Show-Winning 1959 MGA Coupé Arrives at Forge Press

We are delighted to welcome an exceptional and rare classic to the Forge Press collection—a truly outstanding 1959 MGA 1600 Coupe that sets a benchmark for quality, provenance, and presentation.

Registration NSJ 735 is no ordinary MGA. This remarkable car has had just one owner since undergoing a meticulous, nut-and-bolt, body-off restoration carried out between 1993 and 1998 by renowned marque specialist Bob West. Since completion, the car has covered fewer than 9,000 miles, carefully preserved to maintain its exceptional standard.

Its quality was evident from the very beginning—on its first public outing, the MGA was awarded ‘Car of the Show’ at the prestigious Footman James Classic Car Show. It has since remained a regular and admired participant in the Cheshire Concours d'Esprit, consistently reflecting its show-winning pedigree.

Originally built at MG’s Abingdon factory in 1959 to North American specification, the car returned to the UK in the early 1990s in need of complete restoration. The rebuild was entrusted to Bob West’s team, with the work carried out under the expert supervision of chief mechanic James Horner. The process was comprehensive and painstaking, with a full photographic record documenting every stage.

The body was removed and completely rebuilt, the chassis restored, and all mechanical and electrical components renewed. Finished in an elegant dark blue, the car features beautifully refreshed brightwork, along with new wheels and tyres. Inside, the cabin has been fully retrimmed, with seats inspired by the iconic Le Mans MGA SRX210, and complemented by period-correct instruments including a Halda Speedpilot and Hanhart stopwatches.

Accompanying the car is an extensive history file, including invoices, MOT certificates, a restoration photo album, and workshop manuals—offering a detailed insight into the level of care and craftsmanship invested in this MGA.

Decades on from its restoration, this is not to be mistaken for an average rebuild. The quality of workmanship remains immediately apparent, with the car presenting more like a recent restoration. On the road, it is every bit as impressive as it is visually.

Arriving at Forge Press ready to be enjoyed, this is a truly special MGA Coupé—one that will be incredibly difficult to replicate.