Highlights

Very well maintained and smartly presented in Chariot Red
Highly successful rally entrant including two first in class in Monte Carlo Challenge
In current ownership for 26 years
Comprehensively rebuilt engine and running gear for competition use
Used only in dry conditions since retirement from competition
Full complement of rare wet weather equipment including clip-in windows

The Appeal

Before the Mini embarked on its David and Goliath assault of rally stages, there was the MGA. This remarkable Chariot Red 1600 picks up where Stirling Moss and Roger Clark left off, having chalked up its own quota of high-profile event wins. Notably, these include a first in class two years running in the Monte Carlo Challenge.

That competitive provenance sets this ‘61 MGA apart, but then so does its condition. It is in very good order throughout, thanks to the ministrations and care of its long-term current owner, who we are told acquired the car 26 years ago. Since it was retired from rallying it has been used only in the dry and dry stored between drives.

We’re told that the car has been extensively rebuilt, including an engine overhaul. It is said to run well and has been very reliable. This then is a chance to acquire a MGA with fascinating provenance that could be kept for weekends or pressed into more competitive duties.

The vendor says:

“Whether you want a ready-made rally car or simply want a well-sorted MGA with a fascinating backstory, this 1961 example certainly fits the bill.”

History and Paperwork

First registered in 1961
First UK registered June 1999
We are told it has been in current ownership for 26 years
DVLA records three keepers
5,860 miles indicated on the odometer but this is not verified
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing due to age
Has won numerous trophies in competition we are told
First in class twice at the Monte Carlo Challenge
Collection of period photographs, articles and manuals
V5C present
Currently dry stored and only used in favourable weather conditions
Rally timer equipment includes as shown

The Condition

Finished in 'Chariot Red' with tan upholstery
Paintwork presents very well as can be seen in photos with few indications of use
Wet weather equipment including a mohair hood, tonneau cover, rare clip-in windows and a made-to-measure full cover
Wired for a Halda-type trip mile counter, which is included along with a compass and map reader
Bluetooth DIN stereo installed
Bodywork appears straight and solid with well-fitting doors and hood
Equipped with a luggage rack and a Fortnum & Mason wicker basket
Original steel wheels with chromed hubcaps
Paint and chrome finishes present well with minimal visual imperfections
Tan upholstery appears in very good condition with minimal signs of wear
Instruments and switchgear reported to be in good working order
Black carpets present well
Fitted with wind deflectors on the windscreen
'Bullet'-style competition door mirrors
Wood-rimmed sports steering wheel

The Mechanics

1600cc 4cyl B-Series engine
Manual 4-speed transmission
Upgraded from dynamo to an alternator charging system
Engine, gearbox and all running gear rebuilt as part of the rally preparation process
Engine bay is in very good condition, as shown
The vendor states the car offers "wonderful pick up with excellent oil pressure and great oomph for a car of its age"
Reportedly very reliable in competition use

BEFORE YOU BUY

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