Description
Make. MG
Model. A
Year. 1960
Code | Type. MK1 ROADSTER
Engine. 4 cylinders
Displacement. 1, 600 cm³ - new engine
Fuel system. 2 SU carburettors
Power. 80 HP
Mileage. 74, 000 miles
Gearbox. manual 4-speed
Equipment. Hood, side screens, luggage rack, tonneau cover
Condition. Very good (TBE)
Paint colour. Red
Availability. Immediate
Warranty. 3 months Engine, gearbox, axles in our workshops, possible extension
History
MG passed post-war under the control of BRITISH MOTOR CORPORATION, whose president LEONARD LORD preferred for several years to prioritise commercial activity for another one of his marques, AUSTIN, to develop the new AUSTIN-HEALEY marque. He would not approve the launch of the new MG A until 1954, following the collapse in sales of the venerable MG TYPE 1.
In ten months, the technical team designed the new car (sport roadster variant of the MG Magnette ZA saloons of 1953, with the post-war styling) building on work begun in 1950 when stylist Sydney Enever (1906-1993) (promoted to chief engineer in 1954) had designed for the 24 Hours of Le Mans (1951 and 1952) a prototype UMG 400, based on the MG TD, but with modern lines they considered easily adaptable to a road model.
A new chassis was adopted, wider and lower, allowing the mounting of a body with smooth lines. The adoption of a chassis with rails spaced away from the TD allowed the driver position to be lowered. The chassis was stiffened notably by a boxed windscreen surround. The rear axle is rigid and the front suspension is mounted on pivots with lever dampers acting as upper wishbones.
101, 321 MGA were produced from 1955 to 1962, until superseded by the MGB.
From autumn 1955, MG A were exported to the United States. Their speed (100 mph or 160 km/ h) and affordable price ensured success with an American clientele then keen on small British roadsters. 80% of MG A production was exported to the North American market in total.
From May 1959 to April 1961: MGA 1600
Chassis numbers: 68, 851 to 100, 351
The 1600 visually differs from the 1500 by its disc brakes, and the
