55 bhp, 1,548 cc overhead valve inline four-cylinder engine, four-speed manual transmission, solid front axle and live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 108"

• Lesser-known, rare MG touring model

• Convenient Tickford drophead coupe

• Low mileage since quality restoration

Initially a modified version of the Morris Oxford, MG quickly became the quintessential British sports car. Nearly forgotten in the long litany of sporting MGs before World War II are the touring models produced from 1937 to 1939, the VA, SA and WA series. The VA, selling for £280 to £350, rode a 108-inch wheelbase and was powered by a twin-carbureted 1,548 cc pushrod four. The least expensive VA was a four-seat tourer, and a four-door saloon was offered for those desiring better weather protection. At the top of the range, however, was a drophead coupe with a Tickford body by Salmons & Sons.

Originally carriage builders, Salmons were among the earliest of British companies to build motor bodies, beginning in 1898. Describing themselves as “all weather specialists,” they were among the first to specialize in cabriolets, landaulets and drophead coupes. A hallmark of Salmons was the Tickford crank-operated convertible top, which used a gear mechanism to raise and lower the roof. Conveniently operated with a crank that inserted into the side of the body, it quickly performed what would otherwise be a lengthy maneuver to erect a metal frame and fit a canvas cover over it. So popular became the Tickford top that the coachworks eventually took the name for the business, which later became a part of Aston Martin, Ltd.

Restored about ten years ago by Hal Motorworks in Burlington, Ontario, this MG VA is nicely presented in red with a tan top and interior. Having covered very little mileage since restoration, it remains fresh in all respects and has been given a recent service. The VA offers the panache of an open tourer with the comfort of a closed car and the ability to change from one to the other with ease. This car is ready to tour in any kind of weather.