MG MGA
The streamlined roadster that brought MG into the modern era.
- Power
- 80 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 13.3 s
- Top speed
- 96 mph
- Est. value
- $18k–$45k
About the MG MGA
The MGA represented a radical departure from the upright, pre-war styling of the T-Series Midgets, featuring a sleek aerodynamic body inspired by Syd Enever's 1951 Le Mans prototype. The 1600 variant, introduced in 1959, addressed the original 1500's performance deficits with a larger B-Series engine and the crucial addition of front disc brakes. Its body-on-frame construction and rack-and-pinion steering provide a raw, mechanical driving experience that remains a benchmark for classic British roadsters. As a massive export success, it solidified MG's reputation in the North American market before being succeeded by the unibody MGB.
MG MGA specs
The MG MGA produces 80 bhp (60 kW) and 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 13.3 seconds and has a top speed of 96 mph (155 km/h).
| Make | MG |
|---|---|
| Model | MGA |
| Trim | 1600 |
| Years | 1959–1961 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Original price | About $2,500 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,588 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 80 bhp (60 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 118 Nm (87 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 13.3 s |
| Top speed | 96 mph (155 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 902 kg (1,989 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 89 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an MG MGA worth?
A typical MG MGA is estimated to be worth $18,000 – $45,000 (about £13,000 – £34,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,500.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
MG MGA rarity in CarSpot
The MG MGA is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 28 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
MG MGA fun facts
- The MGA was so different from its predecessors that MG decided to start the naming convention over at the beginning of the alphabet.
- Because the car sits so low, it does not have exterior door handles; drivers must reach inside the cockpit to pull a release cord.
- The 1600 is easily distinguished from the earlier 1500 by its '1600' badges and separate amber turn signal lenses at the rear.