Lot 003: 1958 MG A ROADSTER

Introduced in Autumn 1955, the MGA married a proven chassis design derived from its TD/TF predecessors (independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension and a 'live' rear axle) to the new B-series four-cylinder, pushrod-ohv engine first seen in the Magnette saloon. Borrowing cues from the Abingdon factory's successful EX182 prototype racers (fifth and sixth in class at that year's Le Mans) its wonderfully elegant styling ensured strong sales on both sides of the Atlantic. Continually updated, the MGA range was joined by Coupe and 'Twin Cam' variants in 1956 and 1958 respectively. Finished in Davos White with black leather / vinyl upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres (while, he rates the interior trim as "very good"). The subject of an extensive 'nut and bolt' restoration during which it underwent numerous upgrades, '380 CLG' is reportedly powered by a tuned "MGB 1800cc 5-bearing engine (Piper camshaft, Weber 45 DCOE carburettor, tubular stainless manifold)" allied to a "new Ford 5-speed gearbox". Further benefiting from a "new clutch, petrol tank / pump, stainless exhaust, refurbished differential and fresh UJs", the roadster has also received attention to its steering (overhauled rack, new trackrod ends), suspension (fresh springs, reconditioned shock absorbers, new king pins / trunnions / wheel bearings), brakes (uprated to front discs plus a servo, new rear shoes / cylinders) and cooling system (recored radiator, electric fan with override switch). Boasting a "new wiring loom, separate indicators, PerTronix electronic ignition and an alternator conversion", the MG rides on "Dayton 72-spoke wire wheels shod with fresh tubeless tyres". Treated to "new floorboard rails and floorboards", the chassis supports a "USA dry state sourced body assembly" that was fitted with "new F-sections and sills as a matter of course". As well as being painted with "two-pack" the roadster apparently had "all cavities, seams and box sections waxoyl filled". Sporting a "full-length tonneau, luggage rack, new hood cover, frame, and header rail (not fitted)", '380 CLG' also wears "new carpets, trim panels, sidescreens, three-point static seatbelts and re-plated / replaced chromework". Judged by the by the owner to "drive very well with 3,000rpm equating to about 80mph in fifth gear", he further comments that the car is "all set to go touring with nothing to do but put petrol in". Understood to have covered approximately 300 miles since work was completed, this appealing MGA is offered for sale with MOT certificate and historic class (free) road tax both valid until April 2008.