Lot 017: 1948 MG YA

Introduced in 1947, the Y type saloon was an important car for MG. Boasting an all new welded box-section chassis (later adapted for use on the marque's TD / TF sportscars) its sophisticated coil-and-wishbone independent front suspension was the work of Sir Alec Issigonis and MG draughtsman Jack Daniels. Equipped with rack and pinion steering, a four-speed manual gearbox and hydraulic drum brakes as standard, it was powered by the same 1250cc XPAG four-cylinder engine as the TC Midget sports car. Said to develop some 46bhp and 58.5lbft of torque, the single SU carburettor fed unit reputedly endowed the model with a 71mph top speed. Elegantly understated, the four-door saloon's handsome lines were the work of Gerald Palmer. Benefiting from a well-appointed cabin, the YA remained in production until 1951 (by which time some 6,158 are thought to have been sold). Finished in two-tone green with fawn leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Rumoured to have won various MG concours events following its restoration some ten years ago, the saloon is further understood to have covered approximately 2,500 miles since work was completed. Riding on steel wheels, this charming 1940s saloon is offered for sale with buff logbook, photographic restoration record, MG Car Club Valuation (£15,000 in 1999) and MOT certificate valid until November 2008.