Description
MG MGA Coupe | 1960
Highlights:
- Fitted with upgraded 1800cc MGB engine and 5-speed Ford gearbox
- Rare Island Green repaint in good condition
- Original parts included with sale for purists
- Technically upgraded with improved drivability
- Ready to drive with valid inspection
The seller offers for sale this 1960 MG MGA Coupé, an elegant British classic presented in rare Island Green. Under the hood lies a discreetly upgraded 1800 cc four-cylinder engine from an MGB, paired with a 5-speed Ford manual transmission. These enhancements provide modern driving comfort and reliability while preserving the car’s original charm. The gearbox is smooth, the engine responsive, and electrical components including indicators and lights are in working order. The car features upgraded mechanicals including disc brakes and retains a classic rear-wheel-drive layout.
The current owner has preserved the car’s authenticity by keeping all original components, which are included in the sale. The aim has been to maintain the car’s classic look and feel, while subtly modernising the driving experience. The interior features well-kept leather bucket seats, and the dashboard is in tidy condition. Original seats are also included. The car has undergone a repaint in Island Green, a rare and fitting shade that complements the coupé’s flowing lines. The bodywork is in good condition, showing only minor chips or surface wear.
The exterior displays only light signs of age and is visually coherent throughout. The repaint is uniform. The engine bay is clean and tidy, reflecting recent care and servicing. Mechanically, the car is good. It has a valid technical inspection certificate and is ready for the road. The car has reportedly received significant attention and appears in good cosmetic and mechanical condition throughout.
Inside, the condition is consistent with the rest of the car: clean, functional, and complete. While minor replacements may be desired for perfection, the interior offers a pleasant and usable space. It remains unmodified in visual layout, and switches and functions are operational. No interior damage or visible wear compromises the usability of the cabin.
Originally launched in 1955, the MG A marked a major departure in style and engineering from MG’s earlier T-series cars. Its smooth, aerodynamic design and low stance were a revelation at the time. The coupé version introduced added refinement and comfort, appealing to buyers seeking a more enclosed driving experience. The MGA became a symbol of post-war British motoring, admired for its light handling and elegant proportions. Over 100,000 units were produced, with strong export numbers, particularly to the United States.
The MG A Coupé combined beauty and simplicity, utilising a ladder frame chassis and independent front suspension. Its standard 1.5-litre engine was modest in performance but gave the car engaging dynamics due to its light weight. Enthusiasts today often upgrade MGAs with MGB running gear—as in this example—to gain improved performance and everyday usability without losing the car’s period character. The Ford 5-speed conversion is a well-established modification that enhances highway cruising and gearbox reliability.
This car is featured in a film available on the Petrolicious channel, as well as in an online press article, adding further provenance to its story.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Liège province, Belgium.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Belgian registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
