MG 14/28 (1924): Where the MG Story Truly Began – The MG 14/28, introduced in 1924, holds a special place in British automotive history. While earlier MG models existed, the 14/28 is widely recognised as the first official MG production car, marking the true beginning of the MG brand as an independent manufacturer.
For enthusiasts and historians alike, this car represents the moment MG moved from being a small coach-building operation to a name that would become synonymous with British sports cars.
The Origins of the MG 14/28: MG, short for Morris Garages, began as a retail and service business for Morris cars in Oxford, managed by Cecil Kimber. Kimber believed there was a market for cars that combined everyday practicality with a touch of sporting character.
Before 1924, MGs were essentially Morris cars fitted with special bodies. The MG 14/28 changed that perception. It was the first model to carry the octagonal MG badge and be officially marketed as an MG in its own right.
Design and Engineering: The MG 14/28 was based on the Morris Oxford chassis, but it featured several notable refinements:
- Engine: 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.
- Power Output: Approximately 28 horsepower.
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox.
- Body Styles: Tourer and saloon versions.
- Construction: Hand-built coachwork with a more sporting appearance
Although not a sports car by modern standards, the 14/28 offered improved performance and a more refined driving experience compared to typical family cars of the time.
Establishing the MG Identity: The MG 14/28 played a crucial role in shaping the brand’s identity. It introduced several elements that would define MG for decades:
- A focus on driver enjoyment.
- Distinctive styling compared to standard Morris models.
- Strong branding under the MG name.
Its success proved that there was demand for cars that felt special without being prohibitively expensive.
Why the MG 14/28 Was Short-Lived?? : Production of the MG 14/28 lasted only until 1925, as MG continued to evolve rapidly. The model was soon replaced by newer designs that were lighter, more powerful, and better suited to sporting use.
MG’s growing interest in performance and motorsport led directly to later models such as the MG 14/40 and eventually the famous M-Type Midget, which cemented the company’s reputation.
The Legacy of the MG 14/28: Today, the MG 14/28 is a rare and highly respected classic. It is not remembered for racing victories or outright speed, but for something arguably more important—it created the MG brand.
Surviving examples are typically found in museums and private collections, valued for their historical significance rather than performance figures.
Final Thoughts: The MG 14/28 may not be the most famous MG ever built, but it is undoubtedly one of the most important. It laid the foundations for a century of British sports car heritage and set MG on the path to becoming a global automotive icon.
