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In a Barn Since ’76: 1956 MGA Roadster

This 1956 MGA has been in a barn since 1976, but the seller claims the engine still turns over. No other info is provided, but hopefully, its Topeka, Kansas location means it’s nice and dry underneath. It looks reasonably complete overall, with body panels, lenses, and trim all, by and large, accounted for, and paint appearing largely consistent – though we have no idea if it’s original. Still, there could be a good foundation for a rescue here, so check out the MGA here on Facebook Marketplace for $7,500.

MGAs have a strong following among British car enthusiasts, and it’s pretty clear as to why: this is the quintessential “look” for a British roadster, right up there with an E-Type or Austin Healey, for a pittance compared to the going rate for one of those in project form. I get that the powertrain isn’t nearly as exotic and that, in general, there are good reasons for the price difference, but if you’ve been looking for a classic British roadster on a budget, an MGA is a fine choice. Around back, you can see an old-school license plate practically embalmed in the paint.

The interior looks reasonably complete, especially for a car that’s supposedly been sitting for decades. Whether it’s had a soft top in that time is unknown, but the floors appear to be present and the seat upholstery isn’t too rough. The dash panel looks largely original and matches the exterior color, and all gauges appear to be intact. The MGAs were spartan affairs in the purest roadster tradition, so don’t expect too much in the way of luxuries once insider – but as well all know, the upside is there’s less stuff to break or repair.

The engine bay is covered in Kansas dust, but it looks complete and doesn’t any ominous signs of rodent damage. The paint seems to match the exterior underneath the hood, and the firewall and panel inside the trunk all correspond with the red exterior. While the lack of information from the seller is a bummer, you can reasonably ascertain from details like the original tool kit still residing in the trunk that this MGA wasn’t a total disaster when it went into the barn, and could hopefully be revived without too much effort in the present day.

Comments

  1. Avatar SMDA

    Put the British car in storage in honor of the Bicentennial, how fitting. Quite the party that day as I recall. When things get back to normal, this country should have another big celebration. We could call it VV Day.

    Like 1
  2. Avatar Gaspumpchas

    May be from Kansa, Toto, but its still sitting on dirt. Less stuff to break or repair- you are forgetting about the Lucas electrical system (prince of Darkness), insert Lucas joke here. Get underneath and look at every sq inch. Might turn out to be a good candidate. Friend had one of these that was his daughters, he spent every weekend fixing it, 50 yrs down the road? make sure you bring mucho duct tape, and baling wire!
    Cheers
    GPC

    Like 0
  3. Avatar bobhess Member

    If you don’t see rust coming through those rockers you have a chance you found a car worth rebuilding. They usually are the first to go. Frames are pretty hefty up to a point and I’d bet this one isn’t too bad. No recent bodywork evident. Could be the one that shouldn’t get away.

    Like 2
  4. Avatar Jim Simpson

    Everything is available for this car–including rocker repair panels. ( if needed) . As an owner of many award winning MGA’s, all I have to say is–when finished spending $25 grand or more on it, – you will have a car that typically sells for under 30 grand- even as a perfect gem.. This is a result of the fact that the majority of MGA owners have never been in the upper income classes, and have managed to hold down to a minimum the perceived resale value of true sweat and labor. Thus, as is the case for many affordable icons, restoration of this car will be a ” a labor of love.” As such, it could be an actual “deal”. Yet, not at $7600. Get real for the market it entertains!

    Like 3
  5. Avatar Johnny

    Love at first sight-can burn you. I like it,but as JimSimpson–not at $7,600. He,s worked on them and better listen to a man with experience. I could see myself tinkering on this and bring it back to live and looking new again,but I wouldn,t just look at it. I,d drive it and enjoy it.

    Like 1
  6. Avatar jerry hw brentnell

    better get ahold of that english guy off that car show and let him tear into this mr know it all can restore it and sell it for a big profit! that show is as bad as ice road truckers total bs!

    Like 1
  7. Avatar Jim

    That British show is much less BS than most others. At least they work on fixing things like most of us. They dont take a great classic, shave everything, drop everything, then throw an LS in it- all in 22 minutes. They work on lots of different vehicles, not 75% Chevy/Camaro/C10 like most others until I’m sick to watch any more. Its also a plus the presenters can use the English language, are not obnoxiously loud, and don’t do stupid burnouts in the shop parking lot assuming that’s informative or entertaining to the audience.

    Like 6
  8. Avatar dogwater

    Cheer-E O

    Like 0

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