A Compact Marvel: The MG Inline-Six
In the history of automotive engineering, few powerplants stand out for their miniaturized complexity quite like the inline-six engine found in the MG Magna. With a displacement of just 1,086cc (66.27 cubic inches), it remains one of the smallest six-cylinder engines ever produced for a production vehicle. Developed in the early 1930s, this engine was derived from the Wolseley Hornet's four-cylinder unit, with MG engineers extending the block to bridge the gap between their entry-level Midget models and larger, more expensive offerings.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The engine made its debut in 1931 within the MG Magna, delivering 37 horsepower through dual SU carburetors. As the technology evolved, the L-type Magna introduced significant refinements, including a cross-flow cylinder head and coil ignition. These updates pushed the output to 41 horsepower. The vehicle relied on a non-synchronized four-speed "crash" gearbox and a dry-plate clutch to transfer power to the rear wheels, while the chassis featured traditional half-elliptical leaf springs and cable-operated drum brakes.
Inside the cabin, the L-type Magna offered a touch of elegance, featuring a burled-wood dashboard equipped with distinct, octagonal Smiths gauges. Depending on the body style—ranging from the L2 two-seater to the L1 four-seater and the enclosed Salonette—the car was priced between £285 and £334 in 1933.
Racing Success and Legacy
Despite its modest size, this inline-six proved to be a formidable competitor on the track. MG actively supported both their factory team and privateers with performance upgrades. One of the most notable achievements occurred in 1933, when a supercharged K3 Magnette—utilizing this engine platform—clinched a victory in the 1,100cc class at the prestigious Mille Miglia road race.
«The engine's versatility allowed it to dominate various circuits and rallies, including successes at the Brooklands Track, the Monte Carlo Rally, and the Rally of Great Britain, the latter won by Kitty Brunell in 1933.»
The End of an Era
The production run for the L-type series concluded in early 1934, making way for the N-type Magnette, which utilized a larger 1,271cc version of the engine. However, the landscape for MG shifted dramatically in 1935 when the company was absorbed into Morris. This merger effectively dismantled the independent racing and design departments that had fostered the development of such unique engines, marking the end of a highly innovative chapter in the brand's history.