1961 MG MGA 1600 MKI Roadster

The MGA was introduced in September of 1955 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The T-Series styling, with its traditional upright stance, was replaced with streamlined bodywork derived and inspired from a series of racing prototypes. It combined a rigid chassis with the Austin-designed B-Series engine. During its first year of production, sales reached 13,000 units.

The MGA was in production from July 1962 with the 1600 MKII being the final model variant. Power was initially source from a 1498cc version of the B-Series engine fitted to a four-speed gearbox. In 1959, MG introduced the 1600 model equipped with the larger 1588cc engine, disc brakes in the front, and rigid framed side screens with sliding windows. Two years later, MG introduced a facelifted MKII version. The 1622cc engine with the 'big valve' head offered 90 horsepower and was given a revised 4:1 rear axle.

The 1961 MGA 1600 MK I was powered by a 1588cc overhead-valve four-cylinder engine offering 80 horsepower. It was essentially a push-rod overhead-valve version of the Twin-Cam engine, but with a lower compression ratio. Visual changes include amber front turn-signal lenses. Front disc brakes were now standard.

The cost of the 2-door roadster was $2450 while the coupe sold for $2,670.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2019