MG
MG
Founded
1930
Founders
Cecil Kimber
Country
United Kingdom
Headquarters
Longbridge, Birmingham
MG
Founded
1930
Founders
Cecil Kimber
Country
United Kingdom
Headquarters
Longbridge, Birmingham
About this brand
Discover the history
The history of MG cars dates back to the early 1920s, when Cecil Kimber, working for Morris Garages in Oxford, began creating sportier versions of existing Morris models. These efforts eventually led to the creation of “Old Number One,” the first true MG car, which achieved success in trials events in the mid-1920s. MG officially began producing cars in 1924 with the 14/28, which was one of the first production vehicles to carry the now-iconic octagonal MG badge.
Throughout the 1930s, MG became synonymous with small, lightweight sports cars that were popular on both the road and the racetrack. Models like the M-Type Midget and the K3 Magnette found success in various motorsport events, including class victories at the Mille Miglia and the Tourist Trophy. The K3 in particular, driven by legends like Tazio Nuvolari, helped cement MG’s reputation as a serious competitor against more established European manufacturers.
After World War II, MG continued to build on its pre-war reputation with models like the TC, which became particularly popular in the U.S. market. The launch of the MGA in 1955 marked a new era for the brand, followed by the highly successful MGB in 1962. The MGB became one of the best-selling sports cars of all time, solidifying MG’s place in automotive history.
The brand, however, faced challenges due to various mergers and changes in ownership, starting with its absorption into the British Motor Corporation (BMC) in 1952. Over time, MG became part of British Leyland, a conglomerate that struggled to maintain its various brands during the 1970s. MG’s sports car production ceased in 1980 when the MGB was discontinued, and the Abingdon factory was closed. For much of the 1980s, the MG badge was used primarily on performance versions of mainstream models like the Metro, Maestro, and Montego.
In the 1990s, MG experienced a revival with the introduction of the MGF, a mid-engine sports car that proved to be a commercial success. This was followed by the acquisition of the Rover Group (which included MG) by BMW in 1994, and later by the Phoenix Consortium in 2000 after BMW pulled out. Despite efforts to revive the brand with new models, MG struggled financially, and production eventually halted in the mid-2000s.
MG was acquired by Chinese automaker Nanjing Automobile in 2005, and later became part of SAIC Motor Corporation. Since then, the brand has focused on producing affordable cars primarily for the Chinese and UK markets, including a line of compact SUVs.
Motorsport has always played a key role in MG’s identity. From its early success in endurance events like the Mille Miglia to its strong presence in pre-war and post-war racing, MG cars were often lightweight, agile, and competitive against larger manufacturers. This racing heritage helped establish the brand as one of Britain’s most beloved automotive icons, particularly in the realm of affordable, mass-produced sports cars. MG’s motorsport pedigree, particularly in the 1930s and 1950s, remains one of its most celebrated legacies.
