MGs on Patrol

Britain’s most popular sporting marque, MG has emerged as one of a handful of British motoring names to survive into the 21st century. From the quintessential open two-seater MG Midget, through the booming post-war years and the emergence of MG as a provider of sports cars for the world, Jonathan Wood provides an in-depth analysis of the rise and fall of a motoring legend. Examining the various models in detail, the author covers the financial and corporate traumas which afflicted the company, its brief resurgence in 1995 with the release of the MGF and the final sad chapter which saw a British icon sold off to foreign investors. As production begins again at the Longbridge factory after a three-year hiatus, this is an informative and at times touching glimpse into the history of one of the world’s most recognisable sports cars.

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.

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.