1937 MG TA Roadster

During the 1930s, trialing or 'mud plugging' (as it was known) was a popular sport for both factory-prepared cars and private individuals. Cars had to travel a prescribed course taking them to various venues throughout the countryside that tested both driver and car while tackling steep and muddy hill climbs. The further that drivers made it up the hill, the more points they received. The combination of points from the hill climbs and the timed speed distance trials determined the winner.

This particular car was a factory-supported effort combining the body and chassis of a small TA two-seat roadster (normally fitted with a 1200cc engine) with the 1600cc engine of the larger MG VA tourer. Cycle fenders, double spare tires on 16-inch rims and the brown and cream factory colors known as 'Cream Crackers' completed the transformation. The MG quickly became the fancy of American servicemen stationed in Europe during World War II.