Description
The car
This MG NA Magnette, chassis MG3179, was built in 1996 using components sourced from the renowned MG collector and businessman Peter Green. Among these components were the chassis and axles from MG N0257, as well as Peter’s brand-new 1100cc engine, originally fitted in his personal K3 chassis #3011 for a contemporary speed record attempt.
The buyer of these components, Colin Alderman, had aspirations of racing. Despite his best efforts, acquiring an original K3 proved elusive, so he entrusted Mike Alison of CRG Engineering to construct the car. The workshop, a hub for vintage car enthusiasts, was also home to a body frame maker, panel beater, and exhaust fabricator.
The body was crafted to be lightweight yet strong, offering generous legroom and practical luggage space behind the seats for touring. It also features a long-range fuel tank with twin fillers, perfect for extended trips.
From 1998, MG3179 was campaigned in numerous events, including VSCC meetings and Triple M MG Live events at Silverstone.
In 2001, Peter Green managed to source an original K3 for Colin, leading to the sale of MG3179 to Mr. Price-Tidd, who retained MG31279 until 2022 when it was purchased by our client. Due to a house move and limited garage space, MG3179 is now reluctantly being offered for sale.
Mechanics
A review of the engine block reveals no visible engine number, suggesting it is likely a replacement. It is finished in Bayton Jones colors, and records confirm it features a Phoenix billet counter-balanced crankshaft, forged con-rods, and Cosworth racing pistons. A VSCC-approved Volumex supercharger is paired with a 1¾" SU carburettor, while a six-branch external exhaust feeds into a Brooklands-style silencer with a fishtail tip.
The transmission consists of an Armstrong pre-selector gearbox, a 4. 55:1-ratio differential, and strengthened N-Type half-shafts and rear hubs. The car is fitted with larger 13" hydraulic brakes for improved stopping power.
My Thoughts
This is a highly practical and wonderfully sonorous NA special, running on Castrol R. The slab-tank body design is not only more practical but offers ample luggage space behind the seats, with enough room for race gear and an overnight bag—ideal if you're considering a bit of competition. The engine’s high-spec components make the car suitable for both racing and longer endurance rallies.
