The MGA Roadster was introduced in Autumn 1955 marrying the proven chassis design derived from its TD/TF predecessor with a new B-series four-cylinder, pushrod-OHV engine first used in the Magnette saloon. Its elegant styling was inspired by the Abingdon factory's successful EX182 prototype racers (5th- and 6th-in-class at that year's Le Mans) styled by MG designer Syd Enever. Receiving continuous updates, the MGA range was joined by Coupe and 'Twin Cam' variants in 1956 and 1958 respectively. The new dual-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine had a larger displacement, at 1588cc, developing 108 horsepower - a 50 percent increase over the standard four-cylinder engine. It used larger (1.75-inch) SU carburetors, hemispherical combustion chambers, inverted bucket-style tappets, cross-flow aluminum-alloy cylinder head, and 80-degree inclined valves. To cope with the increase in performance from the Twin Cam engine, it came standard with four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes.
The Twin Cam models quickly gained a reputation for poor reliability and as an oil burner. It was plagued by burnt pistons especially when driven at high RPM. MG responded by decreasing the initial 9.9:1 compression ratio, but the damage, its reputation was tarnished, and the temperamental engine became notorious for warranty problems. Approximately 2,111 examples were built before production of the Twin-Cam ended in April 1960.
The 1960 MG A received a new model designation of 1600 MK I, in reference to its newly enlarged four-cylinder engine displacement of 1588cc (96.9 cubic-inch). The over-head-valve unit had two SU semi-downdraft carburetors, three main bearings, an 8.3:1 compression ratio, and developed 80 horsepower at 5600 RPM. The exterior styling remained similar to the previous model years with the exception being the amber front turn-signal lenses. A new mechanical change was the Lockheed front disc brakes. Pricing for the roadster began at $2,445 while the coupe had a base price of $2,665. by Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2020
Related Reading : MG MGA History
The MGA began production in 1955. The styling and mechanics were different from previous MG models. The public had been given hints of its new design during the 1951 Le-Mans 24 Hour endurance race. The car was driven by George Phillips and was actually a TD Midget with body modifications. The XPAG engine that had power many previous MGs was replaced by a new power-plant. This 1489 cc four-cylinder,.... Continue Reading >>
MG produced the 'A' model from 1955 to 1962 as a roadster and a coupe. MG automobiles were produced in Abingdon, England. The name MG came from Cecil Kimber starting the brand the Morris Garage thus MG for short. The 1588cc 4-cylinder motor produc....[continue reading]
This MGA raced every season since 1991, and has been the 'first car' for three successive drivers, Bob Yarwood, Dennis Eynon, and Gary Anderson. However, in the best traditions of classic road racers, the only parts that are common to the car as it ....[continue reading]
This 1960 MG A 1600 Coupe was brought to the 2007 Monterey Sports & Classic Car Auction presented by RM Auctions, where it had an estimated value of $30,000 - $40,000. It was offered without reserve which worked well for the buyer who purchased the c....[continue reading]
UMO95 (number 38) was designated as the English entry for the 1960 Sebring 24-Hour Race and served as the model for all pre-race publicity shots to include photographs of 'Miss Sebring, 1960,' in various poses on the car. Unfortunately, two laps into....[continue reading]
A works competition MGA, UMO93 (#40) remains unrestored with approximately 6,000 original miles. Built in the Competitions Department, at the MG factory, for the 1960 Sebring 12-Hour Endurance Race, this MGA Twin Cam roadster was modified with the cl....[continue reading]
Launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1955, the MGA replaced the older T-Type MG models and represented a complete styling break from the older vehicles.....[continue reading]
This MGA was discovered after more than 35 years in dry storage. It has been driven less than 19,000 documented miles since it was delivered new to its first owner, Mr. Robert W. Durham by Consolidated Motors in Long Beach, California. It remained wi....[continue reading]
Before the official launch of the MGA, three aluminum-bodied prototypes competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans with two examples finishing the grueling race, helping to secure the company's international racing pedigree. Refinements included the additio....[continue reading]
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