Thoughts on MGA ownership?

[twobone]

Hi

I’m looking at a restored 57 MGA

It’s been converted to a lemans tribute with a bumper delete

4 speed box
1622 engine

Assuming it’s in good restored condition what are some of the good and bad of mga ownership?

[manbridge 74]

I believe it has a crankshaft supported by only 3 main bearings. Go easy on the revs.

[lgb240]

Small world...is it the silver or red one on kijiji?
The silver one has been on kijiji for 6 months, starting at a price that could get you a decent twin cam. Not a great value, granted I haven't seen the car in person. Still over priced in my opinion even at the reduced price. It's a tough sell, as some of the modifications are personal taste.
The red one is very good value. I know the owner and it's a very good car that has been done such that the modifications can be reversed in a couple of hours. It's a strong car and a really good runner, with money spent on anything that it needed. It's the better buy in my opinion.
I have 3x MGA's ... a daily driven street car, an ex sebring race car and a pile of bits parts car.
Feel free to Pm me with any specific questions you have.
Good luck, either car will be fun to drive, and are relatively bullet proof if sorted.

[lgb240]

Originally Posted by manbridge 74

I believe it has a crankshaft supported by only 3 main bearings. Go easy on the revs.

3 main are inherently weaker, however I race with a few colleagues that are reving past 8k consistently without issues (So far!!) Given, the engines are built a little better than the typical street car.

[manbridge 74]

Yes, I recall working on these in the 90s and machining tolerances were all over the place. Seemed the parts were not made of quality steel/iron. I’d imagine the after market has filled in the gaps...

[john walker's workshop]

I've been having carnal thoughts about them lately. Used to work on a lot of british cars in my teens. Shoulda got that e type when they were $2500.

Originally Posted by john walker's workshop

I've been having carnal thoughts about them lately.

I think he just wants to buy one, John.

[LWJ]

Yes! I had a 5 main 65 B and my buddy still has his perfect 63 B and a twin cam.

3 mains are fine.

Safety Fast!

[Bill Douglas]

On the plus side of things. You will be an excellent mechanic within the next six months of ownership.

[petrolhead611]

How long will it stay rust free. These are really slow cars by modern standards( they weren't fast when new compared to a TR)

[SteveDraz]

Love my '57. Easy to work on and tons of parts suppliers out there.

[targa911S]

having owned a bunch of MGB's...etc, unless it has overdrive, they are slow moving city cars. My 914 is tons more fun to drive.. You want a fun English car to drive? Buy an original mini. You won't be going faster than the MGA, but it's a LOT more fun to drive.