TRUSTED NATIONWIDE • CALL 01926 293530

REGISTER TO BID
REGISTER TO BID
Account Login

Please login to bid on an auction or manage your account.

Login Details
SIGN UP
Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Sold

1961 MG MGA 1600

Sold Price

£23,584

  • Mileage~17,694 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.6-litre
  • LocationPreston

SOLD

1961 MG MGA 1600

Register interest for similar cars

Video #2

Introduction

Paul Wright
Professional Consigner

Being one of just 5,869 units sold in the UK makes this MGA a fantastic British classic to own this summer and beyond.

A perfect symbol of British post-war graft, the MGA was far more than a successful export drive. The MGA, which has a motorsport heritage, was developed from the 1950s Le Mans MG TDs. Completely restyled with an appealing, aerodynamic body shell, it was fitted with a new range of B-Series engines and enhanced with disc brakes, rack-and-pinion steering, and independent front suspension. Proving to be a perky performer with an agile driving experience, the MGA's reputation was later enhanced by the upgraded 1.6-litre twin-cam engines and improved comfort. Technically simple yet effective, the MGA is well served by clubs and specialists and attracts a lively social scene and superb parts availability.

This lovely UK-market 1961 MGA 1600 is being offered from its 29-year ownership, seeking its next long-term enthusiast keeper.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting Roger the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

“I had an MGA when I was in my early twenties, and this brought back - and has given many more - happy memories."

This is the second time Roger has owned an MGA: ever since selling his first one in his twenties, the itch to own another has never left.

29 years ago, Roger purchased this 1961 example, as it had already been treated to a cosmetic restoration, ran well, and looked superb; perfect for his plans to enjoy it as a weekend toy.

The MGA has been a great pleasure to own over the years. Roger and his wife have enjoyed many days out and rallies over his ownership. More recently, he needs something a little bit higher up and a bit more modern, which is the reason for the sale of this British two-seater classic. Roger will be happy to answer any questions in the comments section below.

Roger
Vehicle Owner

Roger saved £4,140* when they
sold their MG with us.

SELLING MADE EASY

  • We'll take the photos & create the listing.
  • We'll market it to our 62K buyers & online.
  • You'll keep your car until it's paid for.
 

PEACE OF MIND FOR BUYERS

  • They can fully review our cars online.
  • They can buy on our trusted platform.
  • They're able to buy without leaving home.
LEARN MORE

GET YOUR VALUATION

EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

From the front, over the long bonnet, the lines and curves just flow beautifully over this classic MG.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with chrome wire wheels, which are in excellent condition with only minor tarnishing on some spokes.

The tyres are a matching set of Michelins. There are some signs of age, and they have started to crack in some places. We would recommend replacement.

Please take the time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

image

Bodywork

Walking around the MGA, the bodywork presents well; all of the panels appear to have matching panel gaps, and no dings or dents were spotted.

There are some minor imperfections under the paint in places, but nothing that has broken through the paint.

We've highlighted our observations in more detail through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take the time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer and to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

image

Paint

Looking at the heritage certificate, the car was originally black. This was changed before Roger’s ownership to what is believed to be 'Old English White'.

The paintwork presents well. There is some minor microblistering in places and small blemishes when you look closely.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car and make up your own mind about the condition of the paint.

image

Glass and Trim

The windscreen is in good condition, with no excessive marks. Both the plastic side windows and the plastic rear window have some age-related marks.

All of the chrome work has a bright finish with no real signs of tarnishing. The front and rear lights are in good order with no damage to the lenses.

The red vinyl roof is fitted in just a couple of minutes and is in good condition with just the odd sign of patina.

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

image
VIEW ALL
INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

Red-coloured leather is the perfect choice to complement the white exterior of the MGA.

Seats and Carpets

It is thought that the interior is the original red leather, and, for its age, it is in very good condition. There are just a few creases and some minor stretching.

Both door cards are also in good order with no damage spotted.

The carpets in the cabin are black and are free from excessive wear and present well.

Inside the boot, the spare wheel is in place. There is also a trolley jack, a hammer, and a special wrench to remove the knock-off centre spinners.

image

Dashboard

The dashboard is mainly white, with a red leather trim to match the seats.

All instruments are present well and are said to be working correctly, with the odometer showing ~17,694 miles a the time of our visit.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The three-spoke, wood-rim Moto-Lita Classic steering wheel is in good shape with just a small amount of patina to the rim, in keeping with the age and mileage. The same can be said for the original gear knob.

image
VIEW ALL
'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

The 1600cc engine is a fantastic choice for the MGA, providing enough performance to keep you engaged.

