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Make sure the car you're driving or buying has been sorted, or don't even think about getting behind the wheel. (Photo: Barrett-Jackson) ยป More Photos
The MGA was a major fresh breath of sports car air when it replaced the last of the T series MGs in 1955. It was modern looking, handled far better than the previous models (which predated World War II), and had more interior creature features. MG developed an aluminum double-overhead-cam cross-flow head for the trusty B series four, in search of better performance, introducing the MGA Twin Cam in 1959. The extra punch was there - 108 horsepower, versus 72 for the standard car. But with the pleasure came pain, as the Twin Cam was a finicky beast. It required 100-octane fuel and either pinged or overheated without it. Timing chains slipped. Piston crowns melted. The engine revved beautifully but had no rev limiter. In short, they found numerous ways to damage themselves or just plain blow up. MG gave up in mid-1960, replacing it with the 1600 Mark II, which got the Twin Cam's updates and a handsome knock-off wheels, but with a conventional OHV four.
Specifications
Engine: 1.5-liter DOHC inline four
Horsepower: 108 (the last units were detuned to 100)
Price New: $3,542
Value Now: $30,000-$40,000
MG-A Photos
Problematic and short-lived, yet a much-sought-after model
MGA Twin Cam club members have figured out how to make these things run and live. Make sure the car you're driving or buying has been sorted, or don't even think about getting behind the wheel.
The Twin Cam engine was so problematic that MG would refit your car with a standard overhead-valve four if you wished.
On an MGA Twin Cam club meet, so there will be knowledgeable folks around to help you fix it.
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