Lot details Registration No: HPJ 491 Chassis No: WA0497 Mot Expiry: Aug 2011
The most luxurious motorcar ever to emerge from Abingdon, the MG WA was unveiled at the 1938 London Motor Show. Based on a sturdy box-section ladder-frame chassis equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf spring suspension, the newcomer employed the same wheelbase as the SA but benefited from a wider rear track and larger 14-inch drum brakes. Powered by a 2.6-litre OHV straight-six engine allied to four-speed manual transmission, it was reputedly capable of over 90mph.
The MG flagship was available with a choice of Saloon (ú442), Tickford Drophead Coupe (ú468) or Charlesworth Tourer (ú450) coachwork, all of which were extremely luxuriously appointed. However, the timing was unfortunate and, cut short by the intervention of WWII, WA Saloon production is thought to have amounted to just 265 cars - of which only around 34 are believed to remain in existence today.
The RHD WA being sold was first registered in May 1939 and is resplendent in black and silver coachwork complemented by a red leather interior and fitted with the optional second spare wheel. The recently completed restoration was carried out by Chisbon Restorations over a 14 year period, during which time the car is understood to have been stripped to the chassis and refurbished as required. Additionally, various modifications were carried out to assist with today's driving conditions, eg: the fitting of an electric fan, battery cut-out switch, flashers, halogen bulbs etc. There is said to be a good photographic record of all the work, plus the related invoices.
Apparently the original body lost its shape when it was removed from the chassis and stored upside down by a previous owner! The current body is therefore a restored example from another vehicle. The vendor regards the coachwork, paintwork, engine, gearbox, electrics and interior of this most imposing MG as 'excellent' and it is taxed and MOT'd until August 2011.
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