5 Classic MG Cars

Over the years, MG have produced a number of fantastic classic cars. Even though the company has changed hands several times, it’s never lost sight of producing high-quality vehicles. From the MGB, to the MG Midget, here are five wonderful classic MGs.

MG TA

The TA was first produced in 1936 and became a game changer because it opened up sports car ownership for a wider market. It featured hydraulic brakes, a synchromesh gearbox and 1.3 litre straight-four engine. With twin SU carburettors, the TA had a top speed of 80 mph. A total of 3003 TAs were sold before it was replaced by the MG TB in 1939.

MGB

Introduced in 1962, the MGB was an innovative design, making use of a monocoque structure instead of a traditional body-on-frame layout. The car had a lightweight body that reduced manufacturing costs and added to the overall strength. The interior featured a comfortable driving compartment with lots of legroom. It was also one of the first cars to feature controlled crumple zones, designed to protect the driver and passenger in a 30 mph impact with a barrier.

MG Old Number 1

There has been a lot of debate as to whether the Old Number 1 was the first MG car ever built. It was certainly the first MG built to compete in sporting events and it grew the reputation of MG. The Old Number 1 was first seen at the 1925 Lands End Trial. It was based on a bullnose Morris chassis and featured a modified rear section. The car was fitted with an overhead valve Hotchkiss engine with a 1548cc capacity. These features made the Old Number 1 a stand out vehicle for MG.

MG Midget

Building on the success from the Old Number 1, MG eventually brought out the M-Type, also known as a Midget. It was heavily influenced by the Morris Minor, borrowing several features which included the engine and chassis style. The Midget’s elegant appearance didn’t hold it back on the track, as it proved to be a successful racing vehicle. The Midget can be considered one of the first truly affordable sports car, being a lot cheaper than the cheapest Morris Minor at the time.

MGB GT V8

The MGB GT V8 came out in 1973 and swapped out the standard four-cylinder engine for a Rover V8. This increased the performance of the car but didn’t affect handling, thanks to the V8’s lightweight build. It actually weighed forty pounds less than the four-cylinder.