from new, 2 owners, has been restored by previous owner. Super inside and out, new trim, hood etc, resprayed. Superb late MGB with excellent history ﬁle. £11,995

1952 MG TD This beautiful example of a 1952 MG TD. It has been recently restored by MG Mecca Limited, after a stalled renovation starting in 1994! Absolutely superb red leather trim, with an immaculate exterior painted in a gorgeous Reno red. £29,995

1938 MG TA, Blue, tan trim. Totally restored TA immaculate 1959 MGA, Iris Blue, blue leather trim, blue weather gear, in every way everything has been renovated, replaced wire wheels. Totally restored last nut & bolt, no expense or reconditioned, restored over several years, no expense spared rebuild. The registration is really 59 MGA! spared. Totally superb car. Can’t imagine how much this This car is immaculate and a rare ﬁnd in this condition has cost. £42,795 and spec. £47,995

Please contact us for more information: Tel: 01953 717100 Email: russell@moderngarageclassics.co.uk www.moderngarageclassics.co.uk

68 MGEMAY2022

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1958 Austin Healey MK1 Frogeye Sprite

Very early car with many rare features, it has just been through our workshops and had a bare metal re-spray with photographic record, ﬁnished in Cherry Red. It comes with an Unleaded head, detailed engine bay, excellent panel gaps, re-con early windscreen frame, new side screens and hood, full tonneau, black interior with red piping on the seats, wood rim Motolita steering wheel. Superb example and interesting number plate.

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MGB GT, 1972

In Glacier white. Tax and MOT exempt, 1860cc unleaded fast road engine with 5 speed gearbox. e car comes with 15in Minilite style alloy wheels, parabolic rear springs with telescopic shock absorbers, Navy interior, Revotec fan, 123 Ignition, K & N Filters and Motolita wood rim steering wheel. e car has excellent paint work and is structurally and mechanically sound with good chrome and drives beautifully.

Honda CB400/4 F1 Supersport,1975 in Red. e present owner has had the bike since 2017 and prior to this it was fully restored. It comes with some history and old MOTs. e motorcycle has only done approx.1500mls since and is still in a stunning condition.

£6,995

Unit 3 Park Venture Centre, Park Street, Bridgtown, Staﬀordshire, WS11 0BT www.pauldeppermgs.com | 01543 570251 | info@pauldeppermgs.com

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MGEMAY2022 69

BANKING ON IT...

ARCHIVE

ABOVE: R.R.Jackson, racing engineer, warming up Georgr Harvey Noble's Q-type MG 1937.

ABOVE: Aerial View 1939. ABOVE: The MG Challenge trophy.

MG at Brooklands

Year Details 1925 Two 1st Class awards from seam to seam on Brooklands’ unforgiving concrete surface. 1926 1st Class award A complementary model to the Q was 1929 Five 1st Class awards the novel R-type. Powered by a similarly1929 Five 1st Class awards tuned engine, this version boasted a 1930 Team prize prototype independent rear suspension. Sadly, however, lack of time precluded 1931 1,2,3,4,5, Team Prize this car from being fully developed before 1931 3rd (1st in Class), Team Prize MG’s racing department was closed. 1932 3rd Finally, in 1936, the first of the celebrated T-type models, the TA, was introduced, 1932 1st and 1,2,3 in Class, Team Prize based on the newly released Morris Ten, 1933 2,3,4 (1,2,3 in Class) a line which would continue until the 1933 3rd outbreak of war in 1939. 1933 1st In the background during the mid 1930s things were far from well at MG. 1933 1st William Morris was never a supporter 1933 1st,2nd of competition, considering it to be an 1934 1st in Class expensive and frivolous waste of effort 1934 1st, Team Prize and funds. In 1935 he arranged for MG to become part of the Nuffield Empire; 1934 3rd all competition activity was stopped and 1934 3rd (1st in Class) a major rationalisation programme at 1935 3rd (1st in Class), Team Prize Abingdon saw key staff members moved elsewhere. All Works links between 1935 4th (1st in Class) the factory and Brooklands stopped 1935 5th (1st in Class) at a stroke. If there was a benefit to 1936 Two Class wins this change it was a commonisation 1937 3rd (1st in Class) of components across MG and Morris models, reducing costs and improving 1938 4th reliability, while privateers continued in Class win competition at places like Brooklands until 1938 1938 Class win the outbreak of hostilities when, sadly, the track was closed for good. [List reproduced from MG by McComb] www.mgenthusiast.com

Event MCC High Speed Trial MCC High Speed Trial JCC High Speed Trial MCC High Speed Trial Double-Twelve Race Double Twelve Race 500 Miles Race 1000 Miles Race 500 Miles Race International Trophy Race British Empire Trophy Race India Trophy Race Relay Race 500 Miles Race International Trophy Race British Empire Trophy Race Relay Race 500 Miles Race International Trophy Race British Empire Trophy Race 500 Miles Race 500 Miles Race International Trophy Race International Trophy Race 200 Miles Race British Empire Trophy Race MGE MAY 2022 75

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MGEMAY2022 77

TECHNICAL Q&A Have you got a technical problem with your MG? If so, the combined expertise of Roger Parker and the MGOC Workshop may be able to help. For details of how to access this free service, see p81.

