The Designers - Cecil Kimber: the visionary behind MG Cars

​Cecil Kimber: The Visionary Behind MG Cars

Written by John O'Cean.

Cecil Kimber was a British car designer and engineer who played a pivotal role in the establishment and success of MG (Morris Garages) Cars. His innovative designs and commitment to creating high-performance sports cars made MG a renowned name in the automotive industry. This blog looks at the life, achievements, and lasting impact of Cecil Kimber, highlighting his contributions to car design and his enduring legacy.

Early Life and Career Beginnings
Cecil Kimber was born on April 12, 1888, in London, England. From a young age, he developed a passion for cars and engineering. After completing his education, Kimber started his career in the automotive industry with the WO Bentley and DFP companies. In 1921, he joined Morris Garages (MG) in Oxford, a company that specialized in servicing and selling Morris cars. Little did he know that this would mark the beginning of his remarkable journey in car design and engineering.

Rise of MG Cars
Under Kimber's leadership and creative vision, MG Cars transformed from a garage to a renowned car manufacturer. He recognized the potential of building sports cars that offered both performance and affordability, filling a niche in the market. Kimber's first major achievement at MG was the development of the MG 14/28 Super Sports, launched in 1923. This model established MG's reputation for producing high-performance sports cars. The MG 14/28 boasted a lightweight body, advanced overhead camshaft engine, and excellent handling characteristics, making it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts. 

In the following years, Kimber continued to refine and expand MG's lineup of sports cars. His designs were characterized by elegant and aerodynamic bodies, powerful engines, and exceptional performance. The MG brand quickly gained recognition for its blend of style, speed, and affordability.

MG Midget and Success in Motorsports
Cecil Kimber's most significant achievement came with the introduction of the MG Midget in 1929. The Midget was a compact sports car that embodied everything MG stood for – lightweight, agile, and exhilarating to drive. With its sleek design and exceptional performance, the MG Midget became an instant success. The Midget's success extended to the realm of motorsports. The car's small size and nimble handling made it a formidable competitor on the racetrack. Midgets achieved numerous victories in various racing events, including class wins at prestigious races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Mille Miglia.

The success of MG Cars in motorsports played a crucial role in elevating the brand's reputation and attracting a devoted following of enthusiasts. Cecil Kimber's commitment to motorsports not only showcased the performance capabilities of MG cars but also served as a marketing tool to promote the brand's image and credibility.

Legacy and Impact
Cecil Kimber's contributions to car design and engineering left an enduring legacy in the automotive industry. His visionary approach to building sports cars, emphasizing performance, style, and affordability, set the foundation for MG's success. Kimber's designs and engineering innovations became synonymous with the MG brand. The classic MG sports cars, including the Midget, Magnette, and T-Series models, continue to be admired and cherished by car enthusiasts worldwide.

Furthermore, Kimber's influence extended beyond MG. His designs and engineering principles influenced the wider automotive industry, inspiring other car manufacturers to prioritize performance and style in their sports car offerings.

MG Cars today
MG is currently owned by SAIC Motor Corporation Limited (SAIC Motor), which is one of the largest automakers in China. SAIC Motor acquired the MG brand and the rights to use the iconic octagonal MG logo when it purchased the assets of the bankrupt British MG Rover Group in 2005.

Under SAIC Motor's ownership, MG has experienced a resurgence in popularity and expanded its market presence beyond the United Kingdom. SAIC Motor has invested in developing new MG models and has been leveraging its global network to distribute MG vehicles internationally, including in Europe and other parts of the world. MG is fast becoming recognised once more for building sports cars that today are primarily EVs offering performance and affordability allied to attractive styling and zero emissions.

Summary
Cecil Kimber's passion, creativity, and engineering skills made him a visionary car designer. Through his leadership and innovative designs, he transformed MG from a small garage into a renowned car manufacturer, known for producing high-performance sports cars that captured the hearts of driving enthusiasts.

Kimber's legacy as the driving force behind MG Cars remains significant. His emphasis on performance, style, and affordability in car design continues to inspire and shape the automotive industry. The MG brand, with its rich heritage and iconic sports cars, stands as a testament to his enduring impact. Kimber's contributions to the automotive world will be remembered for generations to come, and his name will forever be associated with the spirit of MG Cars.