Father-Son Project Revives 1931 MG M-Type for Rally Celebration

The legacy of a classic car has been brought back to life as a son honors his late father by restoring a 1931 MG M-Type. Pat Widdup, hailing from Palmerston North, dedicated years to reviving the vehicle that his father, Frank Widdup, began modifying in 1955. Originally purchased as a practical runabout, the car underwent significant changes as Frank stripped it down with the vision of transforming it into a beach racer.

Frank Widdup initially acquired the MG M-Type in good condition, but a few years later, he dismantled it, disposing of the outer shell while keeping the chassis, engine, gearbox, and wheels. These parts remained under the family home until Frank passed away in 2001. In a heartfelt tribute, Pat decided to restore the car to its original design, embarking on a challenging project that required both skill and dedication.

The restoration process proved to be relatively straightforward when it came to reassembling the chassis, engine, and gearbox. However, the absence of the original body and doors presented a notable challenge. Drawing on his coach-building expertise, Pat crafted a replica body using oak and aluminium. Although the project was primarily a labor of love, it came at a cost of approximately $80,000.

Pat humorously described the car’s specifications: “It’s a 3-speed crash gearbox, with a bulk standard 850cc four-cylinder engine, producing a massive 27 horsepower. But it runs good on 100 octane. It’ll do 65 miles per hour — that’s pushing it pretty hard. You wouldn’t want to be going too much faster than that anyway, with an open top like this.”

Pat and his wife, Lynette, frequently take the restored MG on weekend drives around Palmerston North. When Lynette opts to stay at home, there’s just enough room for two small grandchildren to join Pat on their outings. “They love it. There’s not much space, though,” he added.

The MG M-Type was one of over 60 classic cars showcased in Dunedin during the 2026 MG National Rally. This marks the first time in over a decade that the rally has visited Dunedin, a celebration organized by the MG Car Club Otago-Southland. The week-long event will continue its journey to Invercargill and conclude in Cromwell on Saturday.

This restoration not only represents a personal tribute but also highlights the enduring passion for classic automobiles and the stories they carry. The MG M-Type stands as a testament to the bond between father and son, bridging generations through a shared love for motoring history.