Launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show of 1955 the all-new MGA may have been well received by the press but the car buying public (especially Stateside) went further and backed the car with their cash. According to Peter Haining’s in-depth book ‘The MG Log’ at no time during its four years could production of the MGA keep pace with the demand, even though Abingdon’s capacity was increased two-fold. 90% were exported to America a trend that continued for many years with over 100k units built in all. By 1959 the model warranted an update, the engine capacity was increased from 1,489 cc to 1,588 cc giving an extra 6 brake horsepower. The marginal 99 cc increase gave a 10% rise in power and a meaningful 17% increase in torque which resulted in a noticeable improvement in acceleration and the top speed was raised past the all-important 100 mph. Listed as the MK1 1600 the MGA was offered at the list price of £940 7s 6d had a 4-speed gearbox with synchro in 2^nd 3^rd & 4^th with chrome plated “1600” badges fitted to give the uprated car its true identity. Braking was improved with the introduction of front disc brakes and better rear drum brakes which could cope with the additional performance. There were suspension changes on the 1600 with slightly stiffer springs and uprating of the front lever arm shock absorbers but more noticeable were the cosmetic and detail improvements to the body. A total of 40,220 (both Mk1 & 2) 1600 tourers and coupes were built from 1959 until 1962.

Country Classic Cars are offering this MGA 1600 Mk1 Coupe on behalf of the current owner and we feel UNJ 600 is best described as ‘true to its roots’ … a more genuine example would be a challenge to find in a hurry. Reams of history which begins with James Orpin, the first owner from Warninglid, East Sussex. Onto Palmers Green with its second owner in 1970 then across London to Southgate in 1974. The Invoice file begins at this time thanks to John Spaul who needed to contact S H Richardson (MG Spares) in Staines after 18 months of ownership to obtain a fresh engine block. Further receipts confirm the engine was rebored with new pistons, valves etc in Enfield; both invoices totalling a mere £75. The engine number was altered on the original ‘buff’ log book and by 1980 the MGA had travelled 86k miles and was in the hands of a Mr Pugh in Ilford Essex. A copy of the insurance valuation carried out in October 1983 confirms the mileometer at 97790 and the MG was now considered a ‘classic car’ and recommended £3000 coverage should the worse happen. Lot 250 of Holloways Banbury Auction in May 1989 saw the MGA change hands for a hammer price of £8250 no doubt assisted by a recent replacement gearbox, unleaded conversion and a second complete engine rebuild completed just three months earlier. David Shepherd in Lincolnshire took over in 2007 at 112k miles and listed his input and investigated previous owners and milage details. April 2009 and the coupe was finally back in Sussex with its current custodian, after 9 previous owners and showing 19500 miles. Up to date the paint was refreshed in 2014 with invoices just north of £9500 whilst the wiring loom was replaced in 2015 along with the clutch slave cylinder. Seat bases 2016, batteries 2017 and Moto lita steering wheel with radiator recon in 2022 every item is documented alongside strict annual servicing and very regular waxoil treatment; the history file on UNJ 600 is one of the most impressive we have viewed.

Exterior and the Dove Grey finish certainly suits the coupe, close inspection located three stone chips to the roof two of which have been touched in also the lower front edge of the n/s front wing where small stone impact has cracked the paint and will warrant attention to prevent spread. The chrome is showing age, although areas of light corrosion on one over rider and two wheel caps will polish out and with some tlc a good finish could be brought back to all the brightwork. Period Comac tyres offer plenty of tread and the underside is solid with Waxoil protection evident.

Interior smacks of ‘gentlemens’ club with wear to the red leather seatbacks, the bases have been refilled and covered whilst the dash carried decades of sun fade but still looks appropriate. Roof lining is excellent but those chasing the odd show trophy may look at replacing the elderly carpets.

On test the MGA fired up from cold first time of asking, choke soon discarded and once at idle a healthy 60lbs oil pressure was noted; the mileometer current states 32733. On the move everything worked as it should, the rear damping maybe added to any future ‘to do’ list but on our short test ride the handling felt assured. Steering as expected from most 50s designs but without excessive play and the brakes proved surprisingly positive. The drive reflects like most aspects of this MGA, its relaxing, familiar and honest … behind the wheel is a nice place to be and not very different to as it would have been when it left Oxfordshire 65 years ago.

In addition to the extensive history, old tax discs, fitted trickle charger and drivers handbook.

For additional information please message with your email address for detailed images; we will forward the file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service or Whats Ap if you supply your mobile phone number. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only as our cars are often kept in secure storage although currently, we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and test drives.