We’ve had more than a few run-ins with MGA projects, starting with a Coupe and eventually a Roadster. It seems that there are more than a few out there that have been taken apart to be restored but never finished. With newer cars, taking on a project that’s in pieces is a scary proposition and for good reason. Taking on a 1957 MGA Roadster like David J’s, on the other hand, shouldn’t be scary at all. These cars are not only well documented, but they are incredibly simple and parts are easy to find. This one appears to need the usual work, but is complete and comes with spares!
The MGA debuted in 1955 as the TFs replacement and it was quite the departure from the T series in terms of styling and performance. To fit the low slung body and lower seating position, the chassis rails were pushed as far out as possible with the floors mounted to the bottom rather than the top of the frame. Between the rack and pinion steering, suspension design and the lower center of gravity, these are as much fun to drive as they are to look at!
What Makes It Special? Unrestored and complete, disassembled survivor. Many new parts, including entire replacement nose piece, several body panels, etc.
Body Condition: Most sheet metal suffers from surface rust only and is entirely usable for refurbishment purposes. Parts of the frame, including the A & B pillars, need replacement sections welded in. The wood floors need replacement.
Mechanical Condition: Drivetrain is complete, engine turns over and gearbox shifts, but the actual running condition is unknown. Suspension likely needs to be entirely gone over with all rubber bits replaced, etc.
David’s car is going to need some work before it can go back together, but having spent a lot of time working on these I can attest to how easy they are to work on. The biggest issues I see is the work needed on the frame and the unknowns about the drivetrain. If you are confident with your welding skills, fixing the frame shouldn’t be a difficult task, but you will want to make sure you get it right. And if either the engine or transmission need full rebuilds, an affordable upgrade is to use MGB components for improved performance and driveability.
Overall, this looks like it could be a fun project. These are great little cars to drive and this one really deserves to be put back on the road! If you’d love to take it on, you can contact David via the form below.
- Asking Price: $3,000
- Location: Hastings, Michigan
- Title Status: Missing
List your car here on Barn Finds for only $50!
If there are engine issues, another alternative is to go with a Volvo B18- B20.
They are basically bulletproof, were a common swap for older MGs, and can be built to safely deliver close to 200 hp and still be driveable.. Since the car is already apart, it would be a great candidate for a Rover/Buick aluminum V8 swap,since it would be relatively easy to strengthen the frame and replace the stock suspension with more modern components – perhaps a later model Miata
rear axle with the Torsen limited slip diff & disc brakes ?
Doug.. as an alternate idea, late ’70s MGB with Moss’s 5 speed conversion behind it, limited slips are available from Quaif, Tranex, etc., and disc brake conversions are available for all 4 corners.
What is it ? looks like future pop cans no title.