|
MG A
|
1956 - 1961 |
Country: |
|
Engine: |
4 cyl. |
Capacity: |
1489/1588/1622 cc |
Power: |
72-108 bhp |
Transmission: |
4 spd. man |
Top Speed: |
152-177 km/h |
Number Built: |
101,081 |
Collectability: |
|
|
Seen as the first modern post war MG, the A used
much of its inspiration from the Austin A50 saloon.
It used a very strong box-section chassis that had the
reputation of being too strong and heavy for the car,
but it was rigid.
The suspension was nothing startling but its handling
more than matched its competitors like the Triumph and
Austin Healey.
It wasn't that quick either, with its
1489cc motor producing 72 bhp, but 152 km/h was admirable
as was its fuel economy.
In 1956 MG produced a good-looking coupe version and
two years later the engine size increased to 1588cc
with twin overhead cams.
Top speed increased to 177 km/h but was unreliable as
it tended to burn pistons. It was available in both
coupe and roadster forms and was highly priced with
low sales.
In 1960 the standard MGA was the 1600 and with its 80
bhp it could manage 160 km/h. Outwardly, the only difference
was separate rear indicators.
The MkII 1600 in 1961
had a larger 1622cc motor which pushed its output to
86 bhp. It had a recessed front grille and horizontal
rear lights. Production ended one year later |