Tuesday

ELEVENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

1968 MGA

A rare, wonderfully equipped and well sorted, 1959 MGA Coupe. The stylish lines echo the XK120 Coupe. We have serviced and improved this car for the last three owners, with combined ownership covering over 35 years. This car now has very unique looks and specifications. The current owner made many upgrades in our shop so he could use the car on vintage rallies. He wanted this car to be exceptionally appointed inside and equipped to perform effortlessly over long distances. The car is now fitted with a 1840cc MGB five main engine, backed by a Moss 5 speed transmission. To insure the car would handle and stop, the front suspension was upgraded to MGB complete with disc brakes. The final differential ratio was changed to 3.90 from 4.22 to take full advantage of the overdrive gear. To ensure smooth, shimmy-free, high speed driving, 15X6 8 spoke Superlite alloy wheels were fitted. The end result is a reliable well balanced coupe that can keep up with modern traffic. All mechanical work has a mere 2500 miles since completion. This car is well sorted and ready to drive.

This MGA is fitted with a stunning interior. The leather seats are comfortable and have a proper patina free of flaws. The carpets are new, wool type, well-padded and nicely installed. The under carpet at the transmission has been padded with a thermal heat barrier. The headliner is new and the white color makes the interior feel more spacious. The original dash was sent to Madera Concepts to have a stunning book matched walnut veneer installed and then finished like fine furniture. The real wood steering wheel complements the dash and is a pleasure to hold. The interior looks even better in person.

All mechanical work was done with no expense spared. Approximately $20,000 was spent to make this the best equipped MGA coupe. MGB five main engine bored +40 balanced, fitted with large intake valves and a mild camshaft that has been degreed for best performance. The transmission is a 5-speed full syncro overdrive on top gear. Front suspension is all new including shocks and disc brakes. The diff is a rebuilt 3:90 unit. All brake and clutch hydraulics were replaced with new cylinders and hoses. Radiator has been upgraded and car runs cool even on hot days. Starts, runs and drives very smoothly and as a bonus it is very quiet at cruising speeds. All dash controls and gauges work.

Body is very solid and has no signs of serious accident damage or rust. The chrome is good to excellent, with only a minor dent on the l/h front bumper. Paint work is a nice warm shade of white and is smooth and glossy. The chassis is very straight and solid. Glass is all good. The doors close well and panel gaps are all good.

New 15X6 Superlite alloy wheels with 195/60 tires. Approximately 3,000 miles on set. The true and well balanced wheels make for some smooth driving and excellent cornering.

This car is a pleasure to drive. It starts easily, has excellent power, and retains a nice steady idle. The five speed transmission is effortless to shift, makes the car quiet, and really performs well. The interior view from the driver’s seat is great and the dash gives a sense of richness that nothing short of a Jaguar can match. This car is comfortable to drive and performs way above a regular MGA. A car good for years of reliable touring, and is a great alternative to a Porsche 356 coupe. This is a wonderful car to tour or rally.

Located in Oregon...1-541-683-6101

photo and edited text credit: Sports Car Shop