1960 MG MGA 1600 (Mk1) |

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1960 MG MGA 1600 (Mk1)

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£22,619

Mileage~21,028
TransmissionManual
Engine1.6L
LocationStroud

SOLD

1960 MG MGA 1600 (Mk1)

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy

Consigner and Editor

This well-restored example has to be considered as one of the best MGA's currently for sale.

A perfect symbol of British post-war graft, the MGA was far more than a successful export drive. The MGA, which has a motorsports heritage, was developed from the 1950s Le Mans MG TDs. Completely restyled in an appealing and aerodynamic body shell, it was fitted with a new range of B-Series engines and enhanced by disc brakes, rack and pinion steering and independent front suspension. Proving to be a perky performer with an agile driving experience, the MGA's reputation was later enhanced by the upgraded 1.6-litre twin cam engines and improved comfort. Technically simple, yet effective, the MGA is well served by clubs and specialists and attracts a lively social scene and a superb parts availability.

This is a genuine home-market 1960 MK1 1600, coming to market from ~6 year ownership, finished in "Chariot Red", with an impressive bespoke leather interior. A straight-out-of-the-box example with the benefit of a ~£32,000 restoration, that has only seen ~3,000 miles since then. It has also seen several improvements in recent years including the installation of a 5-speed gearbox. It will be sold with its original ‘Buff’ style log book, a folder full of invoices back to the late 80’s, photos of the restoration and two keys.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Jack the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

Having the new 5-speed gearbox is ideal for relaxed driving.

Jack has been a long-time enthusiast of the MG brand, having owned a TD before the MGA. Encouraged by the detailed level of restoration, he bought the car from an MG specialist over ~6 years ago, and has carried out a few upgrades that have made the car more usable.

He used it as an occasional car and attended a few classic car shows during his ownership. The lack of use and some age related problems inhibiting him using the car are the reasons why he is making the difficult decision to sell, Jack will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Jack

Vehicle Owner

Jack saved £3,960* when they
sold their MG with us.

SELLING MADE EASY

We'll take the photos & create the listing.
We'll market it to our 62K buyers & online.
You'll keep your car until it's paid for.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

The exquisite lines of the MGA are enhanced by the professional restoration and careful use.

Wheels and Tyres

The wire wheels are beautifully presented, with very little sign of age.

Fitted with a pair of 2016 Michelins tyres upfront and older Federals on the rear, all have plenty of life in them with decent tread.

Bodywork

The body is free of damage and presents positively. The door fit and panel gaps are acceptable, the passenger doors need a little encouragement to shut. They all have good seals. The underside and chassis of the car are in excellent shape, with minimal signs of wear.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The "Chariot Red" paint has been well applied and has a consistent hue. The finish displays a positive lustre and decent shine. Mild swirls are captured on the surface and a little orange peeling was spotted on the rear panels, but otherwise, the paint is free of blemishes. The nearside rear wing has a few superficial black spots.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The toughened glass windscreen is in excellent condition with good seals. The lights and lenses are well presented and we couldn't spot any issues with the quality and condition of the chrome trim. The car has been fitted with a luggage rack on the boot and front badge bar. The wing beading is in good shape.

The mohair roof is in good order, providing a snug fit and lowers and raises without issue. There are the smallest signs of wear noted but otherwise damage-free. The car also has its tonneau cover and side screens, both in good condition.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Professionally refurbished, the bespoke cabin is superbly finished.

Seats and Carpets

Professionally refurbished in tan leather, the bespoke interior has very little to mark it down. The seats are in excellent condition. There are a couple of sensible concessions to safety, including the fitting of seat belts and a fire extinguisher.

The sable wool carpets are in good shape, with little sign of wear noticed. The boot appears to have only been lightly used.

Dashboard

The dashboard finish is in great shape, with no notable issues with the switches and controls. A handful appear to be original.

The dials are all legible and everything is said to function as they should. The door cards and rear trim are tidy.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The wooden rim steering wheel, and black gear lever condition are reflected by the positive presentation of the cabin and are free of any major wear.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Mechanically robust with an upgraded 5-speed gearbox, it drives beautifully.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine fired up without hesitation, free of splutters or unwanted noises. The dashboard warning lights remained off and the exhaust remained clear of excessive smoke. Once the engine warmed up, it idled smoothly with no undulations. The engine is cleanly presented, with evidence of maintenance. A Lumination ignition kit, electric fuel pump, a new fuel tank and two new six-volt batteries have been post-restoration fittings.

The car has been professionally fitted with a Mazda MX5 5-speed gearbox by Vitesse Global in 2018, functioning without fault with no reports of any issues with the clutch. Watch the video to see the car in action.

Suspension and Brakes

The car rides smoothly as we conduct a low-speed test over uneven country roads. It didn’t reveal any knocks or thuds from the wheels, remaining free of squeaks or vibrations.

The upgraded brakes performed with confidence. Jack is happy with their feel, as no squeals or grinding are heard.

The Drive

The 1.6-litre engine warmed up quickly, pulling well on the move and feeling brisk. It was free of any rattles or rumbles. The oil pressure showed 50psi-plus at speed, as Jack told us he has never experienced any issues with it or the engine temperature. Any potential problems will be kept in check by the Kenlowe fan.

We didn’t notice any fluid seepage on the ground on the day. The steering was free of significant play, and we didn’t spot any wobbles or vibrations.

Electrics and Other

To his knowledge, everything is working on the car as it should, Jack also has a pair of Mohair side screens and a full tonneau to go with the car.

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History and Paperwork

This home market RHD car comes to market from over ~6 year ownership, was subject to a professional ~£32,000 restoration in 2002, and has seen an additional £5,600 spent on it since 2018.

Unlike most surviving MGAs in the UK, this is a genuine UK-registered model produced for the home market. It was first registered in February 1960 in Newcastle-Upon-Type and it retains its original "Buff" logbook, which documents its ownership up to the late 1970s.

It was subject to a body-off restoration with photos by an MG specialist in 2002 at the cost of ~£32,000, with further mechanical invoices going back to the late 80s. The rebuild includes a new body, respray, new chrome, cabin renovation and new roof. New running gear and engine parts are also included in the restoration.

Jack bought the car from Former Glory, a respected Oxfordshire-based MG specialist in 2018 and has only added around 500 miles since. He has since spent ~£1,800 on cosmetic, electrical and mechanical improvements on the car, on top of the fitting of the ~£3,800 5-speed gearbox.

It comes with two keys and has a selection of MOTs going back to 2003.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned an HPI check on the vehicle.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Jack will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
21-08-2018	5-Speed Gearbox
04-09-2017	MOT	20,557
20-07-2016	MOT	20,545
24-06-2015	MOT	20,423
19-08-2014	MOT	20,407
08-08-2013	MOT	20,225
20-08-2012	MOT	20,188
22-08-2011	MOT	19,876
19-08-2010	MOT	19,803
12-08-2009	MOT	19,559
12-08-2008	MOT	19,493
28-08-2007	MOT	19,442
09-08-2006	MOT	19,286
10-08-2005	MOT	19,187
05-08-2004	MOT	19,074
11-08-2003	MOT	18,833
14-08-2002	MOT	18,205