Highlights

One of just 22 known surviving examples, of which just 6 are Four-Seat Tourers
In great condition, even down to its UK registration number
Repatriated in 2009 following 74 years in South Africa and completely restored over two years
Well-known in vintage MG circles, regularly participating in Early MG Society rallies around the UK and Europe
Documented in Phil Jennings’ ‘Early M.G.’ along with other publications including the VSCC Bulletin
Accompanied by a carefully curated and richly detailed history file

The Appeal

Often cited as “the first true MG”, for many the advent of 14/40 marked the point of divergence between Morris Motors and the newly-formed M.G. Car Company. We must remember that ‘MG’ stands for ‘Morris Garages’ - originally a retail, sales and service centre in Oxford which under the management of Cecil Kimber, began modifying Morris cars for more customers wanting something more sporting.

We’re delighted to offer on of Kimber’s creations, a 1928 MG 14/40 MkIV - one of just six Four-Seat Tourers believed to survive. In 1936, ‘UV4285’ made its way to South Africa, where it would remain (predominantly in a Johannesburg museum) for the next 74 years.

In 2009, the car returned to the UK after the vendor acquired it. Upon arrival, it underwent a painstaking two-year restoration, and it was re-assigned its original registration number. Well-known in vintage MG circles, actively participating in club rallies and acknowledged in several well-known publications, this 14/40 is a very special car. It’s accompanied by a richly detailed and carefully curated history file, so here’s your opportunity to add your ownership to this MG’s illustrious story as it fast approaches its hundredth birthday.

The History and Paperwork

1928 MG 14/40 registered new as ‘UV4285’
Car Number: 246181
Chassis number: 243181
MG Car number: 4/2620
Engine number: 277387
Build completion date: 14 March 1928
Issued on 17 March 1928
Imported to South Africa by E.B. Sidney in 1936 who the vendor believes to be the original owner (although there are no records to confirm this)
Sold to B.E. Clarke in 1965
Spent more than two decades in a Johannesburg Motor Museum
Following Mr Clarke’s death, the car was auctioned and the vendor acquired it, repatriating the car in 2009
A two-year restoration was subsequently undertaken and the original registration ‘UV4285’ was restored
All numbers reportedly match
Used on a regular basis throughout present ownership
Featured in several notable publications. magazines and bulletins
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
V5C present
4 digit odometer but currently showing 3893 (may have gone around the clock)

The Condition

Sporting engine-turned finish to the aluminium bodywork
Spoked wire wheels fitted - a feature first introduced in 1925
Remanufactured folding hood complete with a full complement of side screens
Beautifully presented interior, with the original instrumentation and controls
Impeccable blue leather upholstery and black carpeting
No notable wear besides a light age-commensurate patina
Non original tool kit

Upon its arrival in the UK, the vendor noted how great the condition this car was for its age and so the restoration process endeavoured to maintain as many of its factory components as possible, restoring parts wherever possible and replacing as little as necessary. The result is a testament to those who worked on it as this car does look heavily restored - appearing instead like an example that’s been judiciously maintained rather than extensively rebuilt.

The colour scheme is exactly replicated, as is the motorsport-style engine-turned finish to the bare aluminium surfaces. On the inside, the interior required total replacement and this work was carried out to a superlative standard, incorporating the original controls and instruments while retrimming the upholstery. As you can see, the bodywork is straight, the remanufactured roof and side screens fit neatly and the level of finish is sublime. Condition-wise, there appears to be nothing the new owner needs to attend to. This truly is a glorious example.

The Mechanics

1,802 cc side-valve four-cylinder engine
Three-speed manual gearbox
Fitted with coil conversion / electric ignition
Matching numbers
Impeccably presented engine compartment
Mechanically restored and reportedly in full working order
Regularly driven since the restoration was completed

Having spent much of its life as a stationary exhibit while in South Africa, this MG required extensive mechanical restoration to return it to the road. Confirmed as matching numbers and complete, this was an excellent starting point so mechanically, this car is as close as possible to when it was new 96 years ago.

The vendor made good use of it since, regularly participating in events with the VSCC and Early MG Society all over the UK and Western Europe. We’re assured that it’s in rude health and drives very nicely with no apparent issues. Many pre-war cars such as this suffer from sitting around, but the vendor is prudent to use this MG regularly - which is what cars are for after all!

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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