MG SA Saloon

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Launched in 1936 as the MG 2-Litre, this sporting saloon only later became known as the SA and was originally planned as a rival to the likes of SS Cars (later Jaguar) and even Bentley.

Originally envisaged with all-independent suspension and given the factory code of EX150 and designated the S-Type, a prototype was made but then development stopped after the amalgamation of MG with Morris Motors in 1935. The Cowley drawing office picked up the project again but a much more conservative car finally appeared with conventional live rear and beam front axles.

The car used a tuned version of the six-cylinder Morris QPHG engine which it shared with the Wolseley Super Six but enlarged to 2,288cc. The capacity was increased again to 2,322cc in 1937 bringing it into line with the Wolsley 18 and endowing it with a top speed of 80mph. This was a tall engine and to allow the bonnet line to be as low as possible, the twin SU carburettors had their dashpots mounted horizontally.

Drive was to the live rear axle via a four-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh on the top two ratios. Wire wheels were fitted and the drum brakes were hydraulically operated using a Lockheed system. A built in jacking system was fitted to the chassis.

The saloon body, the only option available at the time of the car's launch, was made in-house by Morris and was a spacious four-door with traditional MG grille flanked by two large chrome plated headlights. The spare wheel was carried on the boot lid.

Inside there were individual seats in front and a bench seat at the rear, all with leather covering. Much use was made of walnut for the dashboard and other trim items. Of the 2,739 cars made until production ceased in 1939, 350 were exported with Germany proving the best market.

At the time of cataloguing, we hadn’t been able to inspect this super barn discovery. It was purchased by the vendor in 1960 and appears to have last been taxed in 1984. It looks to be pretty well complete and has been dry stored for all of these years.

The registration number GOJ 2 has lapsed, the necessary forms having already been submitted to the DVLA so it is hoped that this number will have been reunited with car by the time of sale, although if this is the case it will be non-transferable. 

CATALOGUE AMENDMENT: Please note the number is COJ 2 and not GOJ 2 as catalougued.