MOT EXEMPTION AND HISTORIC TAX

With the final MGBs passing the 40-year landmark this year, Roger Parker from the MG Owners Club looks at the ins and outs of UK VED and MOT exemption MOT exemption is automatic and is a status that applies to all cars that are over 40 years of age that have not been significantly changed (so that means almost all cars). The only owner (keeper) aspect of the MOT exemption is whether to have what is now a voluntary MOT and, if you do, then all the aspects that are applicable to the MOT apply. This means that, even though the car is exempt, if it fails the test then you have to follow the rules that apply in terms of repairs and re-testing until it passes. Then that MOT is valid until its expiry date and afterwards the owner’s decision once again needs to be made whether or not to have another voluntary MOT. There is no MOT exemption 78 MGE MAY 2022

registration or other aspects for owners to complete or follow. Only when the car’s tax is due is there any owner involvement with MOT exemption. If the car has a current MOT for at least the first day of the new taxation period then this overrides the exemption. However, if the last MOT has expired before the first day of the new taxation period then usually the on-line system assumes the MOT exemption is being used by the owner and there is nothing for the owner to do. Formerly there was a need for the owner to tick a box in the on-line tax application to confirm that you are using the MOT exemption before the application continued. If you tax at a Post Office you have DVLA form V112 is needed to declare to obtain and fill in a form V112, with MOT exemption - it's not automatic www.mgenthusiast.com

TECHNICAL Q&A ar’s insurance ed digitally ate of insurance and ation and avoid e a second visit. Note that xemption you If your application involves a Heritage ate to prove the car’s build date, ation doesn’t ation, then the ation will have to be direct to VLA. Following this route you would

category ‘R’ applying. Interestingly, feedback indicates that the form will be viewed by the counter clerk and usually given back to you, but that may have changed like the on-line application, which originally had the ‘tick in the box’ for MOT exemption, that has been dropped now, but complete and take a V112 to cover all aspects. Historic tax is completely separate to MOT exemption and you can have MOT exemption but still pay duty. Moving to the Historic tax class is not automatic but has to be specifically applied for by the vehicle keeper. Historic tax can only be applied for from 1st April in the year following the year that the car becomes 40. This is why I simply say that Historic tax class can only be applied for from 1st April of the car’s 41st year. In simple terms a car registered during 1981 will become eligible to be reclassified into the Historic tax class from 1st April 2022. One caveat with any car registered early in 1981 is that it may well have been manufactured during 1980 (such as many late MGBs) and with an appropriate Heritage Certificate to

, ev prove the build date in 1980 brings forward the qualifying date by 12 months. Of course all MGBs were made before the end of October 1980, so irrespective of any later 1980’s first registration dates, they all qualify to be moved to the Historic tax class. Changing to the Historic tax class can be as simple as going to your local tax issuing Post Office with your tax renewal V11 form, or making a full application using the standard V10 form with 'Historic' written in the Taxation class window, the 12 month box ticked and the start date will always be the 1st of a month, either the one just gone or the one approaching (subject to the usual rules). You also need to write Historic in the blue changes section on page 2 of the V5C Registration Certificate, sign and date the change and take the V5C with you to the Post Office as they will retain this and forward it to DVLA once they have completed the application process. (A new V5C will follow in the post showing the new taxation class on page 2.) As the duty rate for the Historic

ax Application Form. Where ar has a current MOT, valid for at least the first day of the new taxation period, both this and valid insurance will be checked digitally. If there is no current MOT, and you are using the MOT exemption, then a completed V112 has to be included. I also suggest that a covering letter be added stating that the car’s registration date doesn’t qualify for the Historic classification but that the enclosed (original, not copy) Heritage Certificate shows the car’s build date does qualify and you are requesting the vehicle be reclassified into the Historic tax class and be issued with a new V5C. The Heritage Certificate will be returned by DVLA but, for those who want to keep the Certificate in its flat, pristine condition, please note that DVLA will return it folded in a smaller envelope to reduce postal costs. Forms V10 and V112 are available on-line, and can be downloaded and printed off, or visit a local tax issuing Post Office for a copy. Heritage Certificates are supplied by the British Motor Museum Archive Dept. and you can find more information at: https:// www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/ archive/heritage-certificates

The MG Enthusiast Helpline is brought to you by Roger Parker and the technical team at the MGOC workshop, who kindly provide the expertise to solve your problems. So, if you are having trouble with your MG and need some help, please send full details and photos, if possible, to: MG Enthusiast, Kelsey Media, The Granary, Downs Court, Yalding Hill, Yalding, Kent, ME18 6AL, UK or email: mg.ed@kesley.co.uk We will reply to all queries as quickly as possible but some questions may require research so please allow up to 28 days. Please note that this is a free service. Some complex questions may require more time than we can reasonably allow, in which case we will let you know. Neither MG Enthusiast nor the MGOC can accept liability for loss, damage or injury resulting from replies to readers’ queries.

