MG Magnette ZA
The MG Magnette ZA holds an important place in British motoring history as the first car to use BMC's B-Series engine, which would go on to power millions of vehicles including the MGA, MGB, Austin-Healey Sprite, and countless BMC saloons. When it was launched at the 1953 London Motor Show, the Magnette represented MG's attempt to combine its sporting heritage with the practicality of a four-door saloon.
The Magnette revived a famous MG name — the pre-war Magnettes had been successful racing and sports cars. The post-war ZA was a very different proposition, designed by Gerald Palmer as a monocoque saloon rather than a body-on-frame sports car, but it retained enough sporting character to justify the badge.
The 1,489 cc B-Series engine, fitted with twin SU carburetors, produced 60 bhp in the ZA — modest by modern standards but sufficient to give the lightweight Magnette a lively character. The engine was smooth, willing to rev, and responded well to tuning. Combined with the precise four-speed gearbox, rack-and-pinion steering (unusual for a saloon car of this era), and well-judged suspension, the Magnette was genuinely enjoyable to drive.
The body, styled by Gerald Palmer with Nuffield Organisation input, was attractive in a restrained, elegant way. The flowing wings, chrome grille, and neat proportions gave it a more sporting appearance than its Austin and Morris siblings. The interior featured leather seats, a wooden dashboard with comprehensive instrumentation, and a general air of quality that belied its modest price.
The ZA was succeeded by the ZB in 1956, which received a more powerful 68 bhp engine, larger rear window, and other detail improvements. Together, the ZA and ZB Magnettes sold well — over 36,000 units — proving that there was a market for a car with MG's sporting credentials in a practical four-door package.
The Magnette remains an affordable and practical classic, offering genuine MG ownership at modest cost. Its combination of usable performance, decent accommodation, and understated charm make it an appealing alternative to the more common and more expensive MG sports cars.
The B-Series engine is one of the best-supported classic car engines, with parts widely and cheaply available. The monocoque body is the main concern — rust affects the sills, floor pans, front inner wings, door bottoms, and boot floor. A solid shell is essential, as body repairs can exceed the car's value. The gearbox and rear axle are robust. Interior trim (leather, wood) is available from specialists. The rack-and-pinion steering gives a good driving experience but can develop wear. These are affordable classics with a strong support network through the MG Car Club.
MG Magnette ZA production: approximately 12,754 units (1953-1956). ZB production: approximately 23,847 units (1956-1959). Total ZA/ZB: 36,601 units. The ZA was the first car to use the BMC B-Series engine. The ZB received a more powerful version with 68 bhp and detail improvements. A Varitone version of the ZB offered a two-tone colour scheme and larger rear window.