Description
Just arrived at The Garage
1934 MG PA - excellent specification
Chassis PA0613 – Registration MG 3242 MMM Register No. 2591
There are MG PAs, and then there are well sorted, competition-proven Triple-M cars that have been engineered with knowledge, long-term ownership and a clear understanding of what makes these cars so engaging to drive.
“Emmy” falls firmly into the latter category, whilst very much a ‘driver’s’ rather than a concours contender – she wears her years well.
When MG introduced the P Type in March 1934 as the successor to the popular J2 Midget, it was immediately recognised as a significant step forward. The new model featured a much stronger three-bearing crankshaft, Tecalemit pressure lubrication, larger 12-inch brakes, a revised cylinder head, heavy-duty clutch and improved gearbox. The result was a car with clear appeal to enthusiastic drivers, particularly those entering trials and hill climbs - precisely the environment in which the Triple-M cars earned their reputation.
This particular example has continued in that spirit throughout its life.
Emmy was first registered on 17 April 1934 by University Motors, 105 Cheyne Walk, London. She may well have served as a demonstrator when new, as early warranty claims are attributed to Capt. Conway Dobb, believed to have been a director of University Motors at the time.
By 1937 she had passed into the ownership of Brad and Joan Bradberry, who were to retain her for many decades. Family history suggests she was originally purchased for a son who later became ill, which explains her modest early mileage. Although the original logbook was lost during the Blitz when the family home was destroyed, the car itself survived in an adjacent garage - a remarkable survival story in itself.
She remained within the Bradberry family until 1988, showing just 79, 000 miles when sold at auction. Acquired in 1989 as a running car, she then entered a long period of careful mechanical development.
Mechanical Development
The engine has been comprehensively and intelligently uprated:
Replacement block bored to 940cc
Phoenix crankshaft and connecting rods
Lightened and balanced flywheel
Baynton Jones fast road camshaft
8. 5:1 compression ratio
1⅛” SU carburettors
Hardened valve seats and renewed valve gear
Rear springs were renewed, the dynamo and starter motor refurbished, and the dynamo converted to two-brush operation with a modern regulator.
The body was sympathetically stripped and rebuilt by a respected vintage body specialist, retaining as much original structure as possible. A new wiring loom was installed and the seats professionally re-upholstered.
A particularly desirable upgrade is the installation of a J2 gearbox, providing improved ratios and eliminating the well-known gap between second and third found in standard PA specification. This gearbox was rebuilt with new bearings and a new first motion shaft.
In 2010 the back axle was refurbished and fitted with a 10% taller crown wheel and pinion, giving more relaxed cruising at speed. Spax rear telescopic dampers were installed at the same time, and the half shafts later upgraded to Roger Furneaux tapered items.
Competition History
From 2010 onwards Emmy was actively campaigned in hill climbs, primarily in Scotland and also on the Isle of Man.
Her record includes:
Multiple handicap trophies
2016 – Third in the Triple-M Speed Championship
2016 – Second equal in Car of the Year
2017 – Car of the Year winner
2017 – Second in the Speed Championship
Following this period of competition success, she was retired from hill climbing and used for touring rallies. The engine has more recently been removed for a full bottom-end refurbishment, ensuring continued reliability for her next custodian.
Recent Work
Steering box rebuilt by Oliver Richardson (2019)
Kingpins, bushes and track rod ends renewed
Various ongoing mechanical improvements
Lamps converted to LED
Flashing indicators fitted
Emmy presents as an honest and well-used driver’s MG.
There are one or two small rust bubbles visible. The interior would benefit from new door cards and properly fitted carpets. The original burr sequoia dashboard remains in place and would respond well to careful polishing. The hood is in good order, the sidescreens are fair, and the tonneau cover remains serviceable.
She has always been maintained to perform rather than merely to present.
This is a genuinely developed, competition-proven MG PA that reflects exactly what the P Type was designed to be - a refined yet robust sporting car for drivers who enjoy using them as intended.
For the buyer seeking a well sorted Triple-M car from long-term enthusiast ownership and documented hill climb success, Emmy represents a compelling and very usable example.
More photos and a video will be updated shortly
For initial enquiries and to arrange an appointment to view, please call us on the details below or the details below.
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