Highlights
- Period correct addition of a Marshall Supercharger and Armstrong preselector gearbox
- Fabulous interior that is luxurious and purposeful in equal measure
- 1,086cc straight-six engine with an innovative cross flow cylinder head
The Appeal
Introduced in 1931 and offered in 4 seat open and closed Salonette variants, the 6-cylinder L1 Magna aimed to bring much needed refinement to MG’s range.
This handsome 1933 open tourer has been further advanced with the later addition of an Armstrong preselector gearbox (not the ENV 75 preselector gear box that is usually in the MG this one is a stronger box and more reliable) and a Marshall Supercharger. Capable of a then heady 75mph in standard form, L1s were renowned for their smoothness, producing little to no vibration at any speed.
This example is no exception, the vendor informing us that it is a pleasure to drive and eminently capable in the melee of modern traffic. As magnificent to use as it is to behold, this MG would make a fabulous addition to any collection and the opportunity to acquire one does not arise often.
The History and Paperwork
- Purchased on 24th June 1933 by a Mr C.R. Lauchian from Dunalistair, Edinburgh
- Supplied by University Motors, London
- Subsequently owned by Mr C.J.B. Dew in Cheshire during the mid ’60s
- The car then travelled to Canada in 1992 where it lived in Ontario with Mr W. Zimmerman
- In 2007, it changed hands once more and remained with Mr James Edney until 2019
- The car then returned to the United Kingdom
- It now resides in Rome, Italy
- Supplied with V5c and logbook
- MG registration number
- Preselector gearbox and supercharger believed to have been fitted many years ago
- Some mechanical work completed by MG experts Baynton Jones
The Interior
- Engine turned dashboard
- Reupholstered red leather
- Octagonal MG instrument binnacles
- Sprung steering wheel
- Light patination
This MG’s snug cabin is a simply marvellous place to be. You can easily understand why cars such as this found favour with airmen in period, as you’d be forgiven for thinking you are sitting in the cockpit of an aeroplane rather than a motorcar.
The beautiful engine turned dashboard fascia gives the car a real sporting feel and the aeronautical theme is reinforced by the numerous instruments, arranged within octagonal binnacles set before the driver and front passenger. This MG has multiple octagonal badges throughout the car.
The large 4-spoke steering wheel is an exquisite item and the driver needn't remove their hand from it to change gear, which is accomplished instead by adjusting the preselector attached to the steering column.
The red leather seats have evidently been reupholstered at some point and remain in excellent order, with a smattering of wear and patination which really suits the MG’s character.
This Magna’s interior represents a perfect balance between luxury and purposefulness, with beautiful furnishings and adornments accompanying raw elements such as the exposed gearbox casing jutting out of the floor. It really evokes the style and panache of those ‘30s motoring heroes and, with the roof lowered, driver and passengers are able to experience the sights, sounds and smells of pre-war motoring to the fullest.
The Exterior
- Blue paintwork
- Very good condition
- Convertible hood operates well
Unlike many vehicles of this vintage which languish in museum collections, the vendor is not afraid to use this car and so advises that there will be the odd blemish commensurate with use.
That said, the exterior condition of this car really is very good indeed, with no damage or structural corrosion we could discern. The subtle blue paintwork really suits the MG’s sleek lines and it is offset nicely by the aforementioned red interior. We could see a little crazing to the paint finish in localised areas and some wear around the leading edge of panels but nothing that would concern us.
There is some rust on exposed mechanisms such as the back of the brake drums and a few of the fastenings. The brightwork is generally very good, with light patination befitting of the car’s age.
The convertible hood apparently operates as it should and the fabric is in good condition. We also understand that the car is offered with side screens and a tonneau cover.
The wire wheels are in excellent order and the vendor informs us that the tyres have ample tread remaining.
The Mechanics
- Marshall Supercharger and Armstrong preselector gearbox
- 1,086cc straight-six engine
- Lengthened final ratio for improved cruising
We are informed that this MG is wonderful to drive, benefiting enormously from the addition of a Marshall supercharger. As a result, it now has a single carburettor and performs very strongly, even in modern traffic.
In spite of its small displacement, the 1,086cc straight-six engine was enviably smooth compared to 4-cylinder units. This is further advanced in this example by the Armstrong preselector gearbox - quite the engineering marvel at a time where most cars had non synchromesh units. The vendor informs us that this unit operates perfectly and affords the MG an almost modern feel as the final ratio is lengthened to allow for relaxed cruising at lower revs.
We understand that MG specialists Baynton Jones replaced the steering arms, drop arms, reassembled the front axle, overhauled the brakes and went through the gearbox. There are various MG-labelled parts throughout the engine bay.
As a result, the car drives, changes gear and stops exactly as it should, with no untoward noises, smoke or leaks.
Summary
Presented in charming condition, this rare MG L1 Magna embodies all the excitement of pre-war motoring and cannot help but bring a smile to the faces of all those who drive it, ride in it, or see it out and about.
Wearing a light patination inside and out and apparently in good mechanical shape, this has to be amongst the most usable L1s out there and we hope it continues to be driven and enjoyed well into the future.
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