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 August 1953, this particular YB was acquired by the vendor about four years ago after some 30 years in storage. A qualified engineer, he immediately set about a thorough restoration which was to take some two years to complete. Although the car was in remarkably sound condition and needed very little attention to either metalwork or interior, it was missing its engine so the decision was made to fit a later MGB engine, gearbox and back axle – all freshly rebuilt for the purpose.

The suspension and brakes were also uprated to cope with the increased performance, along with a new clutch and a custom-made stainless steel twin exhaust system. Additional dash instruments have also been fitted including a rev counter and oil pressure gauge with appropriate octagonal surrounds. Flashing indicators have also been discreetly fitted front and rear.

The green leather interior is original and responded beautifully to a couple of weeks of gentle cleaning and feeding. The paintwork was renewed in complementary green and cream. New chrome and slightly wider wheels and tyres finish off what is a very attractive package.

The car is said to drive beautifully with excellent oil pressure and temperature and will cruise happily at 65mph. We were treated to a very spirited test drive and can confirm that the car goes very well indeed with good ride and handling, excellent brakes and a notably rattle-free ride. Taxed, MOT’d and on the button, this wolf-in-sheep’s clothing will startle other motorists with its pace and is due to be driven some 80 miles to the sale.