MGCP was once again present at Motorclássico, held at Cordoaria Nacional, an event dedicated exclusively to the world of classic automobiles and motorcycles.
At the MGCP stand this year, the Canelas MG was on display and became the star of the show. We also had the pleasure of welcoming the family of Eng. José Canelas, creator of this iconic 1950s racing car, with whom members had the opportunity to engage during a gathering organized by the Club.
Designed and built between 1952 and 1954 by engineer José Jorge Canelas, this competition car stands out for its technical rationality and innovative spirit, placing it among the most remarkable national projects of its time.
At a time when the Portuguese automotive industry was virtually non-existent, the Canelas MG emerged as a notable example of engineering applied to motorsport. Elegant in its lines and advanced in its solutions, it earned praise from the international specialist press, projecting its creator’s talent beyond national borders.
The car made its racing debut at the Circuito de Monsanto in 1954, finishing in seventh place. In 1955, at the Circuito da Boavista, José Jorge Canelas achieved the model’s best overall result on track, securing fifth place, surpassed only by three Porsche Spyder 1500s — driven by Filipe Nogueira, Seidel and Lautenschlager — and by the Portuguese Olda of Joaquim Correia de Oliveira.
