Rare 1935 MG PB Airline Coupe Showcased at DFW Car & Toy Museum

The DFW Car & Toy Museum is currently exhibiting one of the most significant pre-war British automobiles in its collection: a 1935 MG PB Airline Coupe from The Ron Sturgeon Collection. This maroon masterpiece represents an extraordinary rarity in automotive history, with only 14 examples known to have been built on the PB chassis. The vehicle stands as a testament to the pinnacle of Art Deco automotive design and British engineering excellence from the pre-war era.

Designed by H.W. Allingham and bodied by Carbodies of Coventry, the Airline Coupe transformed the already agile MG PB into a rolling work of art. The vehicle features distinctive design elements including cathedral skylights integrated into the sliding sunroof, a wind-out windshield, and an elegant fastback silhouette that combines both functional and aesthetic appeal. Despite sharing the same compact 87.25-inch wheelbase as its roadster counterparts, the Airline Coupe commands the presence of a much larger vehicle through its graceful, sweeping lines and distinctive upright MG grille.

Under the hood, the MG PB Airline Coupe houses the final and most refined iteration of MG's renowned overhead-cam crossflow-head inline-four "Midget" engine. In PB specification, this 939 cc power plant generated 43 horsepower and featured twin SU carburetors, paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. The vehicle was equipped with adjustable Andre Hartford shock absorbers, allowing drivers to customize the ride quality for various road conditions—a sophisticated feature for its time. The iconic MG "Midge" mascot perched atop the radiator serves as a charming period-correct accessory that has become beloved among MG enthusiasts worldwide.

Ron Sturgeon, owner of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's significance, stating that the MG PB Airline Coupe embodies everything enthusiasts love about classic motoring: rarity, beauty, and abundant character. With only 51 Airline Coupes believed to have been manufactured across all MG chassis platforms, and merely 14 built on the PB chassis, this particular example represents one of the rarest surviving specimens. The vehicle showcases the perfect integration of streamlined coachwork with spirited British engineering, making it a compelling attraction for collectors, design aficionados, and pre-war automotive purists. Visitors interested in viewing this automotive treasure can find additional information through the museum's website at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.

The exhibition of this rare MG PB Airline Coupe holds significant implications for Texas's cultural and economic landscape. For automotive enthusiasts and collectors, the presence of such a rare vehicle in Texas elevates the state's profile in the classic car community and provides educational opportunities about automotive design history. The museum's ability to attract visitors interested in rare automotive artifacts contributes to local tourism and supports Texas's growing reputation as a destination for cultural and historical attractions. For businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors, exhibitions of this caliber can drive increased visitor traffic and associated economic activity, while for the automotive industry, it highlights the enduring value and appeal of classic design and engineering excellence.