MG Magnette ZA
The first monocoque MG: a refined sports saloon with Italian-inspired flair.
- Power
- 60 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 23.1 s
- Top speed
- 80 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$22k
About the MG Magnette ZA
Launched at the 1953 London Motor Show, the Magnette ZA was a landmark for MG as its first model to feature monocoque construction. Designed by Gerald Palmer, it shared its basic silhouette with the Wolseley 4/44 but sat lower and offered a more sporting character with rack-and-pinion steering and a twin-carburettor B-Series engine. The interior is quintessentially British, featuring a polished wood dashboard and leather upholstery. While not fast by modern standards, its balanced handling and elegant fastback styling made it one of the most respected sports saloons of the 1950s.
MG Magnette ZA specs
The MG Magnette ZA produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 103 Nm (76 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 23.1 seconds and has a top speed of 80 mph (128 km/h).
| Make | MG |
|---|---|
| Model | Magnette |
| Generation | ZA |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1953–1956 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 18,076 built |
| Engine | 1.5-litre B-Series I4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,489 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 60 bhp (45 kW) at 4,600 rpm |
| Torque | 103 Nm (76 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 23.1 s |
| Top speed | 80 mph (128 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,118 kg (2,465 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 54 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an MG Magnette ZA worth?
A typical MG Magnette ZA is estimated to be worth $6,500 – $22,000 (about £4,800 – £16,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
MG Magnette ZA rarity in CarSpot
The MG Magnette ZA is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
MG Magnette ZA fun facts
- The Magnette ZA was the first car to debut the long-running BMC B-Series engine, which would later power the MGA and MGB.
- Despite its family-car appearance, the Magnette ZA was a successful racer, winning its class in the 1955 Silverstone Production Car Race.
- Early 1954 models featured a painted metal dashboard, which was replaced by real walnut veneer in March 1955.