Buyer’s Guide — MG MGA
What to know before buying an MG MGA.
Overview
The MG MGA was produced from 1955 to 1962, with approximately 101,000 built across all variants. It represented a clean break from the traditional MG T-series with its modern, streamlined body. Available as roadster and coupe, with 1,489 cc and 1,588 cc B-series engines, plus the rare Twin Cam variant. The MGA was MG’s first truly modern sports car and remains one of the most attractive.
Model Variants
| 1500 (1955–59) | 1,489 cc, 68 bhp, most common |
| Twin Cam (1958–60) | 1,588 cc DOHC, 108 bhp, rare and problematic |
| 1600 (1959–61) | 1,588 cc, 80 bhp, front disc brakes |
| 1600 Mk II (1961–62) | 1,622 cc, 86 bhp, final and most refined |
What to Look For — Body & Chassis
| Chassis | Box-section steel chassis. Check for corrosion at all crossmembers, spring mounts, and outriggers. Surface rust is normal; perforation is serious. |
| Sills | The sills are structural — check inner and outer sills carefully. Soft metal means expensive repairs. |
| Door Skins | Rust at bottom edges. Replacements available. |
| Rear Wings | Check around wheel arches for corrosion and filler repairs. |
| Floor Pans | Rot from beneath — lift carpets and check from both sides. |
What to Look For — Mechanical
| Engine | B-series pushrod engine is tough and easy to rebuild. Check oil pressure (50+ psi cold, 30+ hot at speed). Twin Cam engines are more complex and can be expensive if not properly maintained. |
| Gearbox | Four-speed, non-synchro first on early cars. Check for smooth changes and no jumping out of gear. |
| Brakes | Drums all round on 1500; front discs on 1600/1600 Mk II. Check for proper operation and no pulling. |
| Steering | Rack and pinion — should be precise. Check for play and worn track rod ends. |
Parts Availability
Excellent — Moss Motors, Scarborough Faire, Victoria British, and others carry comprehensive parts. The B-series engine parts are plentiful and affordable. Body panels and trim are readily available.
What a Good One Should Feel Like
Light, responsive, and eager. The MGA should feel quick for its era with direct steering and good brakes (especially the disc-braked 1600). The engine should rev freely and pull well. The car should feel planted in corners with predictable handling. Wind noise with the top down is part of the experience.
Price Guide (Approximate, 2026)
| 1500 Roadster — Project | $18,000 – $30,000 |
| 1500 Roadster — Good Driver | $35,000 – $55,000 |
| 1600/Mk II Roadster — Excellent | $60,000 – $85,000 |
| Coupe — Typically | 10–20% less than equivalent roadster |
| Twin Cam | $50,000 – $120,000+ depending on condition |