1959 MG MGA 1500

Description

Introduced by MG for the 1956 model year, the MGA roadster marked a significant departure from MG’s earlier designs. The 1500, the first of the MGA series, replaced the MG TF with a more modern, streamlined body that reflected post-war automotive design trends. 

Under the hood, the MGA 1500 featured a 1.5-liter inline-four engine producing around 68 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. Although modest by today’s standards, this setup offered spirited performance for the era, with a top speed of about 97 mph. The car’s light weight and nimble handling made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. 

The MGA 1500 was also notable for its use of body-on-frame construction and independent front suspension, which contributed to its responsive road manners. It was available in both roadster and coupe forms, with the roadster being particularly popular in the U.S. market. 

Morris Garages introduced the MGA 1600 mid-year in ’59, making this MGA 1500 one of the last to roll out of the automaker’s factory in Abingdon-on-Thames. By the end of its production, over 58,000 MGA 1500s had been built, and they continue to be attractive to British car enthusiasts. 

Highlights 

• Finished in British Racing Green paint over tan interior 

• Powered by a BMC B-Series 1489cc inline-four engine (15GB-U-H-622S) with twin SU H4 carburetors rated at 68 hp 

• Four-speed manual transmission 

• Upgrades and maintenance during current ownership: 

  • Rebuild engine including rebuilt SU carbs 

  • New wiring harness, voltage regulator, and battery 

  • New gas tank 

  • New brake system 

  • New interior upholstery and carpet, including trunk 

  • New sliding side curtains  

  • New chrome bumpers 

  • New stainless exhaust 

  • Undercar insulation and exhaust wrap 

  • New Robbins Stayfast convertible top 

  • New black tonneau cover

• The chassis number (HDA43/61777) decodes as: 

  • H – Morris Garages (MG) 

  • D – 1500 engine series (1.5-liter inline four) 

  • A – Two-seat roadster 

  • 4 – Left-hand drive 

  • 3 – North American market 

  • 61777 – Production number  

Features 

• Luggage rack 

• Padded dash 

• Four-spoked steering wheel 

• Jaeger 120 mph speedometer and 7000 rpm tachometer 

• Smiths heater 

• 15-inch steel wheels with dog-dish hubcaps 

• Sprint 165R15 tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Minor exterior paint imperfection and chips 

• Odometer no longer works 

• Crack in corner of windshield (not in sight line) 

• Light surface corrosion on underside, commensurate with the age of the vehicle  

Included 

• Spare tire (Arizonian 165R15) 

• Jack and lug wrench 

• Side curtains 

• Tonneau 

• Parts history 

Ownership History 

The Florida seller of this 1959 MG MGA has owned it since April 2024. It is titled by its chassis number (61777). 

Additional Notes  

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.