
Lot 242 - 1939 12990 VA Tourer
Lot Number | 242 |
Registration | TYJ342 |
Chassis Number | VA2576 |
Engine Number | TPBG1838 |
Odometer reading | 9,978 miles |
Estimate | £18,000 - £22,000 |
Result | Sold - £19,040 |
The MG VA, or MG 1½ litre as it was originally marketed, was
manufactured between February 1937 and September 1939 and was the
smallest of the three sports saloons produced in the late 1930s by
MG; the others being the SA and WA. The car used a tuned version of
the push-rod, overhead valve, four-cylinder Morris TPBG type engine
that was also fitted to the Wolseley 12/48 and Morris 12. The MG
version had twin SU carburettors and offered an impressive 54bhp
via a four-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh on the top three
ratios. Nineteen-inch wire wheels were fitted and the ten-inch drum
brakes were hydraulically operated using a Lockheed system.
Suspension was by half-elliptic springs all round with a live rear
axle and beam front axle; Luvax shock absorbers were fitted, the
rear ones adjustable from the dashboard. In-built hydraulic jacks
were standard. Handsomely styled and more useful than their
diminutive TA sports cars, the VA was usually fitted with saloon
bodywork although a Tickford drophead body was also offered in
addition to a four-seat tourer which was the most rakish body with
its cut down doors. The British Motor magazine tested a VA tourer
which reached a top speed of just over 76mph; with the windscreen
folded down the top speed increased to nearly 82mph.
Manufactured on 26th July 1939 and, since 1990, owned by the late
vendor who was the Chairman and then President, of the SVW Register
for 14 years, this MG VA tourer is accompanied by a host of
paperwork and invoices including a V5 document and correspondence
from the MG car club. TYJ342 is a car that has been well used and
enjoyed rather than tucked away under a cover and, as such,
presents in a thoroughly 'working' condition. The interior appears
to have been restored some 20 years ago and the VA has been well
cared for mechanically. Regularly appearing at rallies and shows,
this pre-war MG tourer will always attract attention, be it on the
open road or at a classic car meet.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.