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MGE MAY 2022 79

Seizing the initiative H

aving finally made the decision that I was brave enough to take on this project with the assistance of my friend Roger Derrick, as described in the October 2021 issue, the next step was to see if we had a viable engine. I had previously stripped the carburettors and most other ancillaries from the engine before we had removed it from the car, separately from the gearbox and overdrive unit, so that it could be mounted on a mobile engine stand. As the engine had refused to crank over when still in the car, our first move was to see if we could free it now that we had access to both ends of the

crank. Unfortunately, despite squirting copious amounts of release oil through the spark plug holes, leaving it for a while and then both of us trying to turn the crank from the pulley and flywheel ends simultaneously, there was still no discernible movement. We always intended fully to strip the engine but, with it now appearing to be seized, it was with some trepidation that I dismantled the rocker assembly and removed the head. The head came off fairly easily although, to my knowledge, it had never been removed before. Leaded petrol was still widely available when the engine last ran so the head was now put to one side to be exchanged for

The original service book was an interesting discovery 80 MGE MAY 2022

1971 MGB GT OWNED BY: Richard Colby OWNED SINCE: June 1981 MILEAGE: 110,904

an Oselli lead-free head before the engine is reassembled. The cylinder walls appeared quite rusty in places and the pistons remained stuck fast despite us leaving each cylinder full of oil overnight and then placing a block of wood on each piston top and thumping it hard with a seven-pound lump hammer. Some commentators suggest using a metal bar on the piston instead of a wood block as this provides a more direct shock, but the risk of damaging the piston is clearly greater. I had not budgeted for new pistons as part of what was already becoming an increasingly expensive project and, as the plan was to strip and inspect the whole engine, the next stage involved approaching the problem from the bottom end. Once the big ends were dismantled and the crank could rotate freely, I was finally able to knock the pistons out www.mgenthusiast.com

The pistons remained stuck fast despite filling the cylinders with oil, leaving to soak overnight then thumping with a lump hammer via a timber block

The cylinder head will be exchanged for a new Oselli lead free head for the rebuild

Removal of the head revealed smooth but slightly rusty cylinder linings

The piston rings were hardly visible in the rust and grime and discover the reason for their earlier reluctance to move. All the pistons were caked with accumulated grime and rust and the rings were almost unidentifiable, having been stuck to the cylinder walls for at least 15 years. There was better news: the cylinder linings were undamaged and the crank and main bearings of this original fivebearing-crank ‘18GG’-spec B-series unit, seemed in good condition. In any event, all the bearings will be replaced when the rebuild begins.

The engine block looked better after a clean and can be easily rotated on the engine stand and pedal box. Brake and clutch fluid Now that we had resolved the leaks had severely damaged the pedal seized pistons issue, we left further box top and the adjoining inner front refurbishment of the engine as an indoor wing over the years and sections had project for the winter and made use of to be cut out if they had not previously the remaining dry weekends of 2021 to disintegrated under the force of a stiff work on the rest of the car that was still wire brush. stored under sheeting outside. Removing the front of the pedal box We had previously welded bespoke opened up an unusual view through to repair panels to the tops of the main the engine bay and front suspension that side panels in the engine bay and fitted was quite startling. A reminder of how a new radiator duct panel; the first new close the driver’s feet are to these areas replacement panel to be installed. Our and what a difference a 0.8mm steel attention now turned to the bulkhead

www.mgenthusiast.com

MGE MAY 2022 81

A surprising view from the pedal box prior to installation of the new front panel Getting to grips with the bodywork again

The new black pedal box panel installed (top left of picture) panel and some sound insulation make. Luckily, the central bulkhead was mainly intact and, once the steering column had been removed, we could align and fit a new front pedal box assembly. This essential but complicated new panel tied in to the side of the pedal box and the front of the floor section, as well as providing a fitting point for the accelerator pedal. Despite the vulnerability of the top of the pedal box to deterioration, due to fluid spills, no new replacement panel appeared to be available and we had to fabricate a replacement using the nearside footwell top as a template. 82 MGE MAY 2022

Corrosion and the action of brake and clutch fluid had dissolved the top of the pedal box Further work will be required to complete this task once final alignment checks are made and any adjacent repair panels, including part of the inner wing and a new A-post, are fitted. As I described in my first report on this project, this is very much a labour of love with the primary intention of bringing my long neglected B GT back in to a roadworthy condition. While I can account for its history during the past forty years of my ownership, I had little knowledge of its early years so it was exciting to discover the original service book while removing the driver’s seat to gain better access to the pedal box area. I had originally purchased the MG from a surveyor with whom I was working in Taunton, in 1981, and it

With no replacement panel available a new top for the pedal box had to be fabricated now appears that my ten-year-old BGT had still been very close to home at the time, having been supplied originally by Marshalsea Motors in Taunton. Marshalsea has long since disappeared and was probably replaced by Wadham Stringer as the main BL dealer in Taunton in the late 1970s. The vendor, Osmond’s Car Sales of Curry Rivel, was a coach hire company, as well as offering car sales, and appears to have survived until quite recently. Taking the BGT on a run back to Taunton, and perhaps getting some photos of it at the old Osmond’s site in Curry Rivel, are now on my bucket list. Although at the moment I am not prepared to commit to when that might be achieved. www.mgenthusiast.com

Your round-up of the latest MG Event news Events

MGB Anniversary gets underway at the Paris Retromobile Show MG Club de France stand offered a chance to meet French MG enthusiasts.

