An MG With a Long History
During the summer, we sold an MG Special. This car has been in “special” form for a very long time, built around one of the very early production chassis. From past experience with MGs, I knew straight away that the way the chassis was stamped was going to raise questions.
On early cars, chassis plates were stamped PA, or NA, but this was not typically stamped on the frame itself on the earliest cars. This leads to confusion amongst those who do not have a clear understanding of marque histories, particularly government bodies.
Paperwork and an Unexpected Twist
This car was heading overseas, and the new owner wanted to put the original Canterbury-issued registration number on retention. That way, if the car ever returned to the UK, it could be reunited with its original number. We filled out all the paperwork, sent it off, and waited.
The DVLA then came back to say an inspection was required. I thought, fine—they’ll see what I’ve put in the paperwork, understand the stamping, and everything will line up. The inspector came, had a look, even went back for a second glance at the chassis stamping, but didn’t raise any major concerns.
A few weeks later, though, the letter arrived: the V5C was being revoked. The reason? A discrepancy between what the DVLA computer held on record and what the inspector had seen. Their solution was to treat it as if it had no proper identity—meaning we’d have to reapply for registration, risk being given a new 16-digit VIN, and potentially a random modern registration number.
Calling on the MG Registrar
As soon as I had the letter, I contacted the MG N-Type Registrar. I sent him a photo of the chassis stamping—admittedly not the clearest—and he replied almost instantly. His words were reassuring: the stamping was absolutely correct, in the right style, and exactly what you’d expect to see on an N-Type.
What’s more, he told me the DVLA had already been in touch with him for his view. Thanks to the photo I’d sent early on, and because of our long-standing relationship, he was able to provide the paperwork they needed. He confirmed in writing that the chassis number was right, that it matched the records, and that the car should remain recognised as an N type with the correct number sequence.
A Fresh V5 and a Familiar Outcome
Soon after, a new V5 arrived. It still declared the build date of the car as the 1930s, but with the updated chassis number written in the correct format omitting the A. For some, the whole process might have felt stressful. But for me, it was taken in stride. I knew the car was right, and this isn’t the first time we’ve had to work through these exact same issues on other MGs.
Why This Matters
Cases like this highlight why knowledge of these early cars is so important. The DVLA has to go by what their computer shows them, but the records from the 1930s aren’t always complete or consistent. Without the right expertise and registrar support, it would have been easy for this MG Special to lose its rightful identity. The important thing is that the car is now properly recognised, its history intact, and its story ready to continue with the new owner overseas.
DVLA Policy Changes Make Historic Cars Safer
In related news, the DVLA has now updated its rules for historic vehicles, allowing them to retain their original registration numbers and VINs. So, as well demonstrating that the DVLA has begun to listen more to those who know – as in the situation above – it means that enthusiasts who seek to build specials will not run the risk of being issued a dreaded Q plate.
These updates also cover more unusual cases, like structural repairs, chassis modifications, or even EV conversions. The aim is simple: to preserve the identity and provenance of historic vehicles while supporting enthusiasts, restorers, and the wider classic car community.
It’s a reassuring step for anyone passionate about classic cars, and another reason why careful record-keeping, registrar support, and knowledge of marque history remain vital.
You can read more on this update by following the link below to the HCVA Website.
HCVA Website Press Release