Lot details
Registration No: OPD 293
Chassis No: K2015
Mot Expiry: March 2009

Announced at the October 1932 London Motor Show, the MG K-series Magnette range was born of Cecil Kimber's desire to extend his racing and record breaking activities into Class G (1100cc). Derived from that of the preceding F-series Magna, the newcomer's ladder frame chassis was appreciably wider and stronger with a 4ft 0in track and choice of 9ft 0in (four-seater) or 7ft 10in (two-seater) wheelbases. Featuring all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, Hartford friction-type shock absorbers, lightweight 'Electron' alloy brake drums and a patented kickback-minimising divided trackrod steering system, the K-series cars were initially powered by a 1086cc (later 1271cc) SOHC straight-six engine allied to either four-speed pre-selector or four-speed manual transmission.

While even the humblest Magnette could supposedly reach 75mph, the supercharged versions were good for well over 100mph. Arguably, too close in specification and price terms to the racing K3, the sportscar K2 accounted for just 20 sales (versus 33 for its more glamorous sibling). Although, the K3 boasted an additional gearbox cross brace and better brakes, the two models otherwise shared a near identical chassis layout as well as the shorter 7ft 10in wheelbase. Indeed, the main difference was seemingly the absence or presence of a supercharger. However, not very K3 was 'blown' and the factory modified at least one K2 for forced induction. Admittedly not as impressive as that of the K3, the K2 nonetheless amassed its own period competition pedigree including appearances at various club races and on the RAC Rally etc.

According to information kindly supplied by the vendor, this particular example - chassis number K2015 - was supplied new via University Motors to Miss Moreton Robinson of 78 South Audley Street, London W1 on 15th January 1934. A normally aspirated 1100cc car, the MG was apparently in the possession of a Mr Ron Hedges some five years later who complained about its poor performance on a holiday to Cornwall. How healthy the original engine was at that point is unknown but by circa 1949 the two-seater is understood to have been fitted with a Ford / Mercury 'flathead' V8. Then belonging to a Mr D.A. Stump, it was raced as the DAS Special and managed a terminal speed of 92.4mph at the Brighton Speed Trials. Changing hands several times thereafter, the K2 was bought by a Mr Soo of Cheltenham during the late 1970s.

He in turn sold it to Mr Peter Warne around 1980. A dedicated MG enthusiast, Warne restored K2015 using a K-series 1100cc engine, Volumex supercharger and Wilson four-speed pre-selector gearbox. Judged to have retained much of its original bodywork, the car was repainted black during the initial refurbishment. While, a later change of heart saw it adopt the current dark green livery. Participating in various events both at home and abroad including trips to the Klausen hill climb and Angouleme circuit, K2015 remained with Warne until 2000 when it entered the current family ownership. Treated to a new hood last year which has yet to be tried out, the two-seater is described by the vendor as being in "good overall" condition. Though, he notes that the Ki-Gas pump is disconnected. Only being offered for sale due to bereavement, this ultra-rare MG is accompanied by sundry paperwork and MOT certificate valid until March 2009.