Highlights

Freshly restored by MGA specialist and only just UK registered
Engine and gearbox rebuilt
Converted to right-hand drive and fitted with power steering
Very good condition with new 72 spoke wheels and new tyres
Voluntary MOT April 2026 with no advisories
Fascinating history and interesting collector opportunity

The Appeal

There are restored MGAs and then there is this car. Let's start with the story. It arrived in the UK from the USA in 1989 when a 4-year comprehensive restoration began. That work included a full engine and gearbox rebuild.

On completion, the car remained unused in dry storage until the vendor acquired it last year. He was absolutely the right buyer, being an experienced MGA restorer and owner. He carefully recommissioned the car, including an extensive list of cosmetic and mechanical improvements all driven by a thorough check over of the car.

The work included carburettors and fuel pump overhaul, new exhaust system and full service and greasing. There is a new windscreen and surround, replacement hood and frame with sidescreens, new carpets and door trim and the cockpit rails have been replaced. The dials and switchgear have been refurbished and the original speedo only had the glass cleaned.

There are also a couple of useful improvements to suit modern UK motoring in the form of a RHD conversion and power steering system.

Thanks to all that older and recent work, this is a car in great condition. It carries a gentle patina of age, but arguably that is the kind of character you want on a car of this age. It comes to market with the transparency of a voluntary MOT to April 2026 with no advisories.

Here is a chance to capitalise on the work of a well-regarded specialist with what amounts to an extensively rebuilt car.

The vendor says:

“Quick, powerful and holds the road. Starts first time on the button and with the power steering it's a joy to manoeuvre. Car parks and reverse parking? No problem. A real head turner, expect on-lookers when you park. I would like to keep it myself but sadly, its got to move on, to another very lucky owner.”

“Great condition. Stunning wheels and tyres. Open top 'wind in the hair driving' at it's best with ease of driving wth the power steering. Great car for holding your own when comparing vehicle with other MGA owners at meets. Go for it. You'll love it! The history. Original mileage."

History and Paperwork

First registered in the USA in June 1960
Imported to the UK in June 1988
First UK registered in April 2025
Import documents present
Original Heritage Certificate dated July 1988 included
Letter from DVLA refusing first registration until after restoration (dated January 1989)
MOT valid until April 2026 with no advisories
Comprehensive restoration carried out between 1989-1993 with all invoices present
After restoration, the car was placed in a private collection, covered and maintained
Recently sold to the current owner, an MGA specialist/restorer
Original speedometer with correct mileage of 45,835 miles
Original wheels and factory-fitted white wall tyres included with the sale

The Condition

Bodywork presents in very good order with few imperfections
Orient Red paintwork from 1991 remains in good condition with only one small blemish on the rear offside wing
Underside has been undersealed with no rust visible
No structural advisories on current MOT
All chrome work appears bright and in good condition
New windscreen and surround fitted
New 72-spoke wheels and 165 tyres fitted, including spare
Interior appears in very good condition
New seats, tonneau cover, hood frame and hood installed
New sidescreens, carpets, door trims and cockpit rails
Refurbished dials and knobs
Original speedometer retained and cleaned
Supplied with original wheels and original factory-fitted tyres that still hold air!

The Mechanics

1,588cc engine capacity
Manual 4-speed transmission
Engine and gearbox completely overhauled in 1989
Carburettors and fuel pump recently overhauled
Converted to right-hand drive with Toyota Prius-based electric power steering
New exhaust system fitted
New battery installed and charging system working properly
The vendor reports good compression and oil pressure
Cooling system functions well with no overheating issues
All mechanical areas including brakes and suspension checked and in good working order
No reported running or driving issues
No advisories on current MOT

BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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