1936 MG N-Type

Between 1929 and 1936, MGs range of Triple-M (Midget, Magna, Magnette) sportscars established the tiny English marque as a significant force in international motorsport. In particular, the exotic and powerful overhead-cam inline-six engine, which propelled the K3 Magnette to legendary victories in the Mille Miglia, RAC Tourist Trophy, and the Le Mans Index of Performance, cemented MGs legacy.

The N-Type of 1934-1936 arrived with a refined version of the 1,271 c.c. six-cylinder engine that previously powered the K-Type, but with a revised block and head design that unleased about 25% more power in road trim. It also got a new, more sophisticated outrigger-type chassis, with rubber body mountings to improve passenger comfort. Lively and enjoyable handling came via a wider track and revised friction dampers.

For 1935, the NA evolved into the revised NB. Buyers had a choice of beautiful deco-inspired body styles, with the most popular being two-seat roadsters and four-seat tourers, but a lucky few customers opted for the very special, and very pretty, Airline coupe. Penned by H.W. Allingham, an experienced industry professional, the streamlined Airline coupe featured cathedral style light panels built into the sliding sunroof and a gracefully tapered tail panel incorporating a neatly enclosed spare wheel, which set beautifully against the flowing fender lines. While officially marketed by Allingham, the bodies were constructed by both the Coventry-based firm Carbodies and by Whittingham & Mitchell of London. A mere 51 Airline coupes were fitted to MG chassis (most to the four-cylinder PA and PB series) and it is reported that just seven six-cylinder cars got the Airline treatment six NA chassis, and just a single NB the car offered here.

Chassis 0848 is a 1936 NB, believed to be the only NB fitted with Airline coachwork, and one of just three N-Type Airline Coupes known to survive. This car has been in the care of several marque devotees with known history dating back to the early 1970s. A letter on file dated July 12, 1971, reveals the car was in the possession of UK-based MG specialists, Terry and Barry Bone. Terry reported the car was a sound, original example needing a light restoration, offering it to Mr. Reed H. Yates of Georgia for 950. Yates bought the car, brought it stateside, and had it freshened in a two-tone red livery, which he completed in 1975. In 1978, Yates sold the car to Mr. David Lawley of Ontario, Canada, who eventually had it stripped to bare metal and refinished in duotone green, completed in 1990.

Around 2000, noted MG enthusiast and collector Gene Ponder acquired the car from Lawley. Ever the perfectionist, Mr. Ponder commissioned a comprehensive restoration, refinishing the car in his signature red and black livery, which looks particularly smart on the sporting, streamlined Airline. The interior was re-trimmed to match in red and black leather, maroon carpets, and a tan mohair headlining. Following the dispersal of Ponders collection, 0848 was acquired by Mr. Oldenburg, who had long coveted the car even before it was in Ponders possession. In early 2013, the MG Airline joined a significant private collection of Art Deco-era automobiles, where it has remained since.

Following more than twelve years out of the spotlight, this exceptionally rare MG remains in beautiful condition, the older restoration having aged gently thanks to expert care and minimal use. It is rich with appealing details, from the multiple octagon-themed touches to the glass-paneled sliding roof. The cabin is richly appointed in leather and wool, a wood instrument panel, and Bluemels Brooklands steering wheel. The beautiful Borrani wheels were sourced by Mr. Ponder at considerable expense, and it was updated with more predictable hydraulic brakes during Oldenbergs tenure. Recently, it has received minor recommissioning to prepare it for sale, though additional attention may be needed before embarking on tour.

Jewel-like in the quality its appointments and engineering, the NB Airlines 1,271cc inline-six, delightfully tactile gearbox, and direct steering combine for an evocative driving experience that is the pure essence of pre-war British sports motoring, wrapped in a stunningly beautiful body boasting one of one status.

Offers welcome and trades considered