Description
THE BADGE engineering feat carried off by BMC in the late 50s and early 60s must go down as the cleverest trick of all time when it comes to British car manufacturing. Although the range did not all kick off at the same time, they gave us Pinin Farina's Italian-based design of the Austin Cambridge, Morris Oxford, Wolseley 16/ 60, MG Magnette and Riley 4/ 72. Prices ranged from £720 for the Austin to £999 for the two "sporty" models, Magnette and Riley. All clever stuff. Something for everyone. Well, at least was the thinking behind the set-up!
Cambridge and Oxford sold like hot cakes, knocking on for around 300, 000 sales for each model. By the top you got to the top of the tree, MG and Magnette managed closer to 14, 000 apiece.
Magnettes, understandably, remain rare birds. Setting out with the 1500cc unit, they moved from Mark III to Mark IV - which we have here - and that came with the favored 1622cc Farina engine.
So, like the Riley, the Magnette was aimed at the more sporty driver while BMC let the mid-priced Wolseley carry the tag of stately luxury. Equipped with twin carbs, wooden dash and door cappings and its exclusive front end, the MG variant did - just about - at least look different. Like the Riley, its "cut-away" rear light clusters differed from Austin, Morris and Wolseley too.
This 1966 model is a delightful example in two tone light blue and cream. Fully re-sprayed just eight years ago, she really looks the part. She is a solid old girl too and drives spot on. You can barely hear the engine, it is so quiet and she returns impressive oil pressure. The front seats have been re-upholstered in light blue leather and fairly recently by the looks of it. The rear seat remains in its original light grey. If you are fussy, I would highly recommend using the tried and tested Vinylkote which comes in spray cans and can be matched to any colour you wish to supply. It works superbly and effortlessly on both leather and vinyl. The roof lining is not great either although I believe I have priced the Magnette accordingly mainly due to such cosmetic areas and she remains an excellent classic for the money. There are small areas of paint imperfections here and there but they do not detract from the overall prettiness of this lovely sports saloon.
I am Martin (Martin Howey Classics. Est 27 years) and I can also assist with delivery and so please ask me for a quote. Thanks, Martin the details below).
