1950 MGYA – Classified of the Week

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Chris Pollitt

As we type this, we’re still reeling from the suspension collapsing on our Rover 800. But we’re not, even in the throes of mechanical rage, going to blame the car’s failure on its Britishness. Britain might not be the automotive powerhouse it once was, instead adopting the policy of becoming a home to the likes of Honda and Nissan. But the fact remains that once, Britain was the best in the world at making cars. As such, we have a rich and glorious back catalogue of machinery to be very proud of indeed. A case in point would be this handsome machine, a 1950 MG Y-type

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We didn’t get the Y-type until 1947, which is remarkable considering the first prototype was built in ‘39. However, there was the matter of World War 2 getting in the way, which delayed things somewhat. When it did arrive, MG was very proud indeed, as evidenced by the glowing prose spilling from the sales literature, “A brilliant new Member of the famous MG breed. This new One and a Quarter Litre car perpetuates the outstanding characteristics of its successful predecessors – virile acceleration, remarkable ‘road manner,’ instant response to controls, and superb braking. A ‘lively’ car, the new One and a Quarter Litre provides higher standards of performance.”

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The model we’re looking at here is the YA, which was the first version to be offered. A four-door saloon, the body was basically that of a Morris Eight Series E, but with visual changes to the rear and to the wings. It sat on independent front suspension, which was cutting-edge for the era, even with the eight year production delay. Other cutting-edge technology included the ‘Jackall System’ – four hydraulic rams (two at the front, two at the rear) that could be activated to lift the car in the event of needing to change a wheel. So just like a modern day BTCC car. But in 1950. 

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This particular car is in outstanding condition, having been completely restored. The ‘Jackall System’ is in working order, as well. The 1,250cc four-cylinder engine is still in place and has covered just 1,500 miles since restoration. In fact, the restoration was carried out over a period of five years, meaning no nut or bolt has been missed. What you’re looking at here is as close to a new MGYA as you’re ever going to get. It’s even got extras, such as a stainless exhaust system.

This is a wonderful British classic, and one that should be cherished. Handsome, reliable and in perfect condition, British classics don’t get much better than this, especially for a mere £16,000.

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