1957 MG MGA MK1 Roadster

Introduced for 1956 model year, the MGA roadster replaced the aging T-Series cars. Powered by a 68 horsepower 1,489cc overhead valve engine mated to a 4-speed manual transmission it featured independent front suspension, rack and pinion steering and a solid rear axle with leaf springs. Braking was by hydraulic drums at all corners. Sales in the first full year, (1956), were 13,394 and rose to 16,467 for 1957, by which time horsepower was up to 72 horsepower and a coupe was added. Thx Hagerty.com

For consignment, a recently restored 1957 MGA MK1 roadster in beautiful racy red. British roadsters, of course, set the standard for future generations of topless two seaters and gained a loyal following after World War II when our boys came back from Europe. In the mid-50's one of the first shops to both service and sell MGs was in nearby Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Exterior
Orient Red is the official name of the paint here and who doesn't love a red roadster! A long hood that takes the shoulder line and slopes down to a low topped door, then rising again on hump backed rear fenders, is textbook British design and will forever look good. The back leaning chrome grille sits flush with the fascia leading to a rounded hood and windshield that mirrors the lean. Side mirrors are mounted on the front fenders, while rear tail lights protrude from the back fenders. Chrome bumpers fit the car well and contain a pair of bumperettes front and rear. 15-inch chrome wire wheels are the only way to go, and they look right at home topped with knock off locks. The black vinyl soft top is in good condition though we note a tear on the front and side curtains have been added for all weather driving. Imperfections include various touch ups, nicks, scratches and a few issues with panel and door gaps.

Interior
Simple black leather panels cover the inner doors and match the black leather bucket seats, standard for the MG with the driver's seat showing a bit of wear on the point of entry. A 4 spoke banjo style steering wheel leads to a burl wood dash where a pair of large gauges relay speed and RPM's, while fuel, oil pressure, and water temp are seen in small, chrome rimmed gauges in the center. A simple shifter is floor mounted on the transmission hump and surrounded by a rubber boot while black carpet covers the floor along with MG branded carpeted mats. We do note some surface rust on metal components under the dash.

Drivetrain
A 1489cc 4 cylinder powerplant is fed by two SU H4 carburetors and is rated at 72 horsepower. The power is set into motion by a 4-speed manual transmission that in true sports car configuration, sends the power to the rear wheels where it meets 4.30 gears. Drum brakes bring it all to a stop and can be found front and rear. An aluminum valve cover tops a clean engine bay that would fare well at car shows. It's here we confirm that electronic ignition has been added to the roadster.

Undercarriage
Nicely clean and dry underneath with belly pans occupying most of the real estate underneath. The single exhaust meets a stock style muffler then heads out back via the tailpipe. Coil springs occupy the front independent suspension while leaf springs temper the bounce in the back. We note just a touch of residual oil on the rear differential but no active leaks.

Drive-Ability
Don't let the sub 100 horsepower figure throw you, these little roadsters can be a ton of fun even at low speeds. “Drive a slow car fast” is the angle here and British roadsters are known for the great handling, low center of gravity, and spirited running gear. No exception here as everything functions well and on par with a well sorted, good running MG.

There's a reason that 65 years later, MGs and British roadsters in general still have an enthusiastic following with a deep knowledge base and active clubs across North America. If you're looking for a fun weekend car for the twisties or simple jaunts to the ice cream stand, this '57 would be well worth your consideration. Seating for two only, so empty nesters take note!

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.

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