The MGA cycled through five distinct models over its eight-year production history: the first was the 1500, named for its engine’s displacement; then came the 1600 Mk I; the Twin Cam; the 1600 Mk II – a slight misnomer because by now the engine was displacing 1622 cc’s – and finally, the Deluxe. Both coupes and roadsters were produced in most models. By the latter stages of production, when the Mk II and the Deluxe were made, the MGA was on its last legs so examples tend to be rare. I won’t torture readers with every shred of the MGA’s development in this article – it’s enough to know that like so many brilliant British cars, it was a miracle that the MGA actually arrived for us to enjoy at all, given the wrecking ball of industrial intrigue at work in the UK at the time. Speaking of enjoyment, here on craigslist is an excellent candidate for a summer fling – this 1962 MGA 1600 Mk II roadster, with an asking price of $9000. This car is located in Hustisford, Wisconsin. Matt R. found this shiny object for us – thanks, Matt!

The MGA Mk II utilized a nearly bullet-proof BMC B series in-line four-cylinder engine displacing 1622 cc’s. Power output was 90 hp, a substantial increase over the first two series of MGAs. The 1622 head and crank differ from the more common 1600. Fewer than 9000 Mk IIs were produced, so engine parts, in general, have become rare, but particularly the heads. The transmission is a four-speed manual, with no synchro on first. The seller indicates this car has had its brakes refreshed, and the clutch cylinder and starter are new. It has wire wheels and new tubes and tires. The car is said to run fine, but it has been in a barn for over twenty years so it could use a thorough check-up.

The interior is surprisingly intact after the car’s long slumber. New seat covers might be on the docket, and from experience I can say that while you’re doing that, buy new seat foams. If you are shorter than 5’6″ and the seats are broken down, you’ll have a hard time seeing over the dash. This car has a homemade blanking plate where the radio would be; new ones are readily available. The gearshift has a pleasingly short throw; I can’t see the handbrake but it should be nestled between the tunnel and the driver’s seat. It’s great to see an original steering wheel in decent condition, but I dislike those bullet mirrors. No word on the convertible top, top frame, or side curtains.

So “Daisy” here is not wearing an original color and her engine bay and trunk should be body color – clearly someone has had his way with customization in the past. Typical surface rust plagues the trunk but what concerns me more is the close fit of the doors and the wavering edges of the sills. Could be the photos, but I would want to inspect the frame and sills closely. If you merely want to date Daisy for the summer, the price might be tolerable given that she’s a Mk II; but if you intend to marry her, I’d want a discount.