Words and photos: Andrew Ralston The announcement that the Paris Retromobile show would return in 2022 was the first intangible proof that the classic car world was at last re-emerging from the restrictions imposed by the Covid 19 pandemic. Arguably the most prestigious event in the European classic calendar, Retromobile 2021 had been postponed from its usual February slot at the Parc des Expositions in Paris until June until the organisers finally bowed to the inevitable and cancelled the event altogether.This year it was back in all its glory, albeit a few weeks later than originally planned. What exactly is Retromobile?It’s a giant classic car show, but one where the cars are exhibited in a style which recalls the glamour of the motor shows that older readers will recall from their youth in the fifties or sixties.Car manufacturers and museums lend exhibits from their historic collections, an unusual contribution this year coming from the Musée de la Gendeamérie Nationale which showed a fascinating selection of vintage French police vehicles.There were also special displays paying homage to the sports and racing cars of Amedeo Gordini (1899-1979), the centenary of the French Amilcar firm and, on a more mundane level perhaps, the fiftieth anniversary of the Renault 5 hatchback. But Retromobile is more than a show. It coincides with an auction of high-end www.mgenthusiast.com

For the collector who has everything: vintage petrol pumps on sale!

Paul’s Classic Cars are based in Normandy and describe themselves as providing “restaurations à la carte”. Asking price for this MGB in metallic pewter with red leather seats was 45,000 Euros. classic cars by Artcurial which this year included a collection of six cars from the collection of gentleman racing driver Ilario Bandini and the Gordini Type 18S aced at Le Mans in 1950 by Juan Manuel angio.For those with less cash to spend, there are endless trade stands catering for the classic car enthusiast’s every need, including parts, models, books, historic sales brochures, works of art and much more – even vintage petrol pumps, should you need one. Where does MG fit into all this? The place to start was the stand of the MG Club de France, which since its foundation in 1981 has expanded to include 1400 members who between them own 1700 MG cars. That means that quite a few members must own more several cars! Under the presidency of Christian Lissot

Several specialists in motoring literature had stalls at the event.

Label-Collection.com is a Paris-based specialist dealer in cars of the 1960s -1990s. The red MGB was priced at 21,500 Euros and the white GT at 21,000 Euros.

1969 MGB offered by a private seller at 22,500 Euros. this is a very active club which organises something like100 different activities per year, the highlight for 2022 being a celebration of 60 years of the MGB to be held in Beaune between 3 – 6 June at which over 90 different MGBs are expected. For more information, contact mgcf60b@gmail.com Naturally, an MGB took pride of place at the club’s stand at Retromobile. It certainly wasn’t the only one at the show, for this is an event where you can not only look but buy. And, no doubt because of the car’s anniversary, there seemed to be a larger number of MGBs for sale than is usual. If you missed Retromobile this time round, the dates for next year have already been announced: it takes place on 1 – 5 February 2023.

MGE MAY 2022 83

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NOW AVAILABLE TO BUY ONLINE ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT

RV8 MG Rocker Covers £267 pair

RV8 Petrol Sender withTank Seal & Locking Ring. £69.95 RV8 Headlight Cowl in composite £138.00 each

RV8 Spax Krypton filled dampers

Adjustable on car through 28 different stages £275.00 (front) £299.50 (rear) full set £552

- save £22.50

V8 Engine Steady Bar This is the best you can buy for the money! RV8 BumpStops £69.95 in poly. Fit and forget £55.20 pair New, better quality, harder wearing replacement overmats. Original patterns, colour & embroidered with MG logo. Pair RV8 mats £99.50

www.mgenthusiast.com

MGB Roadster, 1972, Rebuilt by ourselves in 2013. Finished in Blue Royale with Magnolia Leather Seats, Blue Mohair Hood, C/W/W. £19,995.00

CCHL MG Specialists

MGB Roadster full rebuild from £26,995.00 to customer own colour choice.

