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1938 MG VA Tourer

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  • Mileage~19,448 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.5-litre
  • LocationColchester

AUCTION CLOSED

1938 MG VA Tourer

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Video #2

Introduction

Dom Ginn
Professional Consigner

A head-turning restored British tourer, combining timeless styling, elegant craftsmanship, and enjoyable classic motoring.

Introduced in 1937, the MG VA formed part of the marque’s ‘V’ range, bridging the gap between the smaller TA Midget and the larger WA saloon. Designed to offer greater comfort and refinement without sacrificing MG’s sporting character, the VA featured a wider chassis, improved suspension, and a smooth 1.5-litre overhead-valve four-cylinder engine. Available in both saloon and open Tourer form, it quickly became a popular choice for motorists seeking stylish, capable grand touring over the years.

Today, the MG VA Tourer is regarded as one of the most desirable pre-war MGs, with relatively few surviving examples compared to the later T-Series models. Its elegant flowing wings, upright grille, sweeping running boards, and beautifully proportioned bodywork perfectly capture the style of late-1930s British motoring. Combining enjoyable open-top driving with genuine historical significance, the VA Tourer remains a charming and increasingly collectible classic, admired by enthusiasts for its rarity, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal.

This example comes to auction following an impressive ~16 years of ownership, during which the current custodian has completely rebuilt the engine and continually refined the car to prioritise comfort, reliability, and enjoyable touring. It comes with a current MOT valid until 21.06.2027, even though it is MOT and road tax exempt.

This listing was written from information supplied by Dom after meeting Robert the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

The period-correct detailing perfectly complements the VA’s timeless character, and that’s what really drew me to this car when I first saw it.

Robert is a real MG enthusiast. He completely rebuilt the engine in 2013, and the car previously underwent a restoration in 1985. Over his 16 years of ownership, Robert has continually improved the car, focusing on reliability and comfort while preserving its character.

Robert has taken the car to every SVW event since 2010, missing only one, which includes trips to Holland, France, Belgium, Yorkshire, East Anglia, and the Isle of Wight. Throughout his ownership, the car has always been kept in dry storage.

Robert will be sad to see this MG VA go after so many memorable years of ownership and will be on hand to answer any questions you may have in the comments below.

Robert
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

With flowing wings, sweeping lines, and unmistakable MG styling, the VA Tourer remains one of the most elegant British sports cars of its era.

Wheels and Tyres

This example is fitted with MG wire wheels, which present in good overall condition. We did note some pitting to the centre knock-offs.

The wheels are fitted with 5.00 x 19 Blockley tyres with TR13 tubes (450/500-19), fitted in 2012. They appear to be in good visual condition, with a good amount of remaining tread and no visible cracking on the sidewalls.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Bodywork

The bodywork appears to be in good overall condition, with panel gaps aligning visually well around the car.

As expected for a car of this age, there are some age-related marks, including wear around the convertible hood latch points and along the tops of the doors.

We've provided more detailed observations through our high-resolution images and videos. Please take the time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer and to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

Finished in white, the paintwork presents in fair to good condition. We did notice some areas of spiderwebbing, mostly across the front nearside bonnet panel, with some further marks visible around the rear offside arch. A future respray would elevate the car further.

Once again, we've captured high-resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the condition of the paintwork for yourselves.

Glass and Trim

The glass is in good condition for the car’s age - during our visit we didn’t notice any obvious cracks or discolouration.

The window seals appear good and consistent with the overall condition of the car.

The door handles and window surrounds also present well.

The cream/tan convertible roof presents in great condition.

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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

A charming period cabin, featuring traditional craftsmanship, leather upholstery, and classic instrumentation throughout.

Seats and Carpets

The tan leather seats have retained their shape well over the years, with some creasing visible consistent with age and use. The dashboard features wood trim, along with carpets and leather door cards.

The door cards and carpets present similarly, showing a consistent level of condition throughout the interior. The doors are fitted with extra safety catches.

For a detailed view of the cabin, please take a look through the extensive media.

Dashboard

The wooden dashboard in this MG displays signs of patina, as expected for an 88-year-old car.

We did not observe any major damage or significant scuffs during our visit.

The odometer displayed ~19,448 miles at the time of consignment.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The classic black MG 4-spoke steering wheel was in good condition on our visit.

The black gear selector also looked in good shape too, both consistent with the condition of the car.

For a closer look, check out the image gallery to see the detail.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Powered by MG’s smooth 1.5-litre straight-four engine, offering relaxed and rewarding classic touring.

Engine and Gearbox

On the day of our visit, we started the car from cold and it performed well on the road, the 1.5L engine delivered strong, smooth power, idled cleanly, and ran as expected.

