1k-LITRE M.G. MODS.

Sir,

I was interested in the article on the 1k-litre M.G. saloon by ” R. L.”, and as I have had a somewhat similar experience, I thought he might like to know about it.

My M.G. is a 1049 ” Y” type and, after 7,000 miles, I too fitted a Marshall-Nordec supercharger, and the gain in pulling power was remarkable. I ran the car for 10,000 miles farther and then took the supercharger off again for the following reasons : (1) the car needed a rebore, (2) I once had to be towed home because a cylinder head gasket blew, and (3) drumming was in evidence between 50 and 60 m.p.h. on the very optimistic speedometer. I must add that from all the information I can collect, I’m almost convinced that the very early rebore could not have been caused by the supercharger. If I thought I could overcome the drumming I would relit the blower again now, at 33,000 miles.

As to “R. L.’s” comments about the car, I am almost in complete agreement. The journey comfort (for the driver at least) is very good indeed, thanks to the lightness and general excellence of the steering, the seating position and the rigidity of the car over the worst of roads. I have improved the car by fitting Newton telescopic shock-absorbers and a Dunlopillo overlay to the front seats. I also have a Tapley performance meter fitted, the observation of which is full of interest. I do not agree with ” R. L.” about the comfort of the back seats. I think the ride at the back is bumpy. The oversteer characteristic of the car is scarcely noticeable if you only drive the one car, but I do notice it after driving my 1952 3-litre Alvis. However, the high-speed roadholding of this latter car is extraordinarily good and from this aspect the M.G. inevitably suffers by comparison. The M.G. scores heavily, however, in respect of wind noise. Incidentally, I am always somewhat surprised that one sees so little written about the 3-litre Alvis, as in my opinion it has a great many good points (and one or two bad ones !). I should like to know what other owners feel about this model. I am, Yours, etc.,

Bristol. R. PRArrEN.