1935 MG PA Midget | Fascinating Period History

£15,500

Just arrived at The Garage

1935 MG PA Midget

ALJ 666 | Fascinating Period History | Brooklands Museum & Murray Walker Connections | Almost 50 Years of Family Ownership

Running Project Requiring Refurbishment

Introduced in 1934, the MG P-Type Midget was a development of the successful J-Type, retaining the attractive traditional styling of its predecessor whilst incorporating a number of mechanical improvements. Powered by an 847cc overhead camshaft four-cylinder engine with a three-bearing crankshaft, the PA developed approximately 36 bhp and offered lively performance and excellent handling, making it popular with sporting motorists of the period.

Produced between 1934 and 1935, the PA remains one of the most appealing of the small pre-war MG sports cars.

An Interesting and Well-Documented History

Bearing its distinctive Bournemouth registration number, ALJ 666 was reportedly delivered new in January 1935 to E. H. Banfield, a keen sporting motorist who participated in a number of trials and competitive events during the 1930s.

The substantial accompanying history file contains research and correspondence relating to Banfield’s ownership and competition activities, including a reported First Class Award in the 1935 RAC Rally.

Of particular interest is a contemporary article from The Light Car, dated 28 June 1935, covering the Brighton–Beer Trial. This includes a period photograph of an MG clearly displaying registration ALJ 666, providing valuable contemporary evidence of the car’s early sporting involvement.

The history file also contains correspondence dating from June 1981, when Graham Roots was actively researching the MG’s early life. His enquiries included contact with the MG Car Club and the National Motor Museum Library, with particular reference to Banfield’s participation in the 1935 Lands End and London–Exeter Trials.

Whilst the period photographs and historical correspondence provide a fascinating account of the car’s early years, certain competition results and historical associations have not been independently authenticated by us. These are therefore presented on the basis of the research and documentation contained within the accompanying history file.

Brooklands Museum and Murray Walker

Adding further interest to its history, ALJ 666 is understood to have spent approximately 15 years or more on display at Brooklands Museum.

The accompanying collection includes photographs of the MG at Brooklands, including images featuring the late Murray Walker, the legendary motorsport commentator.

This association with Brooklands provides another interesting chapter in the car’s history, alongside its earlier sporting activities.

Almost 50 Years of Family Ownership

The MG has remained in the same family ownership for almost half a century, during which time a substantial collection of historical material has been assembled and preserved.

The extensive history file includes period publications and photographs, correspondence concerning the car’s early ownership and competition activities, club documentation and records of mechanical work undertaken over the years.

Of particular interest is a Vintage Sports-Car Club eligibility document issued in July 2000, recording registration ALJ 666 and chassis number PA/1780.

The engine number has also been checked against the current V5C registration document and corresponds with the recorded details.

Recent Mechanical Recommissioning

In September 2026, the MG underwent mechanical recommissioning by Rees Bros Restorations of Aldershot, with expenditure totalling £3,524.34, supported by the accompanying invoice.

Work included attention to the fuel system and ignition, repairs to the tachometer drive, clutch adjustment, investigation and remedial attention to the transmission and propshaft, together with the fitting of five new Blockley tyres and tubes.

A serviceable replacement petrol pump was also fitted, and following the work the car was road-tested, with Rees Bros recording that it was driving satisfactorily.

Whilst this expenditure has returned the car to running order, it should be regarded as recommissioning rather than a comprehensive mechanical restoration.

Condition and Presentation

Finished in green with contrasting red wire wheels and beige upholstery, ALJ 666 presents today as a distinctly time-worn pre-war MG, reflecting many years of use and long-term ownership.

The paintwork, interior, fittings and general cosmetic presentation show considerable age and wear. The car has not been cosmetically restored in preparation for sale, and apart from a light clean, we intend to leave it essentially as it is.

This MG is offered as a running project requiring mechanical and cosmetic refurbishment. Further inspection, repairs and preparation will be necessary before it can be regarded as suitable for regular road use.

We feel it would particularly appeal to an enthusiast who appreciates the character of an older pre-war sports car and would prefer to undertake sympathetic refurbishment according to their own requirements, rather than purchase an example which has already been extensively restored.

Our Thoughts

What makes ALJ 666 particularly interesting is the wealth of historical material accompanying it.

Its documented appearance in period motoring publications, research into its early trials and rallying activities, lengthy association with Brooklands Museum and almost 50 years of family ownership combine to give this MG PA a fascinating story.

Although certain aspects of its history remain unverified, the considerable research undertaken by previous custodians provides an absorbing insight into the car’s past.

For an enthusiast seeking a pre-war MG with character, an extensive history file and the opportunity to undertake a rewarding refurbishment project, ALJ 666 is certainly worthy of consideration.

Offered at £15,500, reflecting its present condition and the refurbishment required.

Viewing strictly by prior appointment.