Description
1961 MGA 1600 Mk II Roadster
Overview
An exceptionally honest, beautifully restored 1961 MGA 1600 Mk II Roadster (Registration: PVS 932). Sourced as an exceptionally dry, rust-free California car, this vehicle underwent a meticulous four-year nut-and-bolt restoration between 1989 and 1993 in Angus, Scotland. Built to be driven and enjoyed year-round, it perfectly balances classic aesthetics with reliable performance.
Background & Provenance
• Origin: Dispatched from Abingdon on 17th November 1961 to North America (Chassis No. G-HNL2/ 105044).
• History: Imported from Oakland, California, where it was previously owned by Albert Paganini. Prior to purchase, it was inspected by MGA specialist Henry Staal, who remarked that "she is one of the straightest cars I have seen and she greets you warmly".
• Expert Support: Throughout the restoration process, owner Peter Long relied heavily on Bob West (of Horner & West), a renowned MGA specialist. Bob supplied key parts, sourced rare items—such as an original re-chromed factory front grille—and shared over 32 years of invaluable MGA expertise over frequent phone consultations to ensure the rebuild was carried out strictly to factory standard.
• Restoration: Subjected to a comprehensive, hands-on body-off restoration from 1989 to 1993.
Key Features & Technical Details
• Body & Chassis: Preserved exceptionally well due to its dry California climate. Steel repairs were minimal (limited to new sills, rear door post repair sections, and battery cradles). The chassis and suspension were wire-brushed, primed with Alkyphos, and coated in durable Spencer black enamel.
• Paint & Trim: Hand-finished in classic Chariot Red cellulose over its original factory Old English White base. Converted to Right-Hand Drive (RHD) during restoration using an authentic RHD steering rack and refurbished bulkhead plate.
• Engine & Drivetrain: Fitted with a period-correct 1600 Mk II engine rebuilt by Aldon Engineering, paired with a rebuilt gearbox, new clutch, and new prop shaft universal joints.
• Wheels & Accessories: Upgraded to 60-spoke wire wheels using proper wire-wheel conversion hubs, fitted with Securon seatbelts, and detailed carefully to avoid unnecessary reproduction parts.
Summary
Built with a focus on mechanical reliability, structural integrity, and authenticity under expert guidance, this is a rare, documented 1600 Mk II Roadster that is ready for classic events or open-road driving. Buyer will fall in love with this 1961 MGA 1600 Mk II because it delivers the pure, unadulterated British sports car experience without the structural headaches usually associated with classic roadsters.
The Dry California Metal: Unlike typical British classics that have suffered decades of damp rust, this shell came straight out of Oakland, California. As specialist Henry Staal famously noted upon inspection, it was "one of the straightest cars I have seen". The panel gaps remain incredibly tight, crisply defining those swooping front wings and rear arches.
Peak Evolution MGA: As a genuine 1600 Mk II, this is the most refined and desirable iteration of the MGA line-up. You get the inset front grille, revised taillights below the boot line, and the larger 1622cc B-Series engine that delivers more usable torque for modern road speeds.
The silver-painted 60-spoke wire wheels set against the striking Chariot Red bodywork. While many classic sports cars carry harsh, high-maintenance chrome wires, these painted 60-spoke rims—paired with front disc brakes peaking through—give the car an authentic, muscular vintage racer aesthetic. It perfectly captures the spirit of classic British motorsport: focused, mechanical, and breathtakingly stylish.
