36 bhp, 847 cc SOHC inline four-cylinder engine, twin SU carburetors, four-speed non-synchronized gearbox, beam front axle with semi-elliptic springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic springs, and cable-actuated drum brakes. Wheelbase: 87 in.

• Classic MG built for police use

• Recent comprehensive restoration

• Authentic Lancashire registration plate

In 1934, the PA was the latest in the line of MG Midgets, dating back to the 1928 M-Type. The PA, of which 2,000 were built, replaced the J2, and while the two-seater version was similar in style to the J2, the wheelbase was longer and the body wider. The most significant improvement, however, was that the crankshaft main bearings were increased from two to three. The top-end was a carry-over with a cross-flow cylinder head and a single overhead camshaft.

An output of 36 brake horsepower for a police car sounds ludicrous today, but it has to be seen in the perspective of the low-powered family cars then in use in Britain. Also, the roads were two-lanes and frequently congested, so a nimble little car could play a useful part in a police fleet.

The doors on this car provide the evidence of its interesting past. All Midgets, from the J-series through to the 1955 TF, had rearward-hinged, or “suicide,” doors. But to suit their needs, the Lancashire police insisted on doors that were forward-hinged.

The car being offered is reported as having undergone a meticulous seven-year restoration several years ago, at which time the original ash framing of the body was found to be in excellent condition. Finished in dark green, this car, with its original but non-standard door configuration, its non-standard P100-style headlamps, and its authentic Lancashire licence plate, is a lovely and special example of the historic P-series Midget.

Any pre-WWII MG coming to auction will command attention, especially among those who have a keen appreciation for British vintage cars, but this particular MG is sure to generate an unusual level of interest, given its fascinating past. It is believed to be number 5 of 20 MG PA two-seaters delivered to the police constabulary of Lancashire, England, in 1934.