1960 MG MGA Mk1 Roadster 1600cc *Sold £19,000*

Description

• Owned by our vendor for 35 years
• In Iris Blue
• Black Mohair soft top
• Comprehensive restoration
• Heritage Certificate
• Good number plate
• Very little use, stored in a Carcoon

Three aluminium-bodied MG race prototypes were built for Le Mans in ’55. Their success resulted in the MGA going into production in September 1955. For many, the MGA is the best car Abingdon ever turned out. In roadster version, it is one of the most popular and sporty MGs ever made.

History

• With our vendor for 35 years
• Comprehensive restoration completed around 2001
• Engine number 16GA-1114321
• Chassis number GHN 91109
• Heritage Certificate

Outside

The Le Mans’ car top speed of 116mph demonstrated the MGA aerodynamic advantages. The designer, Syd Enever, modified the production MGAs in order that the occupants sat lower in the sports car. Scuttle shake was eradicated by building a substantial structure on the frame, supporting the front bulkhead. Aluminium-skinned doors, bonnet and boot lid kept the weight to a minimum, resulting in sprightly performance from the roadster.

Our vendor tells us, as a professional welder, he was happy to do all the panel work that was needed himself. Photos are in the Gallery.

The paintwork was sent away to professional a classic car body shop.  The Heritage Certificate states the MGA’s original colour was Beige. It is now MG Iris Blue, a good move. You can see the results of all that hard work and expense in the Gallery.

• Mk1 MGAs are sought after for their classic details, such as the rear lights and grille
• When not in use this MGA is stored in a Carcoon
• As you’d expect, this older restoration shows the need for slight cosmetic attention here and there
• Overall, the MGA remains in good condition
• Tonneau cover

Inside

MGA interiors are amongst the nicest of the era. They are full of charm and packed with character. Having been fully included in the comprehensive resto, this one is particularly lovely.

• Black mohair soft top
• Great leather seats, showing little use
• Black carpets in the cabin and boot in good condition
• Colour coded dash
• Original Jaeger dials in good condition
• Roll top dash in good condition
• Door cards in good condition
• Centre armrest
• Smart side screens
• Classic MG logo
• Factory four spoke steering wheel

It is in no small part due to the superb interior that the MGA was the best-selling sports car. Over 100,000 customers were proof of that.

Mechanicals

What the MGA does extremely well for a car of this vintage, is ride and handle with real composure. The MGA is a classic that you really can use every day, even for the longest of journeys. A combination of independent front suspension and rack and pinion steering provide accurate control. Comfort is more than acceptable. There isn’t a great deal of body roll which makes tackling a twisty B-road an enjoyable experience. The disc brakes at the front, with drum brakes at the rear, are more than powerful enough to inspire confidence. The well-known B Series engine is a joy.

• Engine, gearbox and diff all rebuilt
• Wire wheels
• Three eared spinners
• New tyres
• 1600cc engine
• 80bhp
• Twin SU carburettors
• 4 speed manual gearbox

Mileage records between 2006 to date show just 1,327 miles. Our vendor tells us; “The MG probably could probably now do with a battery and fuel, and it will be fine to drive”. He does sensibly stress, “please do not jump in and expect to drive a hundred miles”. To ensure your own safety, just use a dose of common sense, basically.

Summary

Not without good reason is the MGA agreed to be one of the best cars Abingdon ever produced. A mix of classic looks, good driving manners and ease of ownership make the MGA a great buy. The secret to getting a good one? Find one with long term ownership, well looked after and one that someone else has done all the hard work on.