1935 MG PA Midget

This is arguably the most famous prewar MG in America. Originally one of three in Captain George Eyston's 'Dancing Daughters' female class-winning team for LeMans in 1935, its engine was subsequently updated to 939-cc PB specification and then sold by the factory to American sports car racer Miles Collier. The Collier brothers began competing with their friends on the driveways of Overlook, the Collier estate in Pocantico Hills, NY. From these teenage events, the Automobile Racing Club of America was born. This car was a regular on the ARCA circuit, where it raced unscathed despite Miles' spirited driving style. In 1937, however, a shunt with a New York taxi destroyed the bodywork. Seeing an opportunity to make a contender for overall victories, Miles had ARCA enthusiast John Oliveau design the aerodynamic body you see here. In 1939, in this car, Miles became the first American in a decade to race at LeMans, retiring at the eight-hour mark with a ruptured fuel tank. Miles' last victory in this car was at Bridgehampton in 1950, four years prior to his death.

Historical notes courtesy of The Collier Collection