1959 MGA Twin-Cam Roadster
The MGA hit the scene in 1955 marking the end of the beloved, but outdated T-Series. The pretty little MGA was fresh and modern, with new fully enveloped styling and the classic British sportscar simplicity. Powering the A was a robust 1500 (later 1600) BMC B-Series inline four, initially rated at 68bhp, which gave the lightweight roadster respectable zip. But engineers at MG were eager to inject more serious performance into the new car, with the hope of returning the marque to the world stage of motorsport. They devised a twin overhead-cam cylinder head atop a high-compression, modified B-series block, raising output up to 108 bhp and transforming the docile MGA into a proper sports car. In conjunction with the boost in power, the Twin Cam got four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes and beautiful Dunlop pin-drive alloy wheels similar to the Jaguar D-Type. Beyond the wheels and the subtle Twin-Cam? badges, there was little to differentiate it from the standard MGA until you got behind the wheel, of course!
Just 1,788 Twin Cam roadsters built during the short production run, including this 1959 example. Restored under previous ownership and finished to a standard rarely seen on these cars, it is a particularly outstanding Twin Cam that is truly a joy to drive. According to the accompanying BMIHT Certificate, this is an original left-drive car, completed in February of 1959 and delivered new to the USA. It left the factory finished in Orient Red over a black interior, equipped with sliding side screens, plus the standard disc brakes and Dunlop wheels.
The previous owner reported that this car spent many years on the West Coast and particularly in New Mexico, and was therefore a remarkably solid, virtually rust-survivor when he had it professionally restored. He elected to refinish the car in this classic combination of British Racing Green over a dark tan leather interior, and it is reasonable to suggest this car is restored to better-than-new standards, with excellent panel fit, paintwork, and an emphasis on driving enjoyment. The seats are trimmed in supple tan leather, with matching door cards, dash, and cockpit rails. The odometer shows approximately 1,900 miles, believed to be the mileage covered since its restoration. Attesting to its quality, little more than minor adjustments were required when it arrived in our care.
For those familiar with standard MGAs, driving this marvelous Twin Cam is a revelation. The engine revs freely and pulls eagerly through the gears, with a fizzy character that feels rather more Italian than traditionally British. The agile and featherlight chassis allows the little MGA to keep up with bigger guns on a twisty road especially with the Dunlop disc brakes - while the quality and integrity of this car?s restoration shine through with each passing mile.
Suitable for spirited driving on rallies and touring events, this marvelous and rare Twin Cam MGA punches above its weight and will undoubtedly offer its next custodian many miles of pure, unfiltered driving joy.
