1956 MGA - 4 Previous Owners/Early Production Car
The MGA is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful British sports cars ever produced. Introduced in 1955 as a dramatic departure from the traditional MG T-Series, the MGA featured sleek, aerodynamic coachwork and modern styling that perfectly captured the optimism and sporting spirit of post-war motoring. Today, the model remains one of the most sought-after classic British roadsters, admired for its elegant lines, engaging driving experience and enduring charm.
First registered in March 1956, this delightful MGA 1500 is presented in its striking factory-correct Chariot Red coachwork, beautifully complemented by a tan interior with black carpets. An early production example, it retains the desirable early dashboard instrument arrangement featured only on the earliest MGA models produced during the opening stages of MGA production, making it an especially appealing car for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Benefiting from just four previous owners from new, the most recent custodian enjoyed ownership of the car since 2008, a testament to both its quality and appeal. The accompanying history file is one of the most comprehensive we have encountered, demonstrating decades of careful ownership, thoughtful maintenance and meticulous record keeping. Remarkably, the car still retains its original buff log book and is accompanied by copied V5 documentation enabling ownership to be traced from new through to the present day. The history confirms that White Rose Engineering Ltd owned and sold the car to its next keeper in 1956, forming part of an exceptional provenance that spans over seventy years.
The extensive history portfolio includes MOT records dating back to 1978, together with a fascinating and carefully organised archive of invoices, correspondence, servicing records and owner notes. The previous owner clearly cherished this MGA, creating a detailed index-style history file with chronological timelines of work undertaken, all cross-referenced with supporting invoices and documentation. It is a wonderful insight into the life of the car and provides tremendous confidence for its next custodian.
A substantial body-off restoration was carried out between 1978 and 1982. During this period the chassis was comprehensively overhauled and the car received new front and rear wings, a replacement bonnet and extensive renewal of the chrome brightwork. More recently, the car has benefitted from continued investment and maintenance, ensuring it remains in excellent mechanical order.
In 2012 the engine was comprehensively rebuilt with the installation of a new camshaft, unleaded cylinder head, water pump, timing chain and tensioner, together with a new clutch plate. The suspension was overhauled in 2014, at which time a new steering rack and prop shaft were fitted. Further improvements followed in 2017 with the installation of a new pair of SU H4 carburettors and replacement brake and clutch master cylinders. In 2018 the car received discreet upgrades including LED rear lights and secondary rear indicators to improve visibility and safety while preserving its classic character.
Accompanying the car is a lovely collection of photographs documenting its history and restoration journey, together with a copy of "Original MGA – The Restorer's Guide to All Roadster and Coupe Models", which highlights the distinctive early dashboard instruments retained by this example.
Adding further interest to the provenance, this MGA was featured in MG Enthusiast Magazine in 2016 as part of the article "MGA Under the Microscope". The feature brought together four MGA owners who assessed and experienced each other's cars, with each participant riding as a passenger in the other three vehicles. Of this example, the article observed: "The first model of any vehicle design is normally the best styling wise, and this is no exception."
Driving exactly as an MGA should, the four-speed gearbox complements the lively and characterful 1500cc engine, delivering the engaging open-top motoring experience that has made these cars so enduringly popular. Combining attractive specification, early production features, exceptional history and long-term ownership, this is a particularly well-documented and highly desirable MGA.
A truly charming example that has clearly been treasured throughout its life, this is an MGA that would grace any collection while being equally suited to regular enjoyment on the open road.
Viewing strictly by appointment only.
Milestones believe this exceptional MGA is unlikely to remain available for long.
PRICE: £19995