Period Racer Appearance MGA enhanced with 1.8L MGB Power!

HISTORY OF THE MGA:

Although officially debuted at the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show, the MGA's 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 MG's 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 BMC's recent deal with Donald Healey for the new Austin-Healey 100.

By 1953, however, declining sales of the MG TF changed Lord's 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 MGA's 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, IT'S ALIVE! owner Jeff Homsher remarked how “much livelier and more engaging” the car felt compared to a standard MGA.

Now offered by IT'S 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 you're ready to relive the golden age of vintage motorsport, give us a call at 314-710-6600 or email Sales@ItsAliveAuto.com.