1958 MGA 1500 MK1 Roadster

Breaking with tradition, MG replaced the square-rigger T-series in 1955 with a modern, streamlined sports car designed around a strong, box-section chassis and proven BMC mechanical components. Undercutting its rivals from Austin-Healey and Triumph, the MGA went on to become a sales success, with a total production exceeding 100,000 - of these around 80 per cent ended up in the USA. The original Mark I MGA was powered by the B-series 1489cc engine developing a healthy 72 bhp, making the car a willing performer. Indeed, the MGA proved itself on the racetrack, taking fifth and sixth in class at Le Mans in 1955, while Nancy Mitchell took out two European Ladies' Rally Championships in 1956-1957. Great looking, satisfying to drive and mechanically robust, the MGA is the archetypal British sports car from the Fifties and an excellent choice for the classic car owner - particularly with a thriving network of clubs and specialists providing plenty of support to owners.