1933 MG K1/K3 Magnette Conversion Joins DFW Car & Toy Museum Collection

The DFW Car & Toy Museum has unveiled a historically significant 1933 MG K1/K3 Magnette Expanded Conversion that represents a remarkable fusion of racing heritage and engineering craftsmanship. This British Racing Green masterpiece now forms part of The Ron Sturgeon Collection, showcasing the evolution of pre-war British motoring excellence. The MG K-series Magnette, launched in 1932, marked a substantial advancement for the marque with its 1,086cc inline-six engine and sophisticated crossflow cylinder head design that brought enhanced power and refinement to MG's lineup.

The supercharged K3 racing variant secured MG's place in motorsport history with a stunning 1-2 class finish at the 1933 Mille Miglia, establishing the model's competition pedigree. Originally manufactured as a K1 pillarless saloon, chassis K0359 left MG's Abingdon factory on December 7, 1933, finished in black with red interior and matching wheels. The vehicle underwent an extensive conversion to K3 specification by renowned UK MG specialist Blanton Jones, transforming it into an authentic tribute to MG's most successful racing car while preserving its historical integrity.

The comprehensive conversion process included shortening the chassis to the correct 7'10 3/16" wheelbase and incorporating period-correct components that define the K3's character. The car features Andre Hartford duplex friction dampers, 19-inch Rudge Whitworth knock-off wire wheels, Blockley tires, Rotax headlamps, and Brooklands-style aero windscreens that collectively recreate the authentic racing appearance. The heart of this machine remains its supercharged straight-six engine, fed by a single SU carburetor and exhaling through a striking six-branch exhaust manifold that delivers the distinctive throaty soundtrack synonymous with vintage performance.

Inside the two-seat cabin, drivers encounter a Bluemels Brooklands sprung steering wheel, comprehensive instrumentation, and a prominent six-inch Jaeger tachometer that reflects the era's racing technology. The vehicle is equipped with an ENV 75 four-speed Wilson pre-selector transmission, providing a unique and engaging driving experience that captures the essence of motorsport's golden age. Ron Sturgeon, owner of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the car's significance as an extraordinary fusion of racing heritage and pure driving exhilaration that belongs equally in concours exhibitions and on racetracks.

Having been raced extensively throughout Europe and now immaculately restored, this MG Magnette offers automotive enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the spirit of the Mille Miglia without the substantial financial commitment typically associated with factory K3 examples. The museum, now located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, provides free parking and admission within its 150,000 square foot facility, making automotive history accessible to visitors. Additional information about the museum's collections and visiting hours can be found at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.