MG Sports Cars: Illustrated History Books & Guides

MG Cars 1930 to 2006 - A Pictorial History

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This illustrated book offers a complete history of all MG cars produced from 1930 until 2006, the year the Rover Group collapsed. It serves as a reliable reference for comparing various MG models, including the Magnette, MGA, Midget, Maestro, and others.

Aimed at enthusiasts of post-war British cars, the book includes many original line drawings and both black-and-white and colour photographs from the period. It covers all production models, including sports versions, special editions, vans, estates, and coupes. Motorsport achievements, as well as appearances in film and television, are also documented.

Throughout the book, original factory advertising slogans are reproduced, adding period character. In addition to the historical overview, it includes key technical data, changes during production, and build numbers to provide a complete picture of each model's development.

Pages of the book "MG Cars 1930 to 2006 - A Pictorial History"

Product details

Author:	Trevor Alder
Details:	144 pages, 8.25 x 5.7 x 0.39 in (21 x 14.5 x 1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	211 b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2025)
ISBN:	9781836440048

MG Century: 100 Years - Safety Fast!

MG is one of the most iconic names in British motoring history, known for its sports cars that played a major role in popularising European vehicles in postwar America. In the UK, MG cars served both everyday use and competition driving.

The MG story began in the 1920s, with origins tracing back to William Morris's early work in bicycle repair, then motorcycles and cars. In 1907, Morris established Morris Garages, which by the mid-1920s began building cars under the MG name.

Before World War II, MG became known for its Midgets and Magnettes, both on the road and track. The postwar years saw the brand focus on exports, especially to the US, leading to success with models like the MG TC, TD, TF, MGA, MGB, and Midget. MG also offered practical models such as the Magnette and 1100.

Pages of the book "MG Century: 100 Years - Safety Fast!"

Ownership changed several times, including periods under BMC, British Leyland, BMW, and now SAIC (China), producing cars as MG Motor. Notable later models include the MGB GT V8, Metro 6R4 rally car, and MGF. A new electric roadster marks MG's return to its roots.

Written by MG expert David Knowles, this illustrated book provides a concise history of the marque.

Product details

Author:	David Knowles
Details:	240 pages, 12.2 x 9.8 x 1.02 in (31 x 25 x 2.6 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	many b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Motorbooks International (USA, 2024)
ISBN:	9780760383155

Kim: A Biography of M.G. Founder Cecil Kimber

M.G. was founded in the 1920s by Cecil Kimber, known as Kim. Despite physical challenges, Kimber's energy, vision, and determination made him a key figure in the British motor industry.

Starting by fitting sporty bodies on Morris chassis, Kimber quickly established M.G. as Europe's top sports car manufacturer, with a strong record of racing victories.

Though he overcame industrial challenges, Kimber eventually became a victim of the internal politics within M.G.'s parent company. After being dismissed from his prominent role, he was preparing for a comeback when he tragically died in an avoidable accident.
A respected businessman, flawed husband, and imperfect father, Cecil Kimber was a man of many contrasts. This book tells the vibrant story of the man behind the iconic M.G. brand for the first time.

Product details

Author:	Jon Pressnell
Details:	536 pages, 10 x 11.4 x 1.61 in (25.5 x 29 x 4.1 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	750 b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Dalton Watson Fine Books (USA, 2023)
ISBN:	9781956309119

The MG Story 1923-1980

The first MGs were a few cars with special bodywork sold by Morris Garages, but by the 1930s, MG had become the classic British sports car. The brand's rapid growth and success in competitions were driven by a small group of key figures whose dedication and skills shaped its development.

This book provides a detailed history of MG from 1923 to the closure of the Abingdon factory in 1980, once the world's largest sports car manufacturer. It includes in-depth studies of all MG models, biographies of key figures in MG's history, and coverage of the brand's record-breaking and racing achievements.

Pages of the book "The MG Story 1923-1980"

The book features period advertisements, black-and-white archive photos, and modern color images of restored cars. It explores both factory-supported and private racing efforts, highlighting how MG became famous. Covering a wide range of topics, it offers valuable insight into the company's evolution and the enduring appeal of MG cars.

Product details

Author:	Malcolm Green
Details:	416 pages, 11 x 8.5 x 0.98 in (28 x 21.5 x 2.5 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	700+ b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Herridge & Sons Ltd (GB, 2021)
ISBN:	9781906133979

The Complete Book of Classic MG Cars

First produced in Oxford, England, in 1924, MG cars quickly gained popularity for their stylish design, affordability, and enjoyable driving experience. These qualities made MG a global success, especially in the United States.

