Description
1957 RGS Atalanta MG (A) GEG532 – Own a Rare British Racing Icon
We are excited to offer this rare and iconic 1957 RGS Atalanta MG (A), Registration number GEG532. With a rich history and impressive racing pedigree, this car is a fantastic opportunity for any serious collector or historic racing enthusiast to have something different..
About GEG532 – Racing Heritage and Proven Performance
GEG532 has an advanced twin-tube chassis designed by John Griffiths, built to handle powerful Jaguar engines. However, this car is powered by a well-proven MG engine, gearbox, and running gear. Originally owned by Mr. Prior from Bury St. Edmunds, GEG532 was raced extensively in the 1950s and '60s.
Like many vintage race cars, GEG532’s career was short-lived, and it was stored in a barn near Snetterton until rediscovered in 1988. It was then revived by Peter Wardle, who, along with his friend Malcolm White, raced the car competitively until 2004. GEG532 competed in prestigious events like the BRDC 50s Sports Cars, VSCC 50s Sports Cars, AMOC 50s Sports Cars, and more, winning three races outright and achieving numerous class wins and podium finishes.
2004-2024
In 2004, GEG532 underwent a complete restoration, including chassis and suspension work. The original heavy GRP body was replaced with a lighter version to the original design, enhancing the car's agility on the track. In 2012, the car was bought by collector N. Perkins, who invested further in its restoration, including new paint, interior re-trim, and an engine rebuild by MG Motorsports. The car also includes a passenger seat for those looking to share the excitement on the road.
In 2014, Tom Hardman Limited sold GEG532 to a client in southern Germany. While not registered for the road, GEG532 has been enjoyed at demonstration track events.
An Opportunity to Own a Piece of British Racing History
After a decade in the same ownership, GEG532 is now looking for a new home. This RGS Atalanta MG is a rare chance to own a significant piece of British racing heritage. Whether you want to take it back to the track or make it a centerpiece in your collection, GEG532 has a important part to play UK automotive history.
For more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Tom Hardman Limited. Don’t miss out on the chance to own this truly special car. If the car were to remain in the UK import duty of 5% will be payable to HMRC, and we would assist in the re-registration with the DVLA.
The Atalanta Story
Atalanta cars were first introduced in 1937, initially under the name "HGS," which stood for its founders—Hamill, Gough, and Scott. However, to avoid confusion with HRG, another brand with ties to Alfred Gough, the name was soon changed to Atalanta. Only around 22 pre-war Atalanta cars were built, most of them powered by a Lincoln V12 engine, giving them a level of performance and exclusivity that made them sought-after by enthusiasts.
In 1944, Dick Shattock purchased a pre-war Atalanta, sparking his interest in designing and building high-performance kit cars. By 1951, he founded RGS Atalanta and created his first test car, car number 2 was powered by a Jaguar XK120 to C type specification engine and featuring a fiberglass body and registered HBL845.
Shattock raced this car with great success from 1952 to 1955 before retiring from racing. RGS Atalanta quickly gained a reputation as a pioneer in the use of fiberglass. In fact, Shattock’s company became the first in the UK to offer complete, commercially available fiberglass body shells. This breakthrough was a significant step forward in automotive design, as fiberglass provided a lightweight, durable alternative to traditional materials, enhancing performance and fuel efficiency. RGS Atalanta’s innovative approach attracted international attention, and the company became globally recognized for its fiberglass expertise. Early TVR models and Buckler sports cars sourced their bodies from RGS Atalanta, solidifying Shattock’s influence on the British sports car industry. RGS even established agents in the USA and Canada, extending its reach and impact across the Atlantic.
Through these innovations, Dick Shattock and RGS Atalanta played a crucial role in advancing fiberglass technology, shaping the future of lightweight sports cars, and leaving a lasting legacy in British automotive history.
