Description
A stunning English Collector car fully restored for wind-in-the-hair drives! The famous and mythical MGA 1600 Mk1 Roadster… Launched in 1955, the MGA was a genuine innovation. This charming, slender little roadster features a modern, open, low-slung coachwork, and a pure line that breaks with the classic aesthetics of the previous models. After a rather long gestation (notably marked by competition participation for a new bodyshell to clad the MG TD chassis), the authorities at BMC, MG’s owner, hesitated to embark on producing a new sports car. Until 1955, MG sold the TF model, an improvement of the old TD based on older concepts. In 1954, faced with the TF’s mixed success, BMC decided to continue the development started at MG and create a completely new car, the “A” series. After a year of further study, the MGA 1500 was marketed in September 1955: it retained a modified chassis, front suspension and steering from the MG TD, but used the rear axle from the MG Magnette Z and, above all, the new 1. 5 L “B” engine with twin carburettors. Production of the MGA was thus launched! This car would enjoy great commercial success (over 100, 000 units sold in 7 years), particularly in the USA where more than 80% of production was exported. Beyond its appealing silhouette, the MGA offered sound road manners and was sold at a price that was reasonable for the era. In 1959 appeared the second large-series version of the MGA: the 1600. It benefited from a larger engine capacity, giving it enough power to surpass the mythical 160 km/ h mark. Lockheed disc brakes were fitted at the front, but drums remained at the rear. Visible changes were made: such as indicators separated from the position and stop lights. Moreover, the removable side windows of the cabriolet could now slide, like those on the MGA 1500’s optional hard top. New colours were offered for both body and soft top. These improvements allowed MG to maintain its lead over rivals. The MGA 1600 was marketed until April 1961, when it was replaced by the 1600 Mk 2, with a slightly larger displacement (1622 cm3) and again with a few differences. Our example is therefore a splendid MGA 1600 Mark 1 (type GHNL) registered in early 1961: one of 415 produced that year! Our passionate owner acquired it in July 2022 after a total, high‑quality restoration between 2015 (USA import) and 2019 by the previous holder, a business owner and avid collector in the Le Mans region. For reference, the engine is a 4‑cylinder 16GA/ U of 1588 cm3 developing 80 HP at 5600 rpm, equipped with two SU H4 carburettors, and paired with a 4‑speed gearbox with reverse, rear‑wheel drive. The interior of our example is, like the rest of the vehicle, in exceptional condition, notably with red Skaï upholstery to great effect, a very pleasant and complete dashboard, and an immaculate black hood, particularly in the translucent areas… Notably, a very handsome wooden steering wheel and matching gear lever, and equipment fitted for greater driving comfort with halogen headlights (originals supplied). The chassis, fully restored, is completely sound and free of corrosion. Disk and drum brakes, in conjunction with the suspension and ground‑linkages setup, are real pluses for handling on all types of roads! The spare wheel is present. The black paint and chromes are of very high quality and appearance. Since its purchase in 2022, our exemplar has covered less than 600 kilometres but regularly, and has been stored warm and well cared for! It has naturally also undergone regular service checks. The high quality and thoroughness of the total restoration are impressive in every respect… To date, the five‑digit odometer reads 495 miles (about 797 km). The registration document is “Collection”. The technical inspection validated in August 2023 (valid for 5 years) has been redone for sale. A detailed and meticulous appraisal, characterised by an excellent condition across all areas, was conducted in September 2023. It is available in the owner’s file, with several folders and documents presenting the rigorous total restoration performed, photos and the various invoices over the years. The 2017 British Motor Industry Heritage Certificate is also provided, as is the FFVE file for obtaining the current Collection registration. The outings and wanders in the open air continue…
