1959 MGA Competition Roadster

• Present ownership for the last 34 years
• Built by the vendor to racing specification
• Competed successfully in over 250 races since 1995
• Eligible for numerous Historic series and events
• Large quantity of spares included

Although three EX182 prototypes were entered at Le Mans in 1955, by the time the actual race came around the design of what would be known as the MGA had effectively been finalised, the event itself being little more than a useful opportunity to check that everything was as it should be. Although Dick Jacobs' car crashed, the other two MGA prototypes finished 5th and 6th in their class behind three very quick Porsches. MG could scarcely have hoped for a better debut.

Replacing the traditional T-Series MGs, the MGA combined a rigid chassis with the Austin-designed, 1,489cc B-Series engine. Initially the latter produced 68bhp at 5,500rpm, though this was later raised to 72 horsepower at the same revs. Running gear was based on that of the TF, with independent front suspension and a live rear axle, but as far as its road manners were concerned the far superior MGA was in an entirely different league. Clad in a stylish aerodynamic body and capable of topping 95mph, while benefiting from its association with Le Mans, the MGA proved an instant hit, selling 13,000 units in its first full year of production.

The vendor has owned this MGA for 34 years and has rebuilt it as a race car. Since 1995 he has competed in over 250 races with the MG, enjoying a measure of success over the years. It currently has a race-tuned 1,840cc BMC B-Series engine installed. Described by the vendor as in excellent condition, this engine incorporates a steel crankshaft; Arrow connecting rods; forged pistons; gas-flowed cylinder head; race camshaft; and many other competition modifications. The gearbox is a Jack Knight straight-cut four-speed three-synchro unit recently rebuilt by MG Motorsport.

The aforementioned 250-plus races entered over the last 31 years have included those of the Thoroughbred Sportscar Championship; MGCC BCV8 Championship; CSCC Swinging Sixties Series; Equipe '50s Series, etc. In all that time the car has had only two accidents: at Cadwell Park in 1999 and Snetterton in 2005, both caused by a broken kingpin and resulting in only a damaged front wing. New stronger kingpins have been fitted.

The MGA comes with a substantial history file of bills and race results. There are also numerous spare parts to include two sets of race wheels and tyres; alternative-ratio differentials; half-shafts; passenger seat; spare fire extinguisher; extinguisher cables; brake drums and shoes; throttle cables; ignition distributors (several); water pump; wheel bearings; rear wheel hubs; etc. Offered with a V5C.