MGA 1600 MKI Roadster

The MGA replaced the MG TF 1500 Midget and represented a complete styling break from MG’s earlier sports cars. Launched to the public at the 1955 Frankfurt motor show with its radically streamlined steel body the MGA was a big leap forward in technology for MG. Concerned about how such a radically streamlined car would be accepted, MG chose to debut two prototype cars at the Le Mans 24-hour race. The prototyped cars finished a very respectable 5^th and 6^th in class, powered by the new B – Series engine that had recently debuted in the MG Magnette saloon. The 1489 cc engine produced 68 bhp initially, but was soon uprated to 72 bhp. Offering impressive performance with a 0-60 mph time of just 16 seconds and onto a top speed of 98 mph. During its production a total of 101,081 cars were sold with a mere 5869 being produced for the home market. Other significant improvements included hydraulic Lockheed drum brakes all round, rack and pinion steering and independent coil spring suspension to the front and semi-elliptic springs to the rear.

The MGA 1600 Mark 1 Roadster offered here at Autostorico was first registered in 1956 in the UK as an original right-hand drive car. This stunning example is finished in Chariot Red with Tan leather interior and Black carpets. The car has three common (for MGA) modifications: with the standard factory engine exchanged for a 1600cc unleaded engine, 5 speed synchromesh gearbox and front disc brakes, which gives the car more modern driving characteristics.

Having undergone a fully documented no expense spared restoration carried marque specialist Sawford’s Classic and Sports of Cookham Dean, Berkshire. Works included removing the engine and gearbox and stripping the whole body, before a bare metal respray. The car was also subject to a full mechanical overhaul including engine, gearbox, and suspension rebuild. Other notable works included overhauling the braking system, re-wire and interior re-trim. This stunning car is in immaculate condition and benefits from 60-spoke chrome wire wheels with knock off spinners, stainless steel luggage rack, Moto-Lita steering wheel, period driving lamps, electronic ignition, Kenlowe cooling fan, battery conditioner, hood with side screens and tonneau cover.

Supplied with a history file including a current V5 registration document, previous MOT’s, buff logbook, restoration documentation, numerous invoices and other related history.

It is without doubt one of the nicest MGA’s we’ve driven.

Viewing strictly by appointment only.

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