Welcome to the Maughan Thiem story.

Maughan Thiem has been serving the South Australian motoring public since 1912. It’s always been a family-based business operating with family values, which is why it has survived for so many years. Its history has always been a great source of pride to those who have owned it and to those who have worked in it.

In 1982, to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the firm, the Board of Directors commissioned the writing of its history. Dr Ian Lawrence Forbes, a prominent academic and historian, meticulously compiled the details of the activities of the business and produced “Maughan Thiem Motor Company Pty. Limited 1912-1982”. To coincide with the launch of the book, a lavish function was held in Maughan Thiem’s Cheltenham Ford showroom and was attended by many dignitaries including The Hon David Tonkin, Premier of South Australia along with staff, suppliers, customers and associates of the business.

Dr Forbes’ book is faithfully reproduced on this site. As you work your way down the timeline below you will pass through the chapters of the book, finally arriving at 1982 and the 70th anniversary of the birth of the business. Where possible, each chapter has been enhanced with resources and information that has been discovered since the writing of the book.

But this is not where we end. As Maughan Thiem continues its journey through the years, so does this site. It will evolve as the story of the company unfolds into the future.

We are always looking for stories, photos and any other resources you may have for inclusion on this site. Please contact us at [email protected] if you wish to be involved.

In the meantime, please enjoy the Maughan Thiem story.