1933 MG L-Type Supercharged

Lot details
Registration No: UAS 720
Chassis No: SABTVR03853106894
Mot Expiry: May 2013

Introduced in March 1933, the L-Type Magna range was born of Cecil Kimber's desire to offer a more civilised foil to the company's rather uncompromising K-series sports cars. Derived from that of the preceding F-series Magna, the newcomer's ladder frame chassis employed a similar 7ft 10in wheelbase and 3ft 6in track. Featuring all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, Hartford friction-type shock absorbers and Bowden cable-operated four-wheel 12-in drum brakes, the L-Type cars were powered by a 1086cc SOHC straight-six engine (complete with twelve-port crossflow cylinder head) allied to four-speed manual transmission. The L1 was a four-seater that could be had with open or closed bodywork, while the L2 was only available as a two-seater tourer. Reputedly capable of 75mph in standard tune, the various L-Type Maganas were sometimes confused with their lesser four-cylinder siblings; a factor that affected sales. Although, not as specialised as the K-series, the L-Type nevertheless distinguished itself in competition with a team of three cars winning the Light Car Club Relay Race at Brooklands in 1933 and the International Alpine Trial the same year; MG as a consequence won the manufacturer's team prize the "Coupe des Alpes". Total L-Type production reputedly amounted to just 576 cars.

The car on offer has documented history from 1980 when an extensive restoration commenced. There are bills chronicling considerable work carried out by Brian Wilson who built-up the rolling chassis. The MG, it is believed, was then exported and returned to the UK around 2003 via the auspices of Barry Walker. Whilst re-registering the car the DVLA required verification and upon inspection it materialised that no chassis number existed on the front chassis knuckle - it is thought the car was involved in an accident during the 1960s whereupon the chassis number may have been lost in repair work. Peter Green, the then Triple M Register Chairman, inspected the car and confirmed in writing the car had been "built on a 1933 L type chassis.and.all the main mechanical components are of pre-war manufacture". The DVLA proceeded to provide a V5C and issued a modern VIN Number.

Subsequently Bob Clare in 2008 issued on behalf of the MGCC a Triple M Register Number 3472 which acknowledges the car and its components within the club. The VSCC have also issued an Eligibility Document and the car has competed in several events. The car is in the same 2-seater configuration as when it was inspected by Peter Green. It now benefits from the fitment of a pre-selector gearbox and front mounted supercharger which gives it considerable advantages in performance.

The car was a class winner in the 2009, 2010 and 2011 Welsh Sprint and Hillclimb Championships (4th overall in 2010) and has also won its class at "La Vie en Bleu". It has gained entries to such prestigious events as The Vernasca Silver Flag and many other UK and European meetings.

The L-Type has been treated to new half shafts, a steering box overhaul, new wheel bearings, a blower refurbishment and a head off inspection within the current ownership. A new set of wheels by Richards Brothers and a spare set of 5 wheels with virtually new Blockleys fitted will be sold with the car. This MG boasts full weather equipment and would seem very well suited to both touring and competition use.