1961 MG MGA

HISTORY OF THE MGA: Although officially debuted at the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show, the MGAs genesis dates back to 1951 when MG designer Syd Enever created a ponton-styled body for a TD-based Le Mans racer built for privateer George Philips. While that car, designated EX176, completed only 80 laps, its design made a lasting impression on Enever and MGs engineers-who were already looking beyond the aging T-series Midget models. Two prototypes inspired by Philips Le Mans car soon followed. They featured a reworked frame with a lower center of gravity, a wider chassis, and suspended floorboards-still utilizing a body-on-frame design. When presented to BMC head Leonard Lord in 1952, the concept was initially rejected due to BMCs recent deal with Donald Healey for the new Austin-Healey 100. By 1953, however, declining sales of the MG TF changed Lords mind. As MG prepared a final iteration of the T-series, the need for an all-new sports car became undeniable. The Abingdon works intended to race at Le Mans in 1955 with a production-based car, but delays meant four prototypes were entered in the prototype class as Project EX182. Despite one car being wrecked, two finished impressively-12th and 17th overall. Production MGAs rolled off the line in May 1955, equipped with the new BMC B-Series inline-four engine, rack-and-pinion steering, and independent front suspension via double wishbones and coil springs. The model name MGA was suggested by Managing Director John Thornley and marketed as the first of a new line from Abingdon. Production continued until 1962, spanning coupe, Twin-Cam, and 1600 variants. Today, the MGA remains one of the most beloved MG models among collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. THE MOTORCAR OFFERED: Originally completed at Abingdon in February 1961, this MGA 1600 Roadster has been tastefully modified into a period-style speedster, finished in elegant Jaguar Warwick Grey over a burgundy interior with deep red cut-pile carpet. While early ownership history remains undocumented, the most recent caretaker acquired the car out of Oregon in 2005 and relocated it to Northern Illinois. A well-loved example for two decades, the car accompanied the family during a move to St. Louis in 2024. Reputedly modified under prior ownership, this MGAs exterior has been stripped of its bumpers and fitted with a shortened plexiglass windscreen, evoking the look of a late-1950s to early-1960s SCCA-style road racer. The original bumper bars, full windshield frame, and convertible top frame accompany the car today. Additional period-style touches include twin Pegasus emblems, a Mille Miglia decal, Scotland grille badge, and a Le Mans style locking fuel cap. A set of 48-spoke chrome wire wheels with twin-eared MG knock-offs complete the look-adding both vintage authenticity and curb appeal. Under the bonnet lies a performance upgrade that lives up to the looks: a later MGB 18GF 1.8-liter engine paired with a fully synchronized 4-speed gearbox. This combination gives the MGA lively performance for modern driving, with a throaty exhaust note delivered through a twin-tipped PaceSetter muffler. On a recent test drive, ITS ALIVE! owner Jeff Homsher remarked how much livelier and more engaging the car felt compared to a standard MGA. Now offered by ITS ALIVE!, this stunning MGA represents an ideal opportunity for the enthusiast who wants vintage character with a bit of extra punch. Perfect as-is or as a candidate for a 5-speed conversion or front disc brake upgrade, this MGB-powered MGA blends classic British style with real-world drivability. If youre ready to relive the golden age of vintage motorsport, give us a call at 314-710-6600 or email Sales@ItsAliveAuto.com.