If you were asked to list manufacturers of classic British sports cars, MG of Abingdon, England would probably be close to the top. It may therefore come as a surprise to discover that MG sold more saloons than sports cars during the classic period of motoring. PCVC`s first Classic of the Month for 2025 is one such saloon, a 1955 MG ZA Magnette.
MG had been absorbed into the British Motor Corporation when Morris and Austin merged their companies in 1952 and the Magnette was the first new car produced by MG under the BMC banner. Another car with a similar body style was also produced by the BMC company, the Wolseley 4/44. Whilst there were only minor external differences, such as the radiator grill, the interiors were individually styled and the engines differed. The ZA Magnette was produced by MG from 1954 until 1956 and was powered by a 1500 cc, four cylinder, overhead valve engine with twin SU carburettors, that produced 60bhp. Equipped with a four speed gearbox the car was capable of a top speed of 80mph and had a sale price of £914.
Our featured Classic is a beautifully restored four door sports saloon owned by PCVC members Paul and Joan Gannon, who imported the car to Cyprus 4 years ago. As you would expect it`s highly polished Maroon paintwork is complimented by the red leather seating and polished wood interior. There is however a surprise under the bonnet as the car was fitted, back in the 1960s, with the 1622cc engine from a Mark IV Magnette, increasing both the power output and top speed. Stopping power was also increased with the installation of disk brakes to the front wheels. This MG ZA is more than capable of keeping up with modern traffic but does it in style and comfort, and lives up to the MG company motto of “Safety Fast”. The only improvements required would be power steering and, during the Cypriot summer, air conditioning.
IF you have an interest in Classic Vehicles visit any PCVC events and meetings, full details of which can be found on our Facebook page, on our webpage: www.paphosclassicvehicleclub.com, or, telephone, 97760997.
