Lot Ended
Description
1957 MG Magnette ZB
Appealing
Varitone example from a series of long term owners; veteran of many classic
car tours and gatherings; reconditioned engine fitted 1995
Dating from April 1957, this MG Magnette comes to us in updated ZB
form, which saw more power extracted from the 1.5-litre B-series engine, up 4bhp
from it's ZA predecessor to 64bhp, improving acceleration to 60mph from
23.1 seconds to a more sporting 18.5 through fitment of larger 38mm bore carbs,
a higher compression ratio and modifications to the manifold.
Power
was sent to the rear wheels via four-speed manual transmission, stopping power
was courtesy of hydraulic Lockheed drum brakes and we see independent front
suspension and a live axle rear.
This car comes
to us in appealing Varitone spec, with two-tone paint work and larger rear
window which was enlarged at the Morris Motors bodyshop before painting when
new, giving rear passengers much more natural light and feeling of airiness in
the cabin.
Finished in two-tone green the car’s paint is a little dull in
places, but presentable, with a nice patina, although there are some bits of
bubbling evident to the sills, marks and cracking to some paint areas as
pictured – remember, the car is 65 years old. The brightwork looks to be in good
shiny order and presents well as do the lights and glass. We also note a tow hitch,
ideal for pulling your classic caravan perhaps?
The interior is super, finished in deep oxblood with matching
carpets and door cards, which look to have been renewed in recent
years, although the wood cappings would likely benefit from a
re-lacquer. There are a few tired
rubber seals but again nothing unusual.
The history file includes the V5C
revealing our vendor has owned the car since September 2015, during which time
he has enjoyed the car on a variety of Classic Car tours including the Blue Bell
Run and Brunel Run, local shows and European jaunts without a hitch. The last owner to our vendor enjoyed the
car for some 15 years, reluctantly selling to our vendor due to advancing
years.
The file includes some correspondence
with DVLA confirming a reconditioned engine was fitted in May 1995 (engine no.
15GD-U-H6153, replacing H4431) and DVLA supplied copy old style V5 revealing the
previous owner to the last owned the car since at least November 1977, a
selection of invoices for parts and works including a replacement brake pressure
switch and steering rack boot in September 2017, 2 old MOTs and lubrication
chart.
A well-loved example with lovely
interior that was driven 40 miles to the sale by its enthusiast
owner.
For more information contact - will.daniels@brightwells.com