Lot 016: MG YB Saloon

The prototype MG Y was constructed in 1939 for display at that year's Earls Court Motor Show but, unfortunately, a little local difficulty with the Germans meant that it didn't actually go on sale until 1947. MG billed it as: A brilliant new member of the famous MG breed that perpetuates the outstanding characteristics of its successful predecessors  virile acceleration, remarkable road manners, instant response to controls and superb braking." Styled by Gerald Palmer, it was effectively an adaptation of the Morris Eight Series E bodyshell with re-styled front and rear ends more in keeping with the traditional MG image. It also kept a separate chassis but modernity was allowed a look in with the adoption of independent front suspension, one of the first British production cars to have this feature.Power came from a single carb 46bhp version of the 1,250cc XPAG engine that powered the contemporary T-series of MG sportscars, giving the car more spritely performance than rival saloons with a top speed of over 70mph. The interior was well above average with lashings of leather and woodwork and classy octagonal instruments.In 1952 the car was re-launched as the YB with improved suspension, a completely new Lockheed braking system and a much more modern hypoid bevel back axle. The YB sold in steady numbers until the long awaited MG Magnette ZA arrived in 1953 to replace it, by which time just 1,301 examples of this charming sports saloon had been made.First registered in December 1952, this car is said to be totally original and unrestored. Said to run well and certainly starting up quickly and idling very smoothly on the occasion of our visit, it has just been treated to new suspension bushes, brake pipes and front tyres to get it through the MOT. With that hurdle under its belt, it will now need some precautionary recommissioning to prepare it for regular use, as it had previously been stored for many years. Altogether a nice little project that should amply reward the titivation that is now required.