Registration - 522 XVC

Chassis No. - KATU1334407

M.O.T. - March 2025

Odometer - 99,756

A beautiful post-war saloon, and representing a rewarding project, this example of MG’s Magnette ZB is offered at now reserve. Presented in pale green over green, ‘522 XVC’ is driven by MG’s 1.5-litre B-Series engine, and four-speed manual transmission. Although in need of some recommissioning throughout, the engine is described as not running, though will respond to a jump start and work, according to the vendor. As such, ‘522 XVC’ comes with a new dynamo.

Having only five former keepers from new according to the V5C, this MG is considered in ‘average’ condition throughout. This covers the engine and transmission, as well as the bodywork, paint, electrics, and interior. The bodywork will need some attention from the eventual buyer, as will the upholstery inside. The odometer displays an indicated 99,756 miles, and although there’s no MOT, it is old enough to be MOT exempt. A folder of paperwork documents the Magnette’s history, including owner’s manual, a complete set of MOT certificates from 1970-2005, then 2007-2009, and a final 2018 certificate. It is offered with spare keys too, but has lost its original ’5610 E’ registration, and the present ‘522 XVC’ it wears is non-transferrable.

· Desirable MG Magnette ZB saloon

· Ideal project car

· Sought-after specification

MG reintroduced the Magnette name - previously seen between 1932-34 - on its new large family saloon in 1953, replacing the YB. Featuring modern styling, the Magnette ZA was the first monocoque MG to be produced, and came with a new B-Series engine and four-speed manual, with synchromesh on the top three ratios. Replaced by the Magnette ZB in 1956, MG had increased power from the same engine, and also featured a semi-automatic ‘Manumatic’ transmission as an option. Two-tone paint was also available, and production ran until 1958, with more than 18,000 ZBs built, before the Magnette was revived again in 1959 with the Mark III.