Just arrived at The Forge is this very special 1959 MG MGA Mk1 1600 Roadster – Le Mans Replica

There are some restorations that refresh a car, and others that completely redefine it. This 1959 MG MGA falls firmly into the latter category.

Built in July 1959 and supplied new to California, this genuine 1600 Roadster spent much of its early life in the dry climate of the American west before returning to the UK around 2006. What followed was an extraordinary 11-year restoration and rebuild, carried out with the aim of creating a faithful tribute to the famous MGA Le Mans cars, while incorporating a number of discreet upgrades to make it a more enjoyable car to drive today.

The result is a beautifully presented MGA that has covered very few miles since completion and was awarded first place in a pre-1960s classic class at its first show appearance in 2022.

History

The MGA's origins are closely linked to Le Mans. MG's streamlined EX175 competition cars appeared at the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans before inspiring the production MGA that followed. This car pays tribute to those famous racers without losing the character of the original road car.

Accompanying the car is an extensive history file containing invoices, receipts, photographic records of the restoration and a Heritage Certificate documenting its factory origins. It also benefits from a desirable UK registration.

Exterior

Finished in Dark Jaguar Racing Green, the paintwork presents beautifully, complemented by refurbished period alloy wheels and excellent brightwork throughout.

The restoration was carried out by marque specialists using dedicated body jigs to ensure accurate panel alignment and fit. The Californian shell meant the chassis required no structural repairs during the rebuild, something that is immediately apparent underneath where the floors and chassis remain exceptionally clean and well finished.

The underside was stone-chip protected before painting, while the chassis was correctly prepared and finished in chassis black. A full-size tonneau cover accompanies the car.

Interior

The cabin has been completely retrimmed with new red upholstery, matching quality carpets and sound insulation, creating exactly the sort of classic British sports car interior you hope to find in an MGA.

An Astrali wood-rim steering wheel, supportive bucket seats and colour-matched dashboard complete the period appearance, while a new wiring loom has been fitted throughout.

The attention to detail continues into the boot, which is neatly trimmed and presented to the same high standard as the rest of the car.

Engine & Mechanics

The original 1600cc B-Series engine has been retained and sympathetically upgraded to improve reliability and usability without compromising the character of the car.

Upgrades include:

Unleaded cylinder head conversion
Uprated camshaft
Oil cooler
Twin 1¾-inch SU carburettors
Bespoke three-into-one tubular manifold
Stainless steel Maniflow exhaust system
Electronic ignition
High-torque starter motor
Electric fuel pump

The suspension has also been improved with slight negative camber front wishbones and adjustable Spax rear dampers, giving the MGA a more planted feel while retaining its traditional driving experience.

The engine bay is presented to an exceptionally high standard, reflecting the quality of the restoration throughout. According to the owner, the carburettors and ignition timing have been professionally set up, and the car starts, idles and performs exactly as it should.

This is an MGA that has clearly been restored with enthusiasm, patience and attention to detail rather than to a deadline. The quality of the work is evident wherever you look, from the body and paint through to the mechanical specification and presentation underneath.

Importantly, it hasn't been over-modified. The upgrades are exactly the sort of improvements many enthusiasts choose for regular driving, making the car easier to use while preserving everything that makes an MGA such an enjoyable classic.

Whether you're looking for a well-sorted road car, something to enjoy on touring events, or simply one of the nicest MGA Le Mans tributes available, this example deserves serious consideration. With virtually no mileage since its comprehensive rebuild, it offers its next owner the opportunity to enjoy the results of over a decade of meticulous restoration.

Buying from The Forge Prees Ltd

At The Forge Prees, we specialise in classic, vintage and enthusiast vehicles. Every vehicle we offer is unique, with its own history, character and, inevitably, its own imperfections. Unlike modern vehicles, classic cars require a different approach to ownership, maintenance and care, as well as an appreciation of their individual quirks.

We pride ourselves on providing honest, detailed descriptions of every vehicle, supported by extensive photography and video. Our aim is to give prospective purchasers as much information as possible, allowing you to make a considered and informed decision before buying.

We strongly encourage all prospective purchasers to carry out their own inspections and research, and to ensure they are fully satisfied with the vehicle’s condition, history and ongoing requirements before committing to purchase.

Before purchasing a vehicle from The Forge, please take the time to read our Terms of Sale, which are available on our website. Alternatively, please contact us directly and we will be happy to provide a copy.