Engine and Gearbox

The 1600cc fires up straight away with a touch of choke and comes to a smooth idle. The MG runs as it should with no issues reported by Roger.

A four-speed gearbox is fitted, which has a precise change with a solid mechanical feel.

image

Suspension and Brakes

On the road, the ride is as you would expect for an MG of this age: there were no knocks or bangs, and the car handled well.

The MG comes to a stop with ease, in a straight line and with no juddering reported through the pedal.

image

The Drive

The MG MGA 1600 is a classic British sports car, bringing a driving experience that feels engaging and mechanical by modern standards. The 1600cc engine produces modest power, but the car’s light weight, low seating position, direct steering, and responsive handling make it enjoyable on winding roads. Just what classic car motoring is all about.

image

Electrics and Other

All of the switchgear is in good order with just a light amount of age-related patina in places, but is working correctly.

Roger told us the radio hasn’t worked for some time and hasn’t been investigated and the extra spot lights at the front work intermittently - but everything else works, to his knowledge.

image
VIEW ALL
Video #2

History and Paperwork

An extensive collection of MOT certificates shows the MGA has remained in regular use over the years.

Over his ownership, Roger has never had to have any major work carried out on the car, other than routine servicing and small amounts of cosmetic work. Therefore, there aren't great stacks of paperwork for huge repairs: it has been regularly used, well maintained, and had everything it’s needed.

For anyone looking for a usable British two-seater classic, then look no further! This 1961 MGA has always been garaged during Roger’s 29-years with it, and is ready to jump in and enjoy.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks, including photo ID and V5 verification, and also carried out a history check on the vehicle. This is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has previously been stolen, recorded as being involved in an accident, or has any outstanding finance. Please note, this does not include a mileage-history check.

We've summarised our own view of the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above; however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail.
This has been done so you can make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa, and take your time reviewing everything in this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time. We just need to speak to you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, please first ask the owner in the comments section below before placing your bid(s), as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car, just like at a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
08.08.2017 MOT 16,648
04.08.2015 MOT 16,418
25.07.2014 MOT 16,316
05.11.2012 MOT 15,917
22.08.2011 MOT 15,861
14.12.2009 MOT 15,612
17.10.2008 MOT 15,473
16.08.2007 MOT 14,974
05.05.2006 MOT 14,627
23.02.2005 MOT 14,296
13.09.2003 MOT 13,944
23.08.2002 MOT 13,334
15.08.2002 Service
25.08.2001 MOT 12,994
24.07.2000 MOT 12,566
30.06.1999 MOT/Service 12,016
20.07.1998 MOT 11,475
01.04.1997 MOT 9,795
12.05.1993 MOT 8,525
04.08.1992 MOT 8,323
27.04.1991 MOT 7,964
12.07.1990 MOT 7,575
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Year1961
  • ModelMGA 1600
  • TransmissionManual
  • Reg. Date28.03.1961
  • CC1588
  • Mileage~17,694 on clock
  • ColourOld English White
  • Interior ColourRed
  • Interior TrimLeather
  • Chassis #GHN/98755
  • Engine #30070
  • RestoredPartial
  • MOT ExemptYes
  • Road Tax ExemptYes
  • HPi ClearYes
  • Former Keepers5
  • Tyre BrandMichelin
  • LHD or RHDRHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Owned~29 years, 2 months
  • Key FeatureLong ownership, usable British classic
  • Vehicle Registration823 BYK
  • Auction ID3706
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos








Vehicle Sold

Register your interest for similar cars.

This vehicle has now been sold - click 'I Want One' below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

I WANT ONE
Ask Questions
Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
5 Comments
Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Admin
1 month ago

*** RESERVE MET ***

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Adam Purrier - Trade Classics
Admin
1 month ago

*** RESERVE LOWERED*** Roger has reduced the reserve on this car ending this evening. Good luck, Adam – TC

karplased
karplased
1 month ago

Hi Roger, would you be willing to put new tyres on?

simo
simo
1 month ago

My apologies for being so direct is there a buy it now price if not then please can you keep my details if the vehicle does not sell Best wishes simon

ColinB
ColinB
Admin
  simo
1 month ago

Hi Simon,

There is no buy it now price, all our auctions need to run their length, they all have a reserve unless stated too, we can’t disclose this as it undermines the auction.

Thanks,
Colin.

MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

Vehicle Location

Preston

Delivery Calculator


Thank You


Form Submitted

Your request has been submitted successfully and we'll keep you updated.

Register Account

Please create an account to bid on our auctions and stay up-to-date by receiving our weekly auction update.

Complete Form