Thank you Trevor, that's very helpful. Perhaps I used the term concours too loosely - I too want to use and enjoy the car. For me invisible updates such as a five-speed box are not only acceptable but desirable.

I had looked at the ads for all the cars you mention and fully concur with your judgments.

The problem with opting for a decent car and then getting someone to do the rest is finding that someone you can trust (any recommendations?). I am relatively competent mechanically but bodywork and trim are beyond me.

The search goes on, but I suspect I will wind up attending next year's national rally and trying to throw filthy lucre at somebody!

Thanks again for your reply.

I wish you well in your search, having judged the concours at the 60th there are very few cars that can be truly considered concours, Magnette owners tend to be users and enjoyers of their cars, and therefore tend to personalise them in some way, which moves the cars from the concours field.
For instance disc brakes, 5 speed boxes, flashing indicators etc.

I suggest that a possible solution is to find a car with really good bodywork for say £8 -£11000 and then sort out the cosmetics, there are a couple on ebay which may suit or Car and Classic. There is a green ZB at £14k(over priced in my opinion) in Salisbury area which looks a reasonable basis, needs the engine bay sorting and the whole of the interior, say £10K.

Motorbuild have two high priced Magnettes but both very poor quality,not worth the trip. There is a sound basis ZB in west Wales 07043226395 may be worth a look

Good luck
Trevor

Hello all from a new member of the forum in the UK. I realise this may be a search for the Holy Grail, but I am looking for a Magnette in truly concours condition inside and out, and preferably with a five-speed conversion. Colour immaterial. I know perfection comes at a price and I am prepared to pay it. If anyone has such a car for sale, or knows of one, I would be very grateful to hear from you.