This book by Ross Alkureishi provides a chronological history of MG models, covering their design, production, and technology. Detailed specification tables highlight key technical and performance data. Hundreds of photographs showcase the cars, including close-ups of engines and interiors.

Originally a small side business, MG became one of the world's most recognized car brands. From prewar saloons to the affordable and sporty two-seaters of the pre- and postwar periods, MG built its reputation on models like the Midgets, Magnettes, and the iconic MGA, MGB, and MGC.

MG changed ownership several times, influencing its designs and production. Alkureishi examines these transitions and their impact, both positive and negative. The book also explores MG's success in motorsports, detailing key races and achievements.
This illustrated history is essential for MG enthusiasts, providing an in-depth look at the brand's evolution, engineering, and racing heritage.

Product details

Author:	Ross Alkureishi
Details:	240 pages, 10.8 x 9.25 in (27.5 x 23.5 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	300 color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Motorbooks International (USA, 2020)
ISBN:	9780760367179

MG - Made in Abingdon : Echoes from the shopfloor

This illustrated book tells the story of MG's rise from a local idea to international fame, putting Abingdon on the map. It highlights the crucial role of the factory team, including workers, engineers, racers, apprentices, and management.
Through personal memories and racing anecdotes, the book reveals the untold history of MG from those who worked at the Abingdon factory, offering both nostalgia and historical significance.

Product details

Author:	Bob Frampton
Details:	160 pages, 8.25 x 5.9 x 0.55 in (21 x 15 x 1.4 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	81 photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2019)
ISBN:	9781787116085

MG's Abingdon Factory

This illustrated book explores the men and women who came from across the country to work in a rural town, building MG cars. The workforce included skilled laborers from struggling areas of England and Wales, along with a few MG employees who relocated from Oxford to Abingdon, a town with a farming background.

Over time, these workers united to create a legendary car - the MG. Featuring 160 photographs of factory life, both during car production and wartime efforts, this book offers valuable insights.

Pages of the book "MG's Abingdon Factory"

Key features:
- Includes rare employee-taken photos from private collections.
- Provides a glimpse into daily factory life.
- Highlights workers' adaptability to change.
- Documents lesser-known wartime contributions.
- Shows how factory life shaped workers' routines.
- Captions reflect in-depth knowledge of the images.
- A significant record of MG's history.
- Details MG's pioneering efforts in meeting EU & USA regulations.
- Shares stories of generations working together.
- Demonstrates Abingdon's potential to remain a leader in sports car manufacturing.

Product details

Author:	Brian Moylan
Details:	96 pages, 7.5 x 8.1 x 0.51 in (19 x 20.5 x 1.3 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	164 b&w and color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2017)
Series:	Those were the days
ISBN:	9781787111158

Making Cars at Longbridge : 1906 to the Present Day

This richly illustrated book offers a detailed history of over 100 years of car manufacturing at the Longbridge factory near Birmingham. Founded by Herbert Austin in 1905, the Austin Motor Company later became part of the British Motor Corporation, British Leyland, Rover Group, and MG Rover. The factory produced iconic British models, including the Austin Seven, Mini, Austin Metro, MG TF, and Rover 75.

From its early days, Longbridge was a key employer and an important part of the local community. However, in April 2005, MG Rover entered administration, marking a significant change for the area and prompting its long-term regeneration. Despite these changes, the community remains proud of its manufacturing heritage and looks to the future with optimism.

This updated edition commemorates both the 110th anniversary of motor production at Longbridge and the 150th birthday of Herbert Austin. It includes a new colour section depicting the car manufacturing process, from design to showroom.

Product details

Author:	Gillian Bardsley, Colin Corke
Details:	192 pages, 9.8 x 6.7 in (25 x 17 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	220 b&w and 8 color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	The History Press Ltd (GB, 2016)
ISBN:	9780750965293

MG

MG, Britain's most popular sports car brand, is one of the few British motoring names to survive into the 21st century. From the classic two-seater MG Midget to its rise in the post-war years, Jonathan Wood offers a detailed look at the history of this iconic brand.

The book explores the development of various MG models and examines the financial and corporate challenges the company faced. It also covers the brief revival of MG in 1995 with the MGF and the eventual sale of the brand to foreign investors.
This book provides a thorough and often emotional account of MG's rise, decline, and legacy as one of the world's most recognizable sports car brands.

