A seemingly well cared for MKI MGA from a small, private collection
Has undergone a body off restoration prior to the current owner’s tenure
Complete with plenty of interesting and informative paperwork
The Appeal
The original MGA design marked a significant shift direction for MG’s design language.
It was loosely based on a Le Mans racing car designed by MG in the 1950’s. So marked was this departure that it was dubbed the MGA, representing “the first of a new line.”
The MGA was thoroughly modern under the skin, too, for a model introduced in 1955. Innovations such as independent suspension, rack and pinion steering and a body-on-frame design helped cause quite a stir at launch.
Over 100,000 were sold, with a whopping 95% of production, like this example, being exported.
The MGA features an attractive interior awash with gauges, buttons and period charm
Trimmed in crimson coloured vinyl and with seats and door cards, dash facing and cappings all presenting in excellent overall condition
Carpets are finished in black and appear to be in a very good condition
The large Mota-Lita three spoke alloy and wooden steering wheel is in great condition
This is centred with a large MG boss
A range of chrome rimmed Jaeger gauges and dials dominate the dash, and are all understood to be in working condition
A period correct, MG emblazoned blanking plate covers the radio aperture
The car comes complete with a two-piece zipped tonneau cover (pictured)
The MGA is fitted with a black vinyl hood, complete with sliding side windows which are stored in the boot
For those weaned on the minimal, screen-driven interiors of modern cars this interior will be a delight.
Its bright crimson trim helps exude a vibrant and sporting ambiance. The old school dials, levers and knobs deliver a charming “time-warp” quality. It looks to be in great condition too, with everything understood to work as it should.
Only the odometer may require attention as the old MOTs feature the same mileage for quite a number of years.
The exterior of the MGA is finished in period Old English White
This was the colour that the car left the factory in but is understood to have been resprayed prior to 2011
The paintwork seems to be in great condition considering its age
The bodywork appears to be well presented with panel gaps appearing tight and true
Doors, bonnet, and boot are understood to open and close cleanly and positively
Period wire wheels are fitted with chrome plated twin eared spinners to the centres
The wheels (the spare is also a wire wheel) appear to be in excellent overall condition
Wheels are fitted with quality Pirelli radial type tyres in the correct 165/80 SR15 configuration
Charming Lucas driving lights are fitted to the front
A chrome luggage rack is fitted to the boot lid
Both period items help to accentuate the original look of this MGA
This MGA sums up what many consider to be the epitome of a late 1950’s British sports car.
With a low, sleek profile, wire wheels, bright chrome work and a popular period colourway this example helps explain why.
It is perhaps no wonder that this car sold so well in North America. Just looking at it makes you want to jump aboard and head for the highways or cruise along a winding coastal road. pjJb7jTTySzpQRW7y4N0TRy1dJzH3nfuovwoxMuT.jpeg1.19 MB
The Mechanics
Judging by the V5 it seems possible this MGA features an uprated 1622cc high-compression engine
This is likely to be rated at around 90bhp plus and delivers power to the rear wheels via a four-speed gearbox
The current owner enjoys a small collection of cars and is diligent about having them maintained professionally
The under-bonnet presentation is very good, and all factory data plates seem present
The underside of the car appears to be in excellent condition with many new parts in evidence
It seems clear from this documentation that this is a very fastidiously maintained classic MG
The current owner attests to the sound operation of the mechanical systems of this MG.
It’s a light car with a potent engine by the standards of the time, so a spirited driving experience is on tap when required.
This combined with the low flanks and screen and the sensation of speed is heightened thereby revealing one of the fundamental charms of a British classic sports car – your thrills can be had at speeds that won’t threaten your license or your safety.jka0b8NmNfWnsV0J7PvyhQS3lxws897NQt4vAy7f.jpeg829.8 KB
Summary
Just a quick look at our photographic package will underline what a charming example this MGA is.
Firstly, it is in great condition for 60+ year old car. It looks good from every angle and is immediately ready for use and enjoyment by its lucky new owner.
This is also surely a British classic with a rosy future. Parts are still readily available and running costs will be modest compared to many.
This combined with numbers constantly reducing due to the advancing years and you have a recipe for steady appreciation and growing popularity.
A compelling proposition.
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