MGAs...

As stated on the GRM board, my son just bought a parts car. I've had a couple of MGBs, but never anything this old.

Great looking lines (even with the rust and missing pieces)...

Comments on these?

Stan

I mentioned it over there.. I'm not a fan of the driving position. In typical 50s British fashion, the large wheel is right in your chest. I find the B much more comfortable.

That said, the A is a fantastic car. The looks are timeless, among the best-looking cars ever, in my opinion. Mechanically, they're very simple. Probably easier to restore than a B, since they have the separate chassis. So long as the frame is solid, you'll be OK.

Lots of MGB stuff can be used to update them, and there is a healthy aftermarket, too. Be forewarned, some of the aftermarket stuff is spotty quality. Good grilles, for example, were hard to find for years until Moss took the initiative and got spot-on repros done.

Moss and Victoria British are your friends, but don't discount some of the smaller suppliers, either. Sometimes they'll have something particularly cool or hard-to-find.

They drive very well. Performance was pretty decent for the day (adequate now) but you can make 'em faster. Handling is very good... predictable and balanced, although the live axle will get unsettled on rough pavement.

Mechanically, they're pretty damn robust. Front suspensions wear out if they haven't been lubed properly. That can be a pain if the kingpins are shot. The bushings will go and cause clunks, but that's nothing to fix.

The B series engine, whether in the A's 1500/1600 form or the Bs 1800cc form, is leaky, but has nice torque and makes good sounds. They are known for head cracks between the #2 and #3 cylinders, though.

Gearboxes are not fully synchronized, but in practice its not that big a deal. You can put the Bs full-synchro box in, but it will require some gearbox tunnel "massaging".

I'm sure I'm forgetting some stuff, and other folks know more about them than me, but that's a pretty good start.

I agree about the steering wheel.

You NEED to fit a smaller diameter wheel if you are of average modern stature!

They handle very well for their time in stock form and with a few modest mods can stand up with much more modern machinery in that area.

Oh yeah.....and they don't lock. The MGA has a pullstring for a doorhandle! Way too cool!

Oh yeah, they're not the most weather-tight cars. Like most british roadsters, putting up the top and side curtains are similar to erecting a pup tent, and about as useful for keeping the weather out.

Thanks. Even with the sad state we found it in, it's a very nice looking car. My son loves the side-view... Funny thing though, my DD ('93 Eagle Summit) doesn't have an inside trunk release while the MGA does! Stan

Joe Gearin wrote: Oh yeah.....and they don't lock. The MGA has a pullstring for a doorhandle! Way too cool!

The MGA coupe at least locks - and is quite civilized!