Only 24 MG ND Magnettes were built, all were made in 1934 and all were characterised by their MG K2 bodies installed on the then new N-Type chassis.
The N-Type chassis was a significant step up for MG, it was a brand new design that had a wider rear and brought the centre of gravity down slightly over previous ladder-type chassis. Bodies were now installed on Silentbloc rubber bushes, this had an immediately positive effect on ride quality for passengers and for the first time, MG used a manual (not a pre-selector) transmission.
The engine used in the ND MGs was a six-cylinder 1271cc unit with a single overhead camshaft driven through a vertical dynamo. Fuel and air arrived via a single SU carburettor, after being passed through the Marshall supercharger.
Whereas the standard MG N-type produced 56bhp, the supercharged ND version was pushing out close to 80bhp – making it a force to be reckoned with on the European circuits of the era.
Perhaps most famously the MGs dominated the Tourist Trophy races – often defeating much larger engined Bentleys thanks to handicaps relating to engine capacity.
The MG ND you see here is one of the original 24, it’s been campaigned actively throughout its life and has seen a number of upgrades that have pushing the power output up to an estimated 100hp. It’s been raced against Bentleys, Bugattis, Maseratis and much more over the course of its life – often with either wins or podium positions including an impressive first in class and second overall at the Elkart Lake Vintage Festival at Road America.
Despite its heritage and on-track capabilities, it’s estimated to be worth between $125,000 and $150,000 USD – a bargain when you look at the prices its on-track competition have been garnering over the past few years. If you’d like to bid on it or read more you can click here to visit Bonhams.
Additional information provided by The MG Owners Club UK.
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