This MG Has A Big Heart
By Patrick Mennem
A compact car with big car comfort and performance. That’s the MG 1100, the latest model – announced today – from the British Motor Corporation.
The new MG, a blood brother of the Morris 1100, is designed to give up to the minute sports saloon motoring to the man of modest means. Like the Morris 1100, it has front wheel drive. It is the same size – 13 feet long and 5 feet wide. The only difference in outward appearance is the traditional MG radiator.
But the 1098cc engine has twin carburettors and a different inlet system, giving 55 brake horsepower and a top speed of 85mph. The MG 1100 will cruise at 75 mph, say the makers, and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than twenty seconds. Fuel consumption is said to be between 32-38mpg.
‘Hydrolastic’ water and rubber suspension, connected fore and aft, gives a floating ride on almost any road surface. Disc brakes are fitted to the front wheels.
The cost : Two door model £758. Four door £812.
Both prices include purchase tax.
Is the Editor of the Parkers website and price guide, formerly editor of Classic Car Weekly, and launch editor/creator of Modern Classics magazine. Has contributed to various motoring titles including Octane, Practical Classics, Evo, Honest John, CAR magazine, Autocar, Pistonheads, Diesel Car, Practical Performance Car, Performance French Car, Car Mechanics, Jaguar World Monthly, MG Enthusiast, Modern MINI, Practical Classics, Fifth Gear Website, Radio 4, and the the Motoring Independent...
Likes 'conditionally challenged' motors and taking them on unfeasible adventures all across Europe.
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An MG1100 with two tone paint and twin carbs… those were the days!
A sports saloon that can do 0-60 in less than 20 seconds – ah the good old days.
At least the roads were less congested then Paul and most other cars in its class would have similar performance. Must be showing my age now but I found new car launches more interesting back in the 60s & 70s.
As I say to friends & colleagues “They were the good old days, but we didn’t realise it then”
I must book a testdrive these are just what they need to kick-start sales, a small stylish sporty saloon, well done MG.