If you ever fancied an MG then get yourself along to the H&H auction at the Imperial War Museum on 12 October and in the lot list you will find several tempting models.Of the two 1939 MG TA models, this unrestored example will need some attention before being ready for its next lease of life, but seeing this red car parked beneath the nose of a Spitfire got us reaching for our cheque book. In 'excellent' condition after a thorough restoration, this little MG is exhilerating to drive and gorgeous to look at.
The 1934 supercharged MG PA the 948cc engine has Carrillo rods, race pistons and friction-reducing Kawasaki rings and is described as "spot on", as is the pre-selector gearbox. Hmm. Maybe this one instead of the racy red TA. ?
Ken Crawford was a well known name in competition circles in 1935 and he bought a new six cylinder MG Magnette to compete in the Lands End and Edinbugh Trials. He won awards, and Motor Sport reported his performance on the 'Nailsworth Ladder' in the 1935 MG Car Club 'Abingdon to Abingdon' Trial as *Outstandingly good*. You can own this very car by bidding on lot 75.
Whichever one we choose, if we are out-bid, then it's the '29 Riley 9 Tourer or perhaps the 1937 Riley 9 Merlin, with a very modest estimate.
If we end up empty-handed, then we'll hang around outside after the finish, and see if the new owner of the 1924 Bentley drives it home.
Text Robin Batchelor, pictures courtesy H&H Auctions.