Basic information and history

The MG MGA 1500 was introduced in 1955 and quickly became an icon of British sports cars. The bodywork, designed by Syd Enever, is low and streamlined and built over a separate ladder frame. Rack and pinion steering, independent front suspension and twin carburettors on the B-series engine were standard. The 1958 1500 models retained drum brakes all round and the clean roadster aesthetic that many enthusiasts consider to be the most classic version before the 1600 arrived.

This example is a 1958 MGA 1500 Roadster which, according to the seller, was imported from the USA and came to Sweden in 2006. The odometer reading is stated to be approximately 86,973 km. The car has been in the same family since 2005, the last three years in the current owner's name. Under the father's management, the car is said to have been carefully maintained, while in recent times it has mostly been garaged. The car has accompanied the family to weddings, students and holidays abroad and is preserved in fond memories and photos, according to the seller.

Documentation included as stated: Certified Copy of a Factory Record (heritage certificate), original manual and the period-correct Special Tuning publication.

Equipment and options

• Converted to 5-speed manual transmission instead of original 4-speed
• Convertible top with inner fabric
• Dual SU carburetors
• Rack and pinion steering and individual front suspension
• Drum brakes all around to 1500 specification
• Documentation: Certified Copy of a Factory Record, original manual, MG Special Tuning booklet

Modifications and improvements: The biggest upgrade is the 5-speed gearbox, which lowers the revs at highway speeds and improves usability. The brake system has had new brake pipes and a repaired service brake performed in 2006. The car was last inspected in 2017.

Condition

Body and exterior: The paint is described as well preserved and in good condition but would need polishing, especially the front section which has some stone chips and is covered in insect remains. The chrome, moldings, headlight lenses and emblems are said to be intact and in good condition. The grill and front bumper have clear marks and would need polishing. The glass is in good condition with the exception of discoloration on the interior rearview mirror.

Interior: The interior is said to be in good condition considering the age of the car, it is well maintained and has a fairly classic feel. Several scratches are visible on the leather on the left backrest of the driver's seat, cosmetic and not through. The right driver's seat appears to have oil stains on the back and outside. The interior of the convertible top is described as good, with a slight tendency to mold stains on one edge. The steering wheel, controls and buttons work as they should, except for the fuel gauge which does not work.

Tires and rims: Tires and rims are fine with approximately 5 mm tread depth according to the seller.

Mechanics: The engine is said to be in very good condition, starts easily and runs smoothly. The gearbox and drivetrain are very nice without any noise, with the aforementioned 5-speed conversion. There is a minor oil leak from the rear axle, mainly after winter storage, and the level may need to be topped up. The brakes are considered good and the brake pipes and service brake were repaired in 2006.

Service history

According to the seller, the oil and filter have been changed annually. The brake pipes and service brake were replaced or renovated in 2006 and the car was approved at its latest and final inspection in 2017. The car has receipts and documentation in the form of a Certified Copy of a Factory Record, original manual and Special Tuning booklet. The car has been in the family's possession since 2005, which gives it a known ownership history.

Summary

A tastefully preserved 1958 MGA 1500 Roadster with documented family history since 2005 and a practical upgrade to a 5-speed gearbox. Well-maintained paint and chrome, good mechanics and an interior with the right patina. Known complaints are a non-functioning fuel gauge, minor scratches on the driver's seat backrest and a minor oil leak from the rear axle that is noticeable after winter storage. For those who appreciate a classic MGA 1500 in genuine condition, with heritage certificates and original documents, this is an attractive and smooth-driving example.