BF Classified: 1960 MGA Roadster

• Seller: David B rill (Contact)
• Location: Oakdale, Connecticut
• Mileage: 31,000 Shown
• Chassis #: BL166AV6653
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 1500cc Inline-4
• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual

Sometimes the history of an old car is nearly as interesting as driving it, and this MGA certainly qualifies. It has been titled and registered as a 1960 MGA for nearly four decades, yet closer examination indicates that its body and 1500cc engine date from 1956 while several visible and mechanical components are from a later MGA 1600. The paperwork story may require some explaining, but beneath it is a rust-free British roadster that has spent 22 years with its current owner and is said to be an excellent driver. Located in Oakdale, Connecticut, it is offered as a Barn Finds Classified for $20,000.

The unusual identity appears to trace back to a repair shop where the car had reportedly been left for years. According to the history supplied by the seller, an office fire destroyed the original paperwork and VIN tag. A later owner obtained an alternate VIN through New York, and a replacement MG data plate was affixed. That VIN does not conform to normal MGA coding, although the car has subsequently been titled and registered as a 1960 MGA.

Further investigation suggests the body itself is stamped as a 1956, while the engine is described as a 1956 high-compression 1500. However, the grille, emblems, driving lights, taillights, brake master cylinder, and front disc brakes are described as MGA 1600 components. So, what exactly is it? Probably not the MGA for the buyer obsessed with matching factory numbers. But for someone who wants to actually drive an MGA, the story may be less important than the car underneath.

The bright red lacquer finish is believed to have been applied many years ago and remains shiny. There are nicks, scratches, some bubbling attributed to old preparation work, and imperfections on the left rear wing, but the current owner says the bubbling has not changed significantly over the last decade. More importantly, the seller describes the body and frame as rust-free. The underside shows only minor surface corrosion on a few suspension components, while the MGA’s wooden floors have been replaced with clear-coated marine-grade plywood.

The current owner has cared for the MG since 2004 and even built a garage with a lift for it. Routine maintenance was performed at home, while more involved work was entrusted to local import specialists. Upgrades include an Advanced Distributors electronic-style distributor, FlameThrower coil, K&N air cleaners, and a custom tan tonneau cover. The wheels were powder-coated black when replacement MasterCraft 165R15 tires were fitted about ten years ago.

Inside are tan leather bucket seats, matching door cards and armrest, black carpeting, and a wood dashboard installed in place of the original red metal unit. Importantly, that original dash is included. The gauges, wipers, turn signals, headlights, and blower operate, with the horn listed as the only inoperative electrical component. The folding vinyl top is in good condition with clear windows, and the original side-screen frames are included, although their plastic panels will require replacement.

The real appeal arrives when the starter is pulled. The seller reports approximately 65 PSI of oil pressure on startup, settling near 50 PSI at warm idle. Twin SU carburetors feed the 1500cc four-cylinder, which is paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. The clutch is said to engage properly, the gearbox shifts easily, steering is precise, and the combination of front discs and rear drums stops the lightweight roadster effectively.

The odometer shows 31,000 miles. The seller believes that figure could conceivably be accurate given the car’s long period of inactivity, though actual mileage is unknown.

This MGA probably won’t win a concours based on pedigree, and the seller doesn’t pretend otherwise. What it offers instead is arguably more useful: a solid, cared-for roadster that starts easily, drives properly, looks good from ten feet away, and has enough quirks in its history to guarantee conversation whenever the hood goes up. If your idea of MGA ownership involves driving rather than judging, this one deserves a closer look.