MG 18/80 MkI Saloon
ENGINE 2468cc/6-cyl/OHC POWER 60bhp@3200rpm TORQUE N/A MAXIMUM SPEED 78mph 0-60MPH N/A FUEL CONSUMPTION 16-22mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months on sale ODOMETER 365,067 miles WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
It starts easily, even after having stood for a while, with all the tappets sounding happily even. It drives really well, with a supple ride and no squeaks or clunks. The steering doesn’t wander and the cable brakes bite and pull up well and square; they suffer from fade when descending long hills, but recover quite quickly. Though this is identified as a MkI – lighter with a narrower track
– it uses the MkII’s four-speed gearbox; the two types were made concurrently for a while. First is hard to find, but changes through the intermediates become slicker and quieter as it warms through – with a little practice at double-de-clutching. It does feel as if the clutch needs adjustment, though – the biting point is near the floor. Oil pressure is 35psi at 2000rpm and water temperature never topped 70 degrees. It feels as though it would cruise at 60mph all day.
BODYWORK CHECK
This rare saloon by Carbodies looks splendidly original – even though it was restored almost 30 years ago. Extra work was also carried out about ten years
EXTERIOR
Well-preserved body is a delight
INTERIOR
Plenty of patina – it hasn’t been over-restored
MECHANICALS
Engine is smooth and free from leaks
ago, including a body refresh and a refurbished fuel tank and rear axle. It’s in excellent condition but nicely aged. The doors – now with locks fitted
– fit and close well and the springs are leather-gaitered, with plenty of grease evident around kingpins and nipples. The finned aluminium brake drums were fitted in 2013 and the Firestones have plenty of tread. There are now discreet flashing indicators and the dolphin radiator mascot dates from 1931, when the first owner’s brother was serving on HMS Dolphin.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior has been equally well looked-after; the seat leather and headlining are new but the door trims may be original. The rear roller blind still works and the vanity cubbies in the rear pillars still have a clothes brush on one side and perfume bottle on the other. There are some extras in the boot including a nice Pratts fuel can, some Valvemaster, a warning triangle and a drypowder fire extinguisher.
UNDER THE BONNET
Ron Gammons re-built the engine with high-compression pistons at some point. The motor is clean and tidy, the original brass fuse box is on the bulkhead and the exhaust is well wrapped. The oil is cleanish and to the maximum level.
THE CCW VIEW
Following the Morris-based cars, the 18/80 Six of 1928 was the first real MG with a bespoke chassis and the trademark MG radiator surround. This car is sold with a brochure, two operating manuals, a wiring diagram, a VSCC buff form dated 2000 and a history file. It looks good value, too – there’s a 1930 Speed Model (that was originally a saloon) for sale elsewhere in the UK for £70,000.
PROS 90 years, 365k miles – and ready for more! CONS Clutch is in need of adjustment
BUY IT FROM Arun Holdings, Southlands Industrial Park, Latchford Lane, Oakhanger, Hampshire GU35 9JD. 07790 016214, arunholdings.co.uk