1931 MG F-Type Magna Tourer
Registration no. WYJ 529
Chassis no. F0353
Engine no. 677AF

General Manager of Oxford-based Morris Garages, Cecil Kimber brought sports car motoring within the financial reach of the man in the street with a succession of affordable MGs. Broadly similar to the four-cylinder D-Type and introduced simultaneously in 1931 was the six-cylinder F-Type Magna which, like its equally new stablemate, used a development of the under-slung chassis first seen on the racing C-Type Midget, but of longer wheelbase. Wolseley, like MG owned by William Morris, contributed the 12hp, 1,271cc, six-cylinder form that powered the Magna. The latter looked every inch a proper MG but possessed greater refinement than the fours thanks to its smoother, torquier and relatively vibration-free six-cylinder engine. Introduced in 1932, the F2 version boasted 12" brakes (replacing the original 8" drums) and Midget two-seater coachwork, while the mechanically similar F3 was a four-seater tourer.

Chassis number '353' was first registered on 31st December 1931 and was acquired by the current vendor in July 1997, having previously belonged to one Terence Wilson of Branton, Doncaster. The owner has driven the MG every year in the summer and has only recently stopped submitting it for the MoT test as this is no longer a requirement. In early 2004 the engine was completely rebuilt by Vintage & Sports Car Services of Chard, Somerset, whose detailed invoice is on file. The rear axle has new planet gears, and new drive/half shafts have been fitted also. The cable brakes have been regularly maintained with grease points greased and adjustments when needed. An alternator has been fitted next to the gearbox and is driven via a pulley wheel on the prop shaft, thus charging the battery when the car is in motion. The hood and window frames are original, as are the seat frames, while the seats were recovered in white leather and a new canvas hood fitted about 15 years ago. The chassis is said to be in excellent condition. Presented in running order, this charming little MG sports car is offered with aforementioned invoices and a V5 registration document.