Rebuilt MGB V8 with a new Heritage body shell £42,995.00 • V8 engine • New Edelbrock carburettor • New 5 speed gearbox • Uprated front suspension • Uprated front brakes • Polyurethane suspension bushes • Leather seats • S/S sports exhaust system • Individually built for you MGB 1800cc Heritage body shell full rebuilds also available from £31,995.00 MGB V8 rebuilds available using refurbished body shells from £34,995.00.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT SIMON - FULL COLOUR BROCHURE AVAILABLE - PLEASE PHONE FOR DETAILS UNIT 1, 29 BANKSIDE, HULL, EAST YORKSHIRE HU5 1SY

TEL: 01482 441 551

Email: info@cchl.co.uk • www.cchl.co.uk

Events Your round-up of the latest MG Event news

Season opener sees strong MG presence at NEC

Words and photos: Craig Cheetham

The traditional indoor show season opener at the NEC saw several MG clubs in attendance as over 25,000 people flocked through the doors of the Birmingham exhibition centre. Highlights among the MG community included a strong display of cars from the MG Car Club Young Members branch on the MGCC stand, while the neighbouring MGB Register had the London to Sydney MGB as its star attraction – the 1968 roadster campaigned by Jean Denton and Tom Boyce was restored in 2018. A strong display from the Z Register also completed the MGCC corner of the show. Across the hall, the MG Owners Club was keen to promote its spare service and an MGB restoration project took centre stage among cars that could be restored to a similar condition. Next door, there was a wonderful selection of older MGs courtesy of the Octagon Car Club, which always puts on a fabulous display. 2022 was no different. There were plenty of MGs for sale, too, including a fine selection of beautifully restored MGAs and Bs from Oselli – not cheap, but if you want the best then quality costs money, and these four were absolutely beautiful.

86 MGE MAY 2022

www.mgenthusiast.com

Your round-up of the latest MG Event news Events

The MGCC Triple-M Register flies down the hatch Words and Photos: Colin Murrell The eagerly awaited start to the MG Car Club’s race season started on March 20th at the fabulous Brands Hatch Circuit. Despite being a month or so earlier than usual, warm afternoon sunshine soon warmed up the earlier frosty start to the day. Triple-M MGs were first off the blocks with their qualifying session, the top 10 qualifiers being: ■ Andrew Long: MG N Type ■ Tony Seber: Wolseley Hornet Special. ■ Duncan Potter: MG Montlhery Midget ■ Andrew Morland: MG PA ■ Mike Davies-Colley: MG PA. ■ Fred Boothby: MG J2 ■ Chris Edmondson: MG D Type ■ Teifion Salisbury: MG K3 ■ Mark Dolton: MG PB ■ Richard Frankel: MG J4 The sights, sounds, and smells were a real treat for all of the senses. Another treat came courtesy of the M-Type Midget and 18/80 Mk11 Prototype. Both very welcome additions to the usual starting grid contingents. Race One - The Baynton Jones Historic Motorsport Triple M Challenge – was won by Andrew Long in his N-Type. Late Afternoon would see the second Triple-M Race of the day. The J-Type 90th Anniversary challenge sponsored by Baynton Jones Historic Motorsport. This saw another lights to flag victory for Andrew Long, with other great battles throughout the field. The MG CarCclub has asked to extend its thanks to the competitors, MSV Brands Hatch, the marshalls and everyone else who played a part in making it happen. The next MG Car Club Triple-M Racing Day takes place at Donington in July – more details to follow.

www.mgenthusiast.com

MGE MAY 2022 87

FOR THE

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WWW.MOTORFREEADS.CO.UK CURRENT LISTINGS MG MIDGET

1979, £4,750. Midget 1500 Chrome Bumper conversion body rebuild and photos lamination. Engine rebuilt. All new interior. Please call 01978790820, Wales. 113494

MG MGB

1961, £5,000. The car was rebuilt and registered as an MG Special in 1961 and looks to be based on a TC, it was last taxed in 1967. It’s part dismantled but comes with lots of parts including wings, 2 windscreens, 1 ½ spare bonnets and lots more. It has a buff logbook and a current V5C. Some parts are in poor condition but it would make the basis of a good project. Call for more details 01277 823057 South East. Please call 01277 823057, South East.

1963, £20,995. Chrome bumpers, non-overdrive, older 90’s restored Mk1 pull door handle model in Tartan Red with bespoke Ivory leather interior trim complimented with walnut facia and Mota-Lita wood rim steering wheel, good condition Red vinyl weather equipment. Please call 01707 876089, East of England. (T)

113457

112977

MG MGB

MG MGA

1957, POA. MGA Coupe, LHD, for restoration, dismantled, UK registered. Please call 01763262263, East of England. (T) 112961

MG TC

1957, 3900 miles, £32,995. 1500 in Glacier Blue with black trim. Weather Equipment. Steel wheels. Originally a North American Export, shipping out 18 September 1957. Returned to the UK in 1991 and then restored by Batheaston Artefactors. Please call 01636 812700, East Midlands. (T) 112969

1971, £16,950. MGB Roadster, 1971, chrome bumpers, overdrive, chrome wire wheels, older late 90’s comprehensive bare shell ‘Rotisserie’ restoration by renowned MG Specialists AJRestorations of Dorset with invoices exceeding £18k back then!, Tartan Red coachwork still in good condition. Please call 01707 876089, East of England. (T) 112978

FEATURE YOUR MOTOR IN YOUR FAVOURITE MAGS!

