autofantasia's photos with the keyword: ZA

The Magnette ZA, seen in the background, cost £915 when launched in 1952 and unleashed an outcry among M.G. enthusiasts. The re-use of the glorious Magnette name on a family saloon with Wolseley bodywork, an Austin engine and a dummy radiator was not the sort of thing they had come to expect from M.G. Nonetheless, the M.G. is no Wolseley copy. In order to emphasise the sporty character of the M.G. in contrast to the sedate but luxurious Wolseley the bodwork was made two inches lower, which not only looks more sporty but assures better handling. The TC Midget on the other hand, seen in the foreground was the first postwar MG and launched in 1945. It was exported to the United States, even though only ever built in right-hand drive. The export version had slightly smaller US specification sealed-beam headlights and larger twin rear lights, as well as turn signals and chrome-plated front and rear bumpers. It only cost £527 on the home market in 1947 ... try getting one for that today!