Presented in its original colour of Iris Blue, this MGA Roadster is the archetypal British sports car of the 1950s and has been meticulously looked after during the long-term ownership of its current custodian.

First registered on 10 August 1959, 839 WMV is an early example of the 1600 model and was built as a right-hand-drive car for the UK market.

The current owner bought the MGA in July 2009, after the previous keeper had carriedreportedly out a comprehensive restoration of both the bodywork and mechanical components. In late 2014, the engine was rebuilt to original specification by Wards Engineering in Rugby, a process that included fitting a new crankshaft.

At the same time, the owner took the opportunity to replace the original four-speed gearbox with a Ford Type 9 five-speed unit, which was supplied by Hi-Gear Engineering in Derbyshire.

In April 2016, following the discovery of some slight corrosion on the nearside front wing, the decision was taken to entrust the MGA to Rugby Classics. They replaced the nearside front and rear wings and restored the inner wings and sills at the same time. Any replacement panels that were required were UK-made in steel.

Some well-chosen upgrades have been made along the way, including electronic ignition, an alternator conversion, an oil cooler, Spax adjustable dampers on the rear, and drilled front brake discs. More recent work has included the installation of a new petrol tank and radiator, and in 2022 the combined brake and clutch master cylinder was replaced.

Having covered more than 21,000 miles in its current 15-year ownership, this MGA 1600 is now being offered for sale with an extensive history file that includes a wealth of invoices and photographs. It’s a beautiful example of this charming, practical and enduring sports car, and is ready to be used and enjoyed by its next owner.