MG T-type - TA Midget

TA Midget

The MG TA Midget replaced the PB in 1936. It was an evolution of the previous car and was 3 inches (76 mm) wider in its track at 45 inches (1,100 mm) and 7 inches (180 mm) longer in its wheelbase at 94 inches (2,400 mm).

The previous advanced overhead-cam inline-four engine was now not in use by any other production car so it was replaced by the MPJG OHV unit from the Wolseley 10 but with twin SU carburettors, modified camshaft and manifolding. The engine displaced just 1292 cc, with a stroke of 102 mm (4.0 in) and a bore of 63.5 mm (2.5 in) and power output was 50 hp (40.3 kW) at 4,500 rpm. The four-speed manual gearbox now had synchromesh on the two top ratios and was connected to the engine by a cork faced clutch running in oil. Unlike the PB, hydraulic brakes were fitted with 9 inches (230 mm) drums.

Like the PB, most were two-seat open cars with a steel body on an ash frame. A bench type seat was fitted with storage space behind it. From 1938 the car could also be had with a more luxurious Tickford drophead coupé with body by Salmsons of Newport Pagnell and 252 were made . The soft top could be used in three positions, fully open, closed or open just over the seats. Wind-up windows were fitted to the higher topped doors making the car more weather tight and individual bucket seats used in the fully carpeted interior. Complete chassis were fitted with a very basic body at the Abingdon factory and driven to Newport Pagnell to have their coachwork fitted. A closed "airline" coupé made by Carbodies, as fitted to the P type, was also offered but only one or two of these is thought to have been made.

The T-type was capable of reaching nearly 80 mph (130 km/h) in standard tune with a 0–60 mph time of 23.1 seconds.

Just over 3,000 were made and in 1936 it cost £222 on the home market, the same as had been asked for the PB.

When first introduced the model was known as the T Type and only after the advent of the TB did the TA designation come into use.