Lot 435: 1956 MG MGA 1500 Roadster

For the debut of its new MGA in 1955, MG wisely chose that year's Le Mans 24 Hour race. After a succession of open-wheeled models, there were fears of an adverse reaction to such a streamlined car and it was felt that by showing the MGA in competition first that the aerodynamic shape would be accepted as a performance essential. There had been some delays however, in getting the go-ahead for production, MG owner BMC declining, having already agreed with Donald Healey to build the Austin Healey 100; it was the success of a highly streamlined MGA prototype which took several records up to 153mph which finally persuaded BMC to relent. The competition successes of the ZA Magnette had already proven the potential of its new 1,498cc four cylinder engine and this was chosen for the new MGA. With 68bhp at 5,550rpm, soon raised to 72bhp, the MGA was capable of 0-60mph in 15 seconds and 97mph top speed while the predictable handling, via independent coil spring front suspension and live leaf-sprung rear axle, was almost foolproof. The car was an instant success and in 1956 the roadster was joined by a fixed head coup. The high performance MGA model, the Twin Cam, was launched in 1958. With aluminium crossflow cylinder head, larger SU carburettors and 1,588cc capacity, power rose to 108bhp at 6,700rpm, as did top speed to 115mph with 0-60mph reduced to an impressive 9.1 seconds. It had all round Dunlop disc brakes and centre-lock disc wheels. Production ceased in April 1960 with 2,111 examples made. This 'A' has benefited from a ground-up restoration between 1997 and 1999 costing in excess of 12,000. It has a signed restoration report from Hatch Beauchamp Garage and a photographic record of the restoration. It is also supplied with V5C registration document and MoT to July 2006 together with previous V5, original registration book and all MoTs since restoration. The car has been kept in a garage, under cover, and not driven in the wet since its restoration The mileometre was replaced in 2001 at around 79,900 miles, since then, the car has completed around 500 miles. Given the care which this car has received, it is hardly surprising that the owner describes it as being good to excellent in every respect.