In 1936, MG built their largest and most luxurious car to date: the SA. A stylish sports saloon, intended for the gentleman who liked to stand out—just slightly—from the crowd, without compromising on performance or appearance. Most examples were bodied by MG themselves. But occasionally, something truly special was commissioned. And that's what we see here...
This MG SA was originally delivered as a rolling chassis and bodied by Swiss coachbuilder Reinbolt & Christe—commissioned by Mr. Keller, then-director of Sportscar AG, the Swiss MG importer. Between 1936 and 1939, he had several unique bodies crafted by Reinbolt & Christe on various MG chassis. Only nine were built on the SA-type chassis. Each one unique, each one shaped with Swiss precision.
The result is an exceptionally elegant convertible, with flowing lines, a subtle waistline, and a gracefully folding fabric top. You can feel the craftsmanship in every detail—from the long bonnet to the streamlined rear. This isn’t an MG as you know it, but a rare Continental interpretation of British grandeur.
The story doesn’t end there. This car spent many years as part of a private collection belonging to a dedicated MG enthusiast—someone who doesn’t "just do" classics, but restores them with patience and devotion. The restoration of this MG SA took more than ten years. Every detail was lovingly brought back to life with the same care it was originally built. No rushed cosmetic job, but a complete approach, reviving the mechanics, bodywork, and interior.
A discreet yet valuable upgrade during the restoration was the addition of power steering. An invisible modification—but one that significantly enhances driving pleasure, especially at lower speeds or in city traffic. The authentic driving experience remains intact, but it now drives as you'd wish today.
Under the long bonnet lies the rare, original 2.3-litre straight-six engine, which feels surprisingly lively—especially for a pre-war model. The manual gearbox has a pure, mechanical feel, and the car drives, shifts, and brakes beautifully. This is no fragile museum piece, but a rolling tribute to a time when cars were still shaped by hand.
The combination of British engineering, Swiss coachbuilding, and this unique historical story makes this MG SA one of the most special examples of the model. A car with stature, style, character, and soul.
For the collector who already has everything—or the enthusiast who prefers to greet the sunrise in an open-top pre-war convertible, in quiet elegance.
This is not a car you own. This is a car of which you are merely a temporary guardian.