Rotisserie Restoration
Same ownership for 33 years
A Classic British Sports Car
This 1961 MGA 1600 Roadster is a quintessential representation of British automotive engineering, elegance and performance of a bygone era. The car offered here was built in 1960 and subsequently titled as a 1961. This iconic vehicle, produced by the MG (Morris Garages) division of the British Motor Corporation (BMC), has benefitted from a rotisserie restoration, performed under the current ownership in 1992.
The exterior of the 1961 MGA Roadster is a masterclass in classic automotive design. Its sleek, voluptuous curves and low-slung body exude a sense of speed and sophistication. This examples body and paint has survived the years with little evidence of the 3 decades of enjoyment since its restoration. The car’s owner has performed ongoing maintenance and care, ensuring its continued reliability and award winning livery.
Recent services include:
New Steering wheel
New Brake hoses
New Front brakes and rotors
New Rear brakes and pistons
New Fuel sending unit
New turn signal switch
Oil change
Adjusted clutch
Adjusted brake pedal
Adjusted, cleaned emergency brake cable
Additionally, within the last few years the Tires, Battery and Interior door panels were replaced.
Interior Comfort and Style
The interior features a minimalist yet stylish design, with a focus on driver engagement and comfort. The seats, upholstered in high-quality leather, offer a snug and supportive fit. The dashboard, with its simple yet elegant layout, houses a set of clear and easy-to-read analog gauges mounted in an upgraded finished burlwood panel
Convertible Top
One of the defining features of the MGA Roadster is its convertible top, which can be easily folded down to enjoy open-air motoring. The manual operation of the soft top is straightforward, allowing for quick transitions between open and closed configurations. Both aftermarket side curtains as well as a Tonneau cover are included. While the convertible top material shows some wrinkles from long term storage in the stowed position, the material remains in excellent condition.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, this 1961 MGA Roadster is powered by a robust 1.6-liter inline-four engine, which produces around 79 horsepower. While this may seem modest by today’s standards, the lightweight construction of the MGA ensures that it delivers lively and engaging performance. The engine is mated to a four-speed manual transmission, allowing the driver to fully exploit the available power. Both the engine and transmission have been regularly serviced and operate as they should.
Chassis and Suspension
The MGA Roadster features a well-engineered chassis and suspension setup, which provides a balanced and responsive driving experience. The car features independent front suspension, combined with a live rear axle and leaf springs. The rack-and-pinion steering system further enhances the vehicle’s agility, making it a joy to drive on winding roads.
Braking System
The braking system features hydraulic disc brakes up front and drum brakes in the rear. While not as effective as modern brakes, the system provides adequate stopping power for the car’s performance capabilities. The brakes are responsive and provide a good level of feedback to the driver.
Reliability and Maintenance
The 1961 MGA Roadster is known for its mechanical simplicity, which makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair. The car is very well supported with a comprehensive array of reproduction parts that are readily available. In addition, there are many clubs and enthusiast groups that are very active. Included with this car is the Engine crank, Spare tire and a grouping of service manuals.
Conclusion
This MGA 1600 Roadster is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Its timeless design, engaging performance, and classic British charm continue to make it a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors. Whether driven on a scenic country road or displayed at a classic car show, the MGA Roadster embodies the spirit of motoring pleasure and remains an enduring icon of automotive history.
