MGs on Patrol

The MGB was the most successful British sports car of all time, selling more than half a million examples over a production life of eighteen years. It has always represented fun driving at realistic prices, and remains well within reach of the average motorist today. The complete story of the B is set firmly in the context of the MG company’s eventful history, and there are new insights into the personalities and politics behind the development of Britain’s most popular sports car. Contains numerous specially-commissioned photographs, technical analyses, driving impressions and practical information on buying and owning a MGB.

A comprehensive following of 50 years of the history and character of the model from pre-production concepts and prototypes through modern day activities. This includes many stories of special cars and special people and the way the cars have been used (and abused) over the decades. At times the cars were near orphans with low value, so it is a wonder how so many MGAs have survived, and are still with us today. The book pays tribute to the unique character of this particular model and the reasons why people find them so endearing. It covers variants and modified cars, the motorsport efforts of works cars and privateers, a myriad of speed records and competition titles, and distribution of the cars around the world.

This second edition of Gerald Palmer’s autobiography is published five years after his death in 1999 and Christopher Balfour, who collaborated with Gerald on the first edition, has taken the opportunity to review the impact this talented car designer had on the motor industry and to include some photographs that were not used in the first book

Here, from the memories of many men and women, is an intimate account of what it was like to work in MG’s Abingdon factory.

From tea trolley to production line and from apprentice to manager, this book includes memorable events, romance, tragedy, humour, motorsport, and the lead up to factory closure.

MG was a home-grown concept that became an international success, bringing the small market town of Abingdon onto the global map. MG – Made in Abingdon recounts the inside story of the famous factory, recognising that the most important aspect of MG’s success was its team – the tea-boys and girls, the shop floor workers, the engineers and racers, the apprentices and management. From memories of the production line to recollections of racing incidents, the untold story of MG from the men and women who worked in the Abingdon factory is revealed for the first time in a book that is both nostalgic and historically important.

Period Covered:
1929-1980