1957 MG Magnette Varitone Sports Saloon

• Professionally restored by Moto-Build in 2011 (bills and photographs available)
• Original colour scheme
• 1,800cc MGB engine, five-speed gearbox, disc brakes all round
• Present enthusiast ownership since 2016

The first new MG of the BMC era - the Z-Series Magnette - shared its unitary construction bodyshell - MG's first - with the Wolseley 4/44. The latter had debuted in 1952 powered by the old XPAG 1,250cc engine, but the Magnette, which premiered the following year at the London Motor Show, came with Austin's 1,489cc B-Series motor installed. Towards the end of 1956 the Magnette was upgraded as the 'ZB', gaining a more powerful engine and - in the range-topping Varitone version's case - a wraparound rear window and two-tone paintwork; top speed rose to 90mph, making it the UK's fastest 1½-litre saloon.

This ZB-model MG Magnette was sold new by W Brindley (Garages) Ltd of Codsall, Staffordshire to a Mrs M Smith of Tittenhall, Staffordshire, while according to a small plaque on the dashboard it was at one time sold by George Ace Ltd of Tenby, South Wales.

Later in life the car's original engine was replaced with an 1,800cc MGB unit breathing via twin SU carburettors. Other useful upgrades include a five-speed gearbox, inertia reel seatbelts, stainless steel exhaust system, electronic ignition and disc brakes all round, making the Magnette faster, safer and more economical.

In 2011 the MG was restored both inside and out and resprayed in its original colours, the aforementioned engine, gearbox and braking modifications being carried out by Moto-Build Ltd of Egham, Surrey for a Mr P Froggatt of Somerset. At some time, believed during Mr Froggatt's ownership, the car was modified for regular use in France, receiving 'continental' headlights.

In 2015 Mr Froggatt sold the MG back to Moto-Build and it was driven back to Egham from 'somewhere in the Charente'. The current vendor purchased 'UUK 287' - known affectionately as Megan - in March 2016, since when the Magnette has been kept in a snug, secure garage, enjoying occasional jaunts around East Anglia attending classic car shows. The MG has twice returned to France, on the first occasion touring the vineyards of the Champagne region and the city walls of Laon; while the second visit saw the Magnette travel to Angoulême for the annual 'Tour des Ramparts' race meeting via Le Mans. The return leg took in the Loire Valley and Caen in Normandy.

Finished in two-tone cream (ivory) over black with beige leather and natural wood interior trim, this obviously much loved and well cared for Magnette is offered with an extensive history file, a reproduction owner's handbook, and a V5C Registration Certificate.