1958 MG A 1600 Twincam Roadster

Lot details
Registration No: XSU 149
Chassis No: YD3/1312
Mot Expiry: T.B.A.

Keen to (a) extract more power from the 1500cc B-Series engine then powering its MGA and Magnette models, and (b) once again create an MG model suitable for competition, BMC began evolving a DOHC version of the four-cylinder unit in 1954. Development was slow, however, and it was not until 1958 that the Twin-Cam MGA finally came to market. The specification of chain-driven camshafts nestling atop a cross-flow alloy cylinder head augured well, and the 1588cc, 108bhp newcomer did not disappoint, reputedly being capable of 0-60mph in 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 115mph. With Dunlop disc brakes all round, the model stopped well too. However, the tardiness of its introduction, early engine maladies and fierce competition from such motorsport-proven rivals as the Triumph TR3 and Austin-Healey 100 saw manufacture curtailed after just two years; by which time only 2,111 examples had been produced, 1,801 of which were Roadsters. Of course with modern knowhow and fuels, the Twin-Cams will run with decent reliability and good examples are now highly prized.

The 'matching numbers' 1958 Roadster on offer started life as a left-hand drive Federal model. A Californian resident for many years, it was repatriated during the early 1990s and converted to right-hand drive seemingly with assistance (both in terms of parts and advice) from renowned 'Twin Cam' specialist Peter Wood. Passing into the current ownership thereafter, the MG is understood to have subsequently benefited from a complete engine and four-speed manual gearbox overhaul by Peter Wood not to mention a bare metal respray, replacement anti-roll bar, new SU carburettors, refurbished centre-lock disc wheels (complete with Dunlop transfers) and some engine bay detailing. The seller informs us that 'XSU 149' has only completed some 1,000 miles since the work was finished and now regards the engine and transmission as "excellent", and the bodywork, Orient Red paintwork and Black interior as "very good". A rare opportunity for all Twin-Cam enthusiasts.