MG Magnette MKIV

Replacing the Magnette ZB, one of the finest sports saloons of the ’50s, presented a major challenge. The MKIII that arrived in February ’59 had pleasing lines, twin SU carbs and the classic half-octagon speedometer, but was not greeted with universal praise from the flat-hat brigade.

Two years later, the MG was modified into the MKIV, gaining the 1.6-litre engine, then in May 1968 it became the first Farina to cease production. Jeremy and Judith Carrington’s ’66 Magnette is not only one of the rarest post-war cars to wear the octagon, but also a reminder of how the MKIV was somewhat misjudged. This stylish Farina is not so much an heir to the ZB as a charming touring car in its own right.

The MG’S closest rival, the Vauxhall VX4/90, was for sales managers with Bob Monkhouse smiles and a table at the Berni Inn, while the average Magnette driver might have collected horse brasses when taking time out from the chartered accountancy practice in rural Dorset.