1959 MGA 1600 Roadster

'Throughout its history, the policy of the MG company has been to compete with cars developed from their standard production models, and the 1955 Le Mans car, designated EX 182, is a further example of this policy,' reported Autocar in its June 3rd edition of 1955. Just three months later the respected British motoring magazine was able to reveal that the policy had indeed born fruit: 'From these Le Mans cars, known as the type EX 182, has been developed the production series MGA. It is apparent that the experiment of Le Mans was considered successful, as the car shows no basic changes from those which took part in the race, but detail modifications have been made for normal road use.'

In fact, by the time Le Mans came around the design of what would be known as the MGA had effectively been finalised, the race itself being little more than a useful opportunity to check that everything was as it should be. Conceived as replacement for the traditional T-Series MGs, the MGA combined a rigid chassis with the Austin-designed, 1,489cc B-Series engine that had first appeared in the ZA Magnette. Initially this engine produced 68bhp at 5,500rpm, although this was later raised to 72bhp at the same revs to further improve performance. Running gear was based on that of the TF, with independent front suspension and a live rear axle, but as far as its road manners were concerned, the far superior MGA was in an entirely different league. Clad in a stylish aerodynamic body and capable of topping 95mph, the MGA proved an instant hit, selling 13,000 units in its first full year of production.

This MGA roadster has undergone extensive restoration, including a complete body rebuild and repaint; full interior re-trim in leather; new mohair tonneau cover; new bumpers and grille; new chromed wire wheels; and new tyres. The fact that the engine's main crankshaft seal has been modified is also worthy of note. Described by the vendor as in generally excellent condition, this has to be one of the best MGAs currently available. The car is offered with sundry restoration invoices, current MoT, and a V5 registration document. This MGA's rebuild was covered in depth on Mike Brewer's 'Wheeler Dealer' television series (Discovery Channel, Season 12, Episode 3).