1937 MG SA

The MG SA was introduced in 1935 and was the first all-new model introduced following the company's acquisition by Morris Motors. Compared to the previous models, the SA was considerably larger (a wheelbase size of 123 inches compared to the previous MG KN wheelbase size of 108 inches), as was its engine. While the larger footprint meant larger bodies, more seating, and consequently more luxury, it did create a certain amount of consternation amongst enthusiasts who feared the company was headed down a new path, abandoning the traditional virtues embodied by the marque's nimble legacy. The model, however, would prove capable of both duties; leaning towards the luxury car market while staying true to performance virtues worthy of the octagon badge.

The MG SA used many standardized parts from Wolseley and Morris cars, and its overall length (stretching to 193 inches) was longer than anything being produced by the parent company.

Mechanical Specification
The MA SA was based on the Wolseley Super Six and initially powered by its 2,026cc overhead valve six-cylinder Morris QPHG engine, although enlarged to 2,288cc and eventually to 2,322cc in 1937. Due to the large stature of the engine, the twin SU carburetors dashpots were mounted horizontally. The original Morris-based inline six-cylinder engine was rated at 67 brake horsepower, but with its growth to 2,322cc, output rose to 75 horsepower. Power was sent to the live rear axle via a four-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh on the top two ratios. A few of the early examples did not have synchromesh. Behind the wire wheels were drum brakes that were hydraulically operated by a Lockheed system. The four-wheel Lockheed hydraulic braking system fitted to the SA in 1935 was the first for MG, and a much-needed improvement. The solid front and live rear axle were suspended by semi-elliptic springs and lever-arm hydraulic shock absorbers, and a Jackall hydraulic jacking system was fitted as standard equipment. The chassis lubrication system was accessed via nipples grouped under the bonnet.

Body Style and Design
At the car's introduction, only a saloon body was offered, built in-house by Morris. It wore the traditional MG grille with two large chrome-plated headlights flanking it on either side. At the rear was a spare wheel residing on the boot lid. The interior was more luxurious and comfortable than previous MG models, with a pair of individual front seats and a rear bench seat. Leather was used for all seating surfaced, and trim pieces and the dashboard were made of walnut. A Philco radio was offered as optional equipment.

Additional Coachwork
A Tickford drophead coupe by Salmons and Sons Ltd. became available in April 1936, with the three-position hood (top) allowing owners the choice of fully open, closed, or de Ville style. A winding mechanism was used to open and close the hood, from which originated the term Tickford. (The name would later become associated with the Drophead body style or as the name for the coachbuilder.) The SA Drophead Coupe was bigger than the two-seat Midget and smaller than the four-passenger VA series.

In July, coachbuilders Charlesworth offered a four-door tourer. A small number (approximately nine) of chassis were imported to Switzerland by J.H. Keller's Sportcar of Zurich, to be bodied in a drophead coupe style by Reinbolt and Christé of Basel.

Production
Approximately 2,739 MG SA models were built, with 350 examples exported. Charlesworth tailored attractive open bodies for about 90 SA chassis; Reinbolt and Christé created around nine cabriolets.

The MG SA was a capable touring car fit for a demanding clientele, and its styling and large size allowed it to compete in the marketplace with Lagonda and Jaguar. The coachwork complemented the high-quality mechanical construction and matched its sporty persona.

by Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2023