1957 MG Magnette ZB

Description

1957 MG Magnette ZB

Appealing Varitone example from a series of long term owners; veteran of many classic car tours and gatherings; reconditioned engine fitted 1995

Dating from April 1957, this MG Magnette comes to us in updated ZB form, which saw more power extracted from the 1.5-litre B-series engine, up 4bhp from it's ZA predecessor to 64bhp, improving acceleration to 60mph from 23.1 seconds to a more sporting 18.5 through fitment of larger 38mm bore carbs, a higher compression ratio and modifications to the manifold. 

Power was sent to the rear wheels via four-speed manual transmission, stopping power was courtesy of hydraulic Lockheed drum brakes and we see independent front suspension and a live axle rear.

This car comes to us in appealing Varitone spec, with two-tone paint work and larger rear window which was enlarged at the Morris Motors bodyshop before painting when new, giving rear passengers much more natural light and feeling of airiness in the cabin. 

Finished in two-tone green the car’s paint is a little dull in places, but presentable, with a nice patina, although there are some bits of bubbling evident to the sills, marks and cracking to some paint areas as pictured – remember, the car is 65 years old. The brightwork looks to be in good shiny order and presents well as do the lights and glass.  We also note  a tow hitch, ideal for pulling your classic caravan perhaps?

The interior is super, finished in deep oxblood with matching carpets and door cards, which look to have been renewed in recent years, although the wood cappings would likely benefit from a re-lacquer.  There are a few tired rubber seals but again nothing unusual. 

The history file includes the V5C revealing our vendor has owned the car since September 2015, during which time he has enjoyed the car on a variety of Classic Car tours including the Blue Bell Run and Brunel Run, local shows and European jaunts without a hitch.  The last owner to our vendor enjoyed the car for some 15 years, reluctantly selling to our vendor due to advancing years.

The file includes some correspondence with DVLA confirming a reconditioned engine was fitted in May 1995 (engine no. 15GD-U-H6153, replacing H4431) and DVLA supplied copy old style V5 revealing the previous owner to the last owned the car since at least November 1977, a selection of invoices for parts and works including a replacement brake pressure switch and steering rack boot in September 2017, 2 old MOTs and lubrication chart.

A well-loved example with lovely interior that was driven 40 miles to the sale by its enthusiast owner.

For more information contact - will.daniels@brightwells.com