This is a rare find. A single previous owner of a California “Black Plate” MG A 1600. The present owner has had this motorcar since 2005 and has competed a no-expense spared concours quality body-off restoration. This MG A is presented in stunning condition and is ready for concours competition or touring.

The MG A was so revolutionary — envelope-bodied, low, and sleek — that MG started all over at the beginning of the alphabet and named it the MG A. It was a pure two-seater sports car with bucket seats and an instrument panel boasting a huge speedometer and tachometer.

It thus became the first MG sports car to employ BMC’s “B-Series” four-cylinder engine, four-speed gearbox, and a new type of hypoid-bevel rear axle. Along the way, the MGA was treated to gradual but perceptible improvements in displacement, power, and equipment. The MGA 1600 debuted in 1959 with its overhead valve four cylinder engine boosted to 1,588 cc and 80 bhp. Further, the MGA boasted Lockheed front disc brakes as standard equipment, very advanced for its time.

From the exterior, the 1600 was distinguished by its “two-tier” taillights and discreet “1600″ badging on the decklid and next to the air vents near the cowl. As with all MG As, the grille was a lowered and laid-back version of the “classic” grille seen on the old T-Series MG. Consistent with its modern streamlined appearance, exterior door handles were not provided, giving the car a clean custom appearance.

This stunning MG A was built in England during July 12-14th 1960. The British Heritage certificate is proof to it’s heritage.

The MG A was bought new in Connecticut from Faiola Brothers Cars in Farmington, CT on January 2, 1961 by Mr. Keith McKee. Mr. McKee was enlisted in the Navy and enjoyed the MG A for 40 years! By 1964, Mr. McKee had moved to Gunnison, Colorado and then later to San Diego, CA. The present owner and our client, Randy Lockett, bought the MG A from Mr. McKee in 2005.

In 2005 and 2006, Mr. Lockett competed a full, no-expense spared restoration. The thorough work was performed by the master craftsmen and engineers at The Toy Shop in Bonita, CA. The results of this body off restoration speak for itself. The car is a stunning concours winner. The owner will pass on his extensive history file of receipts. In addition, as one can see from our photo gallery, the restoration is fully documented with photographs as well. Every piece of the car, every nut and bolt was either replaced or restored. The chassis and drivetrain were completely rebuilt with the cosmetics returned to new standards without being over-restored with high gloss, chrome, etc. This is what a new MG A looked like. And the results are stunning.

The coachwork maintains its original color combination of sexy and sporty red with soft and rich black correct interior. The distinctive look of the factory-spec paint and interior color combination is completed by Grey fender welting which subtly highlights the MG A’s streamlined full envelope design like a painted coachline.

The custom made stainless steel luggage rack, chrome wire wheels and knock offs are all new and in perfect condition.

The engine and drivetrain are in excellent, “as new” condition. The motorcar intermittently puffs smoke, most likely a result of not being used as often as it wishes! It will satisfy the most demanding MG owner or first time collector looking for a quality sports car that can be driven to shows and events and then polished up and shown with pride and pleasure.

This is a proper sports car that is waiting to be enjoyed by its new owner. Please feel free to contact us about this motorcar, but don’t wait too long. What is more desirable than a two owner, black plate California MG A 1600 that has been fully restored?

For more details please call Harry Clark at +1.602.245.7200 or email us at harry@classicpromenade.com.