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MG MGB

£25,995. MGB GT, fully rebuilt using a new Heritage bodyshell in 2018, ﬁnished in metallic grey with light green trim, this car looks stunning and has an incredible speciﬁcation, it underwent our full rebuild and has only covered 1500 miles since. Ready to go and enjoy. Link to video https://youtu.be/rOiSSkLbG3g The additional items added during the full restoration included - 15” chrome wire wheels Brake servo unit Poly suspension bushes Bilstein front suspension Spax rear suspension Carpet underfelt Door mirrors pair Uprated headlamps Electric cooling fan Walnut dashboard Walnut front door cappings Leather centre console Walnut centre console Woodrim steering wheel and more. Please call 01482 441551, Yorkshire and the Humber. (T)

MG MGB

£29,995. MGB Roadster rebuild to individual specification, you can choose the exterior colour and interior trim along with many other additions you want to make the car unique and personal to you. Full standard specification can be found on the specification page. This will be with a new Heriatge shell rebuilding to individual specification. Call for full details. Please call 01482 441551, Yorkshire and the Humber. (T)

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MG MGB

£34,995. MGB GT full rebuild using a refurbished body, comes with rebuilt 3.5 V8 engine mated to a 5 speed gearbox, Edelbrock carb and electronic ignition. S/S sports manifold and exhaust system. Uprated brakes and suspension along with poly bushes, New trim including leather seats and new chrome bumpers and grille. A full rebuild as per the rebuild spec for a chrome bumper GT 3.5 V8. £34,995.00. Please call 01482 441551, Yorkshire and the Humber. (T) 113510

MG RV8

113508

MG ROADSTER

113506

MG MGB

1995, £2,250. MG R V8 – 62k miles and in exceptionally good condition. Excellent bodywork with lovely paintwork; New rear window in the hood. The engine “rumbles” like a V8 should, and the car drives really well. Fitted with the later R380 5 speed gearbox gearbox. Nice stone leather interior and the walnut has been restored and looks lovely. “RV8” number plate included!. Please call 07990 977197, Greater London. (T) 113511

£32,995. MGB Roadster 3.5 V8 Rebuild MGB Roadster 3.5 V8 Rebuilt to individual speciﬁcation using an original MGB Roadster shell and fully prepared with a fully rebuilt 3.5 V8 engine along with a 5 speed gearbox. Uprated front suspension, 4 pot front brakes, Stainless Steel Sports manifold and exhaust system, leather seats, 15” mini lite style alloy wheels. Call for full details on this great opportunity to have a 3500cc V8 Roadster prepared to your own personal speciﬁctaion. Please call 01482 441551, Yorkshire and the Humber. (T) 113507

TO ADVERTISE VISIT:

1972, £19,995. MGB Roadster, 1972, finished in Blue Royale with magnolia trim and leather seats and navy blue carpet. Fully rebuilt by ourselves in 2013 to a very nice specification and only covered around 3000 since. The MG went through our standard build scheme but was also fitted with brake servo unit, Spax rear suspension, Poly bushes, electronic ignition, revotec cooling fan,KandN air filters, S/S exhaust system, boot carpet, walnut dashboard and door cappings, chrome wire wheels, Moto Lita steering wheel and fitted with a blue Mohair hood. A great looking MGB ready to enjoy, sold with a full service and M.O.T check. Please call 01482 441551, Yorkshire and the Humber. (T) 113509

OR EMAIL:

MG MGB

1974, £13,950. Chrome bumpers, overdrive, wire wheels, supplied to previous custodians by ‘Grundy Mack’ Classic Cars of Huddersﬁeld, comprehensive body and mechanical restoration by ‘Entune MG and Classic Car Specialists’ of Manchester in early 2000’s. Please call 01707 876089, East of England. (T) 112982

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THE PUT ONE I V8 TUNING GUIDE … AND

ZT PROTO HP 0B 50 that’s ff one-o The February 2022 / No. 410

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TF at 20

dib le T V8

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1999 MGF 75TH ANNIVERSARY L

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ROAD-READY ROADSTER

RESTORED TO PERFECTION Professionally-

April 2021 / No. 399

80TH ANNIVERSARY TF

May 2021 / No. 400

Just an £8k investment to drive away in this superb 1976 MGB

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MGF returns from the Alps

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2300 miles 25 mountain passes and one Italian alternator…

ATCH

EEKEND TURNED YEARS

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UR ELECTRIC FUTURE? We£100kdriveanswerthe Res

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1959 AUSTRALIAN MGA

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Schuco Piccolo MGA Coupé by Andrew Ralston

eavy, isn’t it?” would be the most likely reaction of someone picking up a Schuco Piccolo model for the first time. Although made to a small scale (1/90th) these little models weigh more than many of their larger counterparts because they are cast in one solid piece rather than as a bodyshell attached to a chassis. As a result, the windows are not cut out but sprayed silver, which gives these models their distinctive appearance. Their weight and tiny rubber tyres also allow them to run along a flat surface at a satisfying speed which must have made them fun to play with in an era before the high speed ‘Hot Wheels’ type of car had been invented. The apparently unusual choice of scale, which makes the cars little more than 5cm in length, is probably explained by the fact that they are compatible with HO model railways. Other German toy companies, notably Wiking, had already produced cars and other accessories with this in mind but these were in plastic and more fragile than the solid Schucos. “

The Schuco Piccolo, produced between 1958 and 1963, is one of the hardest to find MGA models in mint condition with original box.

