MG Magnette ZB

MG Magnette ZB

Specs Mentioned:

Make/ Model – MG Magnette ZB (1958)

Engine – 1489cc, in-line 4-cylinder 

Power – 60bhp

Top speed – 80mph

0-60mph – 23.1 seconds

The MG Magnette is a significant monocoque bodied sedan for the marque. Launched at the 1953 London Motor Show, the Magnette ZA was replaced with an improved Magnette ZB in October 1956 beautifully designed by Gerald Palmer. A well-mannered sports saloon equipped with independent front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and hydraulic drum brakes, powered by a 1.5-litre B-Series engine allied to four-speed manual transmission and was an accomplished sports saloon with peppy performance and good handling which included a Varitone derivative complete with enlarged rear window and two-tone livery. The ZB series Magnette was made from 1956 to 1958. 

The car featured here holds a special significance to the Akbarally family. It was bought by Abbas Akbarally in 1959 from Michael Robertson, a planter on Oliphant Estate in Nuwareliya. It was then sold in 1969 to raise capital to start the family business and bought back again in 1999 and completely restored.