MG K1/K3 ‘TT’ Replica

1934 MG K1 TO “K3” SPECIFICATION

Toolroom copy of the factory ‘TT’ bodied K3:

Chassis No. K 0433

Registration No. BPD 728

Introduced at the 1932 London Motor Show, the MG Magnette K-type series represented the ultimate evolution of MG's pre-war overhead-camshaft sports cars. Built around a deep-section chassis with a four-foot track - dimensions comparable to many contemporary Grand Prix machines - the K-type combined advanced engineering with formidable competition pedigree. Of the various derivatives produced, the supercharged K3 stood at the pinnacle of the range, with just 33 examples constructed.

Designed as a thoroughbred sports-racing machine, the K3 featured a short 7ft 10in wheelbase, double-skinned cruciform-braced chassis and a supercharged single overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine. With its high-boost supercharger mounted ahead of the radiator, the K3 produced approximately 120bhp at 6,500rpm in standard form. Power was delivered through an ENV 75 pre-selector gearbox, allowing drivers to pre-select ratios and change gear swiftly with minimal interruption, keeping both hands on the wheel during competition.

The K3 quickly established itself as one of the outstanding sports-racing cars of the era. Driven by some of the finest names in motorsport, including Tim Birkin and Tazio Nuvolari, it achieved success in many of Europe's most prestigious events. With the support of Earl Howe, MG secured first and second places in class at the 1933 Mille Miglia, while also claiming the coveted Team Prize. Further victories followed at Brooklands, Donington Park and numerous continental events, including a notable success at the 1933 Coppa Acerbo in the hands of American driver Whitney Straight.

Such was the reputation of the K3 that Tazio Nuvolari chose to campaign one in the 1933 RAC Ards Tourist Trophy ‘TT’. Winning the ‘TT’ became an iconic moment for both Nuvolari and MG. For the event, MG produced a lightweight ‘TT’ body, and it is this significant chapter in the model's history that forms the inspiration for the car offered here.

Following the Tourist Trophy, the factory's lightweight TT body design was recreated and fitted to a second works-owned K3. The car was subsequently loaned to German racing driver Bobby Kohlrausch, who achieved no fewer than five continental victories during the 1934 season before the car returned to the MG works in 1935.

- The car offered here -

Chassis ‘K 0433’ is a highly developed recreation of that famous TT-bodied works K3, specifically the second refined version. Constructed using an original 1934 K1 chassis with continuous history that has been comprehensively uprated to full K3 specification. It is believed to be the only TT-style K3 recreation built with the distinctive high scuttle and curved dashboard characteristic of the original, creating one of the most striking and evocative pre-war sports-racing MGs in existence.

Copies of the factory chassis records contained within the history file show that chassis K 0433, registered BPD 728, was supplied by Coombs & Son and delivered new to Mrs E.G. McDougall of North London on 4 April 1934. The car was originally specified with the larger 1,271cc KD engine and an ENV 75 gearbox to K3 specification. Significantly, it was also built with the desirable double-skinned cruciform-braced chassis employed on the K3, a feature that remains with the car today.

The accompanying records document correspondence between Mrs McDougall and MG founder Cecil Kimber, together with service records from University Motors of Chelsea. The original buff logbook is retained, and it is believed that Mrs McDougall owned the car until shortly after the Second World War, when it passed to Desmond Milne of South West London. Following two further London-based owners, the car was acquired by Peter Hague of Chichester in 1975 before passing to long-term custodian Peter Mace in 1979.

Remaining in largely original form throughout this period, chassis K0433 was subsequently restored and converted to full K3 specification during the 00’s. In 2015, it was acquired by the current owner, who embarked upon a comprehensive ten-year programme of restoration and development to the highest level, culminating in the beautifully executed all aluminium TT-bodied K3 recreation presented today. The car benefits from a removable scuttle top in order for ease of access to the instuments, wiring gearbox and pedals.

Specification:

Original 1,271cc KD engine has recently been rebuilt and features:

- Phoenix crankshaft and connecting rods

- Rebored and honed cylinder block

- Cosworth pistons

- Ulster TT competition camshaft

- Lightened flywheel

- Fully dynamically balanced rotating assembly

Additional specification includes:

- Vscc eligible Low-profile supercharger (for the ‘TT’ Cowling) rebuilt by Derek Chinn, with gears keyed to shafts to eliminate slippage. Producing 11lbs of boost.

- Correct K3-pattern HV8 SU carburettor

- ENV 75 pre-selector gearbox professionally and recently rebuilt by Radar Engineering

- Original magnesium 13-inch K-type brakes

- Fully rebuilt chassis, suspension and running gear, with components, rebushed or remanufactured as required

- Correct 'Cord Bound' road springs

- Original and very rare ‘TT’ spec K3 spare wheel holder 

In its current form, K 0433 would make a wonderful race or rally car and is eligible for historic events worldwide. Having been delivered new with a 1271cc engine and an ENV 75 gearbox, the car would be eligible for the Vscc Standard and Modified class. For those wishing to pursue FIA Historic Technical Papers, a correct new Marshall 85 K3-specification supercharger is available by separate negotiation.

Particular attention has been paid to authenticity throughout the build. Unlike many K3 recreations, BPD 728 retains its original chassis, chassis number, ID plate, axles and steering components. Original hide has been used for the interior trim, while numerous rare and correct original K3 instruments and fittings have been rebuilt, but not over restored to further enhance the car's authenticity.

The recreation of the K3 radiator shell alone required extensive research and craftsmanship. Using patterns taken directly from the original shell fitted to K3008, a faithful reproduction was created to an exceptionally high standard, reflecting the meticulous approach taken throughout the entire project.

To drive, the car is exhilarating to say the least. Light on its feet with responsive steering and proper ‘K3’ supercharged power. Not to mention the wonderfully crisp and exotic roar from the Brooklands exhaust. 

Beautifully presented, comprehensively rebuilt and based upon an original K-type chassis to full K3 specifications. This remarkable machine captures the character and appearance of one of MG's most celebrated competition cars. Equally suited to road use, competition events or historic touring, it offers a rare opportunity to acquire an exceptionally well-executed recreation of the legendary K3 TT Magnette at a fraction of the cost of an original, and to experience one of the most charismatic sporting MGs of the pre-war era.