Lot 426: 1953 MG YB

After the Second World War, the British government instilled into industry the maxim 'Export or die'. This task was made difficult by the lack of raw materials such as rationed steel and more importantly, no new designs to offer, with post war production picking up where production had left off in the late 1930's. The MG Motor Car co. returned to the production of small sports cars and for those wishing a more 'practical' car, they offered the MG Y-Type saloon which carried the more sporting models pedigree under a more functional saloon body. The Y had a single carburettor version of the TC engine in a box section frame with independent front suspension with coil springs and wishbones. Top speed was 70 mph but the tuning available to TC owners could also be applied to the Y. The YB was upgraded with improved brakes and a hypoid rear axle. This Y type has benefited from an engine rebuild in 1997: the engine was removed, completely stripped and inspected with the block bored to a capacity of 1350cc, the cylinder head was ported on the inlets and exhausts to improve gas flow and unleaded seats were installed along with new valves and guides to enable the engine to run on lead free petrol. Further work was also carried out and is all detailed in the car's folder. It is also complete with V5C registration document and old MoTs and is described as being in fair to good condition by the owner. The walnut dashboard is in sound condition with the interior leather showing to show its age. The drive is spirited for a car of this age with the traficators working perfectly assuming you only want to turn right.