Beschreibung
We are pleased to offer this delightfully patinated and ready to use MG J2.
Announced in August 1932 and developed from the M-type and Montlhery Midgets, the MG J2 was attractively priced to leave 'ten bob' change out of £200. The records set by the diminutive MG cars had captured the imagination of the public and the company was quick to capitalise on this by marketing a car not too dissimilar from the works competition cars. The fold flat windscreen, external Le Mans style rear mounted fuel tank, knock on wheels, cut away door profiles and remote control gear lever appealed to the dashing beaus of the thirties. However not only did the car project the sporting image, it had performance to match its good looks. The 847cc, four cylinder, overhead camshaft engine, fuelled by twin SU carburettors and driving through a four speed gearbox, gave the J2 a cruising speed of around 50mph and a top speed approaching 80mph, thus ensuring the competitiveness of the new J2 in its class in the hands of the amateur driver. The J2 was offered only in two-seater form and in a build run ending early in 1934 some 2083 examples left the Abingdon production lines.
“UG4870” was first registered in Leeds on 10th May 1933, being sold to a Roy Barrowclough by Stoddarts of Harrogate. It is recognised by the MG Car Club Triple-M Register being the 125th car added to their records in the early 60s. While there is a break in the ownership history, the old style buff log book picks up from 1955 onwards – seven owners, all in the North East of England. In 1978 the car was acquired by well-known north country MG exponent, Bill Wood of Scruton, from whom Stanley Chaplin acquired the car in 1987. During their ownerships UG 4870 was actively campaigned in rallies, including successful participation in the demanding Beamish Reliability Trial.
The car is presented in black livery with red wheels and brown upholstery – all with that delightful patina that comes from regular use. It is equipped with Lucas headlamps and Butler spotlamps and has the practical modification of hydraulic brakes. At some stage during its life the engine and gearbox has been changed, being fitted with a BMC A series 948cc engine (as fitted to the first series of post war midgets). This gives it quite exciting performance and it must be one of the quickest road going J2s.
Under current ownership the car has been overhauled with work on the top end of the engine and front suspension, new dynamo and new wheels/ tyres. The car has also been fitted with twin SUs and LCB exhaust which provide spritely performance to match the car’s light weight and sporting looks. It is a delightful, usable, “non concours” car that has been enjoyed throughout its life and is ready to provide the same for the next owner.
For a small car it is extremely roomy in the cockpit and easily accommodates a 6 foot plus driver and the aero screens provide adequate wind protection.
A full windscreen comes with the car along with side screens and a hood albeit not original to the car. There are also some spares including an original rev counter and some new engine mounts.
A video of the car can be found on the St Andrews Autos Youtube channel.
For more information and to arrange a viewing please call James on the details below or contact us via the website.
Thank you for reading.