Solid, one-piece construction makes the Shuco Piccolo MGA heavier than most model cars. 96 MGE MAY 2022

...THE ONE PICTURED CAUSED QUITE A STIR WHEN IT SURFACED IN 2021, IN THE USA, AND SOLD FOR WHAT COULD WELL BE A RECORD PRICE OF US$326... www.mgenthusiast.com

Relatively few MGA models are of the Coupé as most of them represent the open Roadster.

WEIGHT AND TINY TYRES ALSO ALLOW RUN ALONG A FLAT CE AT A SATISFYING WHICH MUST HAVE THEM FUN TO PLAY WITH...

trade name Schuco they soon gained a reputation for making cleverlydesigned mechanical toys: figures that could walk or jump; a mechanical car which had a four-speed and reverse gearbox and even a ‘pick-pick’ bird that pecked its way across the table. The Piccolo cars arrived in 1957 and lasted until the early 1970s, by which time Schuco had replaced them with more modern model cars like the ‘Superschnell’ series. By the 1990s, however, miniature cars were increasingly being bought by adult collectors and the Piccolo range made a comeback. This was not simply a case of re-running the old models. Many of them did reappear but there were also new subjects in the unmistakable style of the old ones, notably a series of Volkswagen, Page from the 1959 Schuco catalogue depicts the MG with some of the other models DKW, Mercedes and Ford delivery in the range. vans, offering plenty of scope for endless limited editions in different promotional liveries. enough, based on German prototypes Norev of France), most ‘A’ models are ation based on open Roadsters. No. 714 in the Piccolo series, the MGA model was produced between 1958 and 1963 in a variety of colours able including blue, red, dark green, light green, black, beige or yellow. Examples , to the MG come up for sale occasionally in , it has ‘played-with’ condition. You could wait years to find one mint with the original box, which is why the one pictured caused quite a stir when it surfaced in 2021, in the USA, and sold for what could well be a record price of US$326 (about £228). Someone out there was ekno absolutely determined to add the Schuco Piccolo MGA to a collection. MGE MAY 2022 97

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As featured on Chnel 4's "Deals on Wheels"

GOOD/RTOED  AL WANSOLD

MG R V8, 1995, Woodcote Green, MG R V8 – 62k miles and in exceptionally good condition. Excellent bodywork with lovely paintwork; New rear window in the hood. The engine “rumbles” like a V8 should, and the car drives really well. Fitted with the later R380 5 speed gearbox gearbox Nice stone leather interior and the walnut has been restored and looks lovely. “RV8” number plate included! £22,500

MG B Roadster, 1972, Tartan Red, Automatic, Rebuilt on a new Heritage bodyshell. fully rustproofed. Total bare metal respray just completed – October 2021. Drives great, good oil pressure, no smoke and BW35 auto. Minator minilite style wheels. Lumenition Optronic Electronic ignition. Goodrich stainless brake hoses, Kunifer solid lines, stainless exhaust £17,500 system, chunky grip Mota-Lita steering wheel.

MG B Roadster, 1972, Tartan Red, Heritage Shell, Very rare MG B Roadster (factory) Automatic – REBUILT on a new HERITAGE bodyshell. Originally White, it was re shelled using a BL Motor Heritage full shell in 1996 and changed to Tartan Red, fully rustproofed while being built, and still an excellent car both underneath and up top. Total bare metal respray just completed. £17,000

MG B Roadster Mk1, 1963, ONLY 2 owners from new: Possibly 32k miles from new!! History file back 40 years. Body restoration in 2021, which included new castle rail sections, new inner and outer sills, rear wings, and front wing panels, finished off with a bare metal respray. 3 bearing engine, non overdrive gearbox, original non prefix number plate. New red leather interior and hood just fitted; New hood frame; New chromework; New wire wheels with new tyres! £16,500

Genuine Mini Cooper Sportspack. mpi, 1275cc, Signal Red, Bare metal restoration completed 2021! No rust on the body panels with immaculate paintwork. Original engine runs well ; Rebuilt gearbox with no selection or syncro problems! New chrome work; New grill; Wheels & tyres in excellent condition. FULL SERVICE £16,500 HISTORY including invoices for work and all MOTs.