Product details

Author:	Jonathan Wood
Details:	56 pages, 8.5 x 4.3 x 0.16 in (21.5 x 11 x 0.4 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	20 b&w and 59 color photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Shire Publications Ltd (GB, 2008)
ISBN:	9780747806745

MG Saloons and Coupes 1925-1980 Photo Archive

While MG is best known for its open two-seaters, founder Cecil Kimber aimed to create cars that combined MG's sporty character with broader appeal. Since 1925, he produced sedans and coupes that offered both strong performance and excellent handling.

In the mid-1930s, MG introduced the SA, VA, and WA models, designed not only as sports cars but also as refined luxury vehicles. It was during this time that Kimber coined the slogan "Grace, Space, and Pace, " long before Jaguar adopted it.

This book features a collection of 145 high-quality archival photographs, including factory publicity images, design drawings, period advertisements, and historical photos. The selection provides a detailed visual history of these unique MG models, starting with "Old Number One."

Product details

Author:	Richard L. Knudson
Details:	128 pages, 8.5 x 10.6 x 0.39 in (21.5 x 27 x 1 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	145 b&w photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Iconografix (USA, 2005)
ISBN:	9781583881446

MG 1945-1964 Photo Archive

The first MG produced after World War II was the TC Midget, introduced in October 1945. This model marked the beginning of MG's success, eventually dominating the North American sports car market.

This book features photographs of classic MG models, including the TC, TD, TF, MGA, Midget, and early MGB. The images capture these cars both on the road and in competition, including iconic events such as Sebring, Le Mans, and record-breaking runs on the Utah salt flats.

Product details

Author:	David A. Knowles
Details:	128 pages, 8.5 x 10.25 x 0.31 in (21.5 x 26 x 0.8 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	many b&w photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Iconografix (USA, 1996)
ISBN:	9781882256525

MG (1929-1939) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book featuring MG models from the years 1929-1939. Describes the MG 18/80, M, C, P (various models), J (various models), F, L, K tourer and racer, N, SVW and T-Types.

• The 89 period articles, brought together from leading British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and engineering.
• Also driving impressions, original road tests, comparison tests, technical data, etc.

More information about Brooklands Portfolio books

Product details

Details:	180 pages, 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.47 in (27 x 20 x 1.2 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	450 photos
Language:	English
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1993)
Series:	Gold Portfolio
ISBN:	9781855201941

MG Sports Cars (1949-1961) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book featuring MG models from the years 1949-1961. Describes the MG M, 18/80, 18/100, Miles Spl, K3 Magnette, TC, TD, TF, Supercharged, 1500, MGA, Coupé, Judson, Twin Cam, 1600 and Mk II.

• The articles, published at the time in the American car magazine Road & Track, provide much information about history, model changes and engineering.
• Also technical data, driving impressions, original road tests, comparison tests, etc.

More information about Brooklands Portfolio books

Product details

Author:	Road & Track
Details:	100 pages, 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.24 in (27 x 20 x 0.6 cm), paperback
Illustrations:	200 photos and drawings
Language:	English
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1985)
Series:	Road & Track Portfolio
ISBN:	9780946489398

MG - L'excellence britannique

Since the founding of Morris Garages and the registration of the octagonal badge in 1924, MG has produced high-performance cars, from pre-war sports models to the popular MGA, B, and C of the 1960s and 1970s. Despite multiple ownership changes, the brand has continued to evolve and innovate.
Today, MG Motor offers premium models, including the highly anticipated Cyberster roadster.

Renowned MG expert David Knowles explores this history through rare archive materials, stunning contemporary photos, and period catalogs.

Product details

Author:	David Knowles
Details:	240 pages, 12.4 x 10 x 1.02 in (31.5 x 25.5 x 2.6 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	380 b&w and color photos
Language:	French
Publisher:	Sophia Éditions (F, 2024)
ISBN:	9782385140724

MG - Tous les modèles depuis 1924

Since production began in Oxford in 1924, MG cars have stood out for their distinctive style. Elegant, affordable, and sporty, they have won over millions of enthusiasts worldwide.

This book traces the complete history of all MG models, from early pre-war saloons like the 14/28 and 14/40 to the RV8. It also covers the iconic Midget, Magnette, Type T, MGA, MGB, and MGC. The brand's evolution is presented chronologically, with technical specifications and performance data.
MG's achievements in motorsport are also highlighted, showcasing its impact on racing history.

"MG, tous les modèles depuis 1924" is a reference guide that details each model's history, design, production, technology, and performance.

Product details

Author:	Ross Alkureishi
Details:	240 pages, 10.8 x 9.25 in (27.5 x 23.5 cm), hardback
Illustrations:	300 b&w and color photos
Language:	French
Publisher:	ETAI (F, 2021)
ISBN:	9791028304775