Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

52classic · Joined: 02 Oct 2008 Posts: 493 Location: Cardiff.

Wasn't looking for another project but a recent mooching session produced the inevitable result. An MG ZA unfinished project. Most of the work is done and looks to be of a very good standard just needs assembling and sorting out.

I say I'm 'deciding' but my mind is made up really! Just wondered what you think of them.

My thoughts are to repaint BRG, probably Connaught Green, wood rim Mota Lita, slightly widened wheels etc., but keep the mechanical bits standard - the original engine is just too sweet to swap.

Most library pics seem to show black or grey engine bay regardless of body colour. Is that correct?

Ray White · Joined: 02 Dec 2014 Posts: 7106 Location: Derby

My first worry with these Gerald Palmer designed cars would be rust. Rust, rust, rust!

If you have found a sound example then great. Go for it.

All I can say is that they were lovely looking cars in their day and people I know who have owned them have fond memories.

kevin2306 · Posted: Fri May 08, 2015 3:07 pm Post subject:

Yeah go for it, there was a nice one for sale a while back in beaulieu garage, that had been prepped for long distance rallies.
Solid examples are a very good and attractive motor.

Kev

Rick · Site Admin Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22784 Location: UK

Agreed, I think a good one would be a fine car to own.

RJ
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Ashley · Joined: 02 Jan 2008 Posts: 1426 Location: Near Stroud, Glos

I had a ZB Varitone once, it was nice to drive, but gutless with an exhaust that, like the Morris Minor, droned at about 60mph (cruising speed) and it did 20mpg.

I'd certainly buy it because they're rather lovely, but long term I'd try and find an MGB engine and gearbox to fit because they're too heavy for less than 60bhp.

Rick · Site Admin Joined: 27 Apr 2005 Posts: 22784 Location: UK

kevin2306 · Posted: Fri May 08, 2015 4:48 pm Post subject:

The one I saw at the Beaulieu Garage had a 5 speed box fitted.

Kev

Penguin45 · Joined: 28 Jul 2014 Posts: 384 Location: Padiham

ukdave2002 · Joined: 23 Nov 2007 Posts: 4236 Location: South Cheshire

mikeC · Posted: Fri May 08, 2015 9:58 pm Post subject:

Ray White · Joined: 02 Dec 2014 Posts: 7106 Location: Derby

Perhaps it was marketed as a sports saloon but the MGA had the more sporting image.

lowdrag · Joined: 10 Apr 2009 Posts: 1600 Location: Le Mans

I've always loved them since Dad bought one back in the fifties. However, I have been thinking for some time of building a "restomod" version, putting in a Rover V8 with five speed manual, aircon, power steering, longer axle ratio and creating a lovely four-seater gentleman's cruiser with the ability to munch the miles in comfort. I'm not getting any younger, rheumatism in the hands would require the power steering, but it would be a superb car. What say you?

kevin2306 · Posted: Sun May 10, 2015 5:12 pm Post subject:

Penguin45 · Joined: 28 Jul 2014 Posts: 384 Location: Padiham

This might interest you - MG MAGNETTE COUPE. Having got the V8 into it, the garage burnt down, so Vince started again and made it into a two door. Like you do, I suppose. Amazing piece of work.

P45.
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Penman · Joined: 23 Nov 2007 Posts: 4857 Location: Swindon, Wilts.

Hi
That coupe looks very like the ones "Wacky Arnolt" commissioned from Bertone, though according to Wiki his were based on a TD chassis and used the XPAG engine.
http://tinyurl.com/nwu7qtr
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