Robert reports that the MG starts from cold without issue and drives beautifully, with the smooth manual gearbox delivering the power. Please take a look at the mechanical video to see the car starting from cold, being driven, and for a closer look underneath the MG VA.

Robert also reports fitting a high-ratio rear differential for more relaxed cruising at lower engine revs. The engine was completely rebuilt in 2013, including a balanced crankshaft, new pistons, a thicker cylinder head and all new gaskets, and a new dry clutch. It also has an electric fan.

Suspension and Brakes

On the drive out, Robert took us along some local roads. We heard no obvious knocks, bangs, or squeaks from the suspension, and overall, the car performed as expected with no issues observed.

We cover the underside of the MG in our "Mechanical" gallery section. Head over to our video section, where we've summarised our visit in more detail for you to view for yourself.

The Drive

The MG VA is powered by MG’s 1.5-litre overhead-valve inline-four engine, offering a smooth and characterful driving experience that perfectly suits this elegant tourer. Designed for relaxed open-road motoring, the engine provides ample performance for touring while retaining the charm and mechanical simplicity that makes vintage MGs so enjoyable. Combined with its traditional chassis and manual gearbox, the VA delivers an engaging and authentic classic driving experience.

Take a look at the ‘On the Road’ video, where Robert takes us for a short drive.

Electrics and Other

Robert reports that everything is functional and operational, in line with the overall condition of the car.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

A rare opportunity to acquire a white MG VA Tourer, ready to be enjoyed and admired for years to come.

Robert reports fitting a high-ratio rear differential for more relaxed cruising at lower engine revs. The engine was completely rebuilt in 2013, including a balanced crankshaft, new pistons, a thicker cylinder head and all new gaskets, and a new dry clutch.

Further mechanical work includes a new radiator, water pump, kingpins, steering joints, steering damper, a rebuilt dynamo, and a refurbished distributor.

For added touring comfort and practicality, the car is fitted with a full tonneau cover, front inertia-reel seat belts, and three rear lap belts, professionally installed by Chisbon Restorations using strengthened mounting points.

Take a look at this history and paperwork media to see the previous MOT reports, servicing, and parts this MG has received over its life. It comes with a current MOT valid until 21.06.2027, even though it is MOT and road tax exempt. Robert told us the mileage on the odometer is not accurate.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
22.06.2026 MOT 19,438
04.06.2025 MOT 18,846
03.04.2024 MOT 18,401
06.06.2023 MOT 17,657
22.06.2021 MOT 14,315
18.03.2020 MOT 14,060
04.09.2018 MOT 13,597
06.09.2017 MOT 13,083
07.09.2016 MOT 12,615
09.09.2015 MOT 10,616
27.08.2014 MOT 9,494
05.09.2013 MOT 8,952
22.08.2012 MOT 7,292
19.08.2011 MOT 6,717
09.09.2010 MOT 5,738
30.04.2010 MOT 5,683
09.05.2009 MOT 5,441
13.05.2008 MOT 2,945
25.09.2007 MOT 2,881
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Year1938
  • ModelVA
  • TransmissionManual
  • Reg. Date18.07.1938
  • CC1548
  • Mileage~19,448 on clock
  • HistoryPresent
  • ColourWhite
  • Interior ColourTan
  • Interior TrimLeather
  • Chassis #VA1569
  • Engine #TPBG631
  • Engine RebuildYes - 2013
  • MOTYes. Exp: 21.06.2027
  • MOT ExemptYes
  • Road Tax ExemptYes
  • HPi ClearYes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers3
  • Tyre BrandBlockley Tyres
  • Tyre Age2012
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~16 years
  • Vehicle RegistrationBJB 411
  • Driver’s SideRight
  • Fuel TypePetrol
  • Body TypeConvertible
  • Auction ID3843
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VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Colchester

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Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information or let us know if you want to be notified when a similar car comes to market.

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Ask Questions
Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
5 Comments
Paul
Paul
5 days ago

Thank you for your answers Robert.

Paul
Paul
6 days ago

Kindly explain why the Vehicle ID section says “Caution”. Is there any doubt as to the vehicle’s provenance?
Thank you.
Paul

RobertC
RobertC
Seller
  Paul
5 days ago

Paul sorry for the delay problem with login and got locked out no reason for Caution as far as I know there is all the information
Since restoration and no questions since or before then with two before me since
1980 I have no reason to question the provenance the restoration was completed by a very

RobertC
RobertC
Seller
  RobertC
5 days ago

Respected owner to instructions to SVW at Hull
Robert

RobertC
RobertC
Seller
  RobertC
5 days ago

Paul no reason there is all the paperwork in files
Kind regards
Robert

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Vehicle Location

Colchester

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