MG B Roadster, 1972, Primrose Yellow, Overdrive, Chrome wire wheels. Bare metal respray completed in 2021; New ﬂoorpans, castle rails, inner & outer sills, and inner wheels arches ﬁtted. New brake discs/pads, reconditioned steering rack; Unleaded engine. New black leather interior, piped in Primrose yellow; New mohair hood. New chrome wire wheels; New chromework including a new grill. £14,500

• Walnut dashboards • HD/LHD conversions • bber to Chrome bumper conversion

• New & Secondhand parts • DeliverCollection • Storage Facilities

• Hood SHOP CILTIES: fting • Wire wheel conversions

• Mechanical Servicing /pairs • Body Rstoration & esprs • Welding to MOT standard • TrimmingCarpet ﬁing

Mini Classic 7 mpi, 2000, Old English White Extremely rare Mini Seven mpi; 1275cc engine; Only 374 produced as a special edition classic. Last year of production of the classic Mini shape. 52k miles with some history dating back 10 years. BARE METAL respray just completed! New door skins and quality paintwork. Previous owner has ﬁtted a Carbon Fibre roof which cost in excess of £1,200.Brand new 12” alloys wheels and Yokohama tyres just ﬁtted; Body colour coded dashboard standard in the Mini Seven. £12,500

MG B Roadster, 1980, Black, Overdrive, Walnut, Chrome bumper, Red Leather, Lovely paintwork, no rust bubbles, Engine removed and all oils seals and gasgets replaced; New clutch – 2021, Gearbox cleaned, new oil seal ﬁtted 2021, still slight bearing noise. New parabolic rear leaf springs – 2021, walnut dash & door cappings; Red mohair hood. £11,500

MG B GT, 1972, Trafalgar Blue, Overdrive. Originally commissioned for the Earl’s Court Motor Show in 1972; 35 years service history and old MOTs. Full body restoration by Cotswold Classic Car restoration specialist at a cost of around £11,000 in 2016 and only done 6k miles! Engine and overdrive gearbox in excellent working order. £11,500

MG B GT, 1974, Harvest Gold. Overdrive gearbox, bodywork in excellent condition, lovely paintwork; Seams on wings very good as are all the panel gaps; Front spoiler can be removed and replaced with a standard valance. Runs lovely and sounds great with a cherry exhaust. Wolfrace alloys x 5 with new tyres if preferred. £10,000

MG B GT, 1972, Tartan Red. Overdrive, Leather. Body and paintwork in lovely condition with no rust on the panels; Underwent a complete respray in Feb 2022; Mechanically in good condition with fully functioning overdrive gearbox; Good strong oil pressure; £9,500 Engine bay very clean and body colour!.

MG B GT, 1974, Harvest Gold. Overdrive gearbox, Webasto Sunroof. Service history 11 years, old MOTs. Body work, excellent condition, no rust bubbles on the paintwork. Seams on wings are very good, as are all the panel gaps. Runs lovely and sounds great with a cherry exhaust. Wolfrace alloys x 5 with new tyres can be ﬁtted if preferred. £9,500

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Parts for TA to TF 1936-55, YA YB YT, MGA & Magnette Secure online shopping at: www.mgbits.com or by phone ...worldwide shipping

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ur in o ition Now6th ed 2

T&Y Type or MGA & Z series catalogues- email or phone for your copy

INTERIOR TRIM AND WEATHER EQUIPMENT - WINTER SALE!! J001ATF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LEATHER SEAT KIT-BLACK TF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .660.00 J003ATF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INTERIOR KIT BLACK TF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .576.00 J007B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SEAT BACKBOARD/SPRING ASSY TA/B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .432.00 J150D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CARPET SET-BEIGE RHD ZA/B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174.00 J711A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .COVER/PIPING-CAPPING BLACK MGA R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48.00 J301M. . . . . . . . . . . . . .CARPETS RED (LHD) WITH FOOTWELL TD TF . . . . . . . . . . . . .150.00 J725A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CARPETS-MAIN BLACK RHD MGA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .192.00 J300SM. . . . . . . . . . . . . CARPET SET-RED (RHD) 5 SPEED CONV TD/F . . . . . . . . . . . . .150.00 J150SL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CARPET SET-PINE GREEN LHD ZA/B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168.00 J724AM . . . . . . . . . . . OVERMATS MGA 2PC RHD BLACK/RED PIPING . . . . . . . . . . . . .54.00 J125DM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HALF TONNEAU-FAWN MOHAIR TD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .348.00 J122D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HALF TONNEAU-FAWN CANVAS TC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .234.00 J149AS . . . . . . . . . . . . OVERMATS 2PCE BLACK/GREEN PIPING ZA/B. . . . . . . . . . . . . .57.60 J129A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HALF TONNEAU-BLACK CANVAS TF. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .264.00 J717D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TONNEAU-SMALL-BEIGE RHD MGA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .192.00 J716A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TONNEAU-LARGE BLACK LHD MGA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .204.00 J730P . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CARPETS-MAIN GREY LHD MGA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .162.00 J718A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TONNEAU-SHORT-BLACK LHD MGA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174.00 J825M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SLIDING SIDESCREENS RED VINYL MGA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .750.00 Prices include VAT, not applicable outside the UK

NTG Motor Services Ltd 282-284 Bramford Road Ipswich IP1 4AY Tel: +44(0)1473 406031/2 Fax: +44(0)1473 742087 sales@mgbits.com British Motor Heritage Approved - founded 1966

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