chassis number YD3865
For the debut of its new MG 'A' in 1955, MG wisely chose that year's
Le Mans 24 hour race. After a succession of open-wheeled models there
were fears of an adverse reaction to such a streamlined car and it
was felt that by showing the MG 'A' in competition first, the aerodynamic
shape would be accepted as a performance essential.
There had been some delays, however, in getting the go ahead for
production, MG owner BMC declining, having already agreed with Donald
Healey to build the Austin Healey 100. It was the success of a highly
streamlined MG 'A' prototype, which took several speed records up
to 153mph, that finally persuaded BMC to relent.
The 'Twin-Cam' MGA was introduced midway through 1958. The 1,588cc
unit was rated at 108bhp at 6,700rpm providing the car with a 0-60mph
time of 9 seconds and a maximum speed of 115mph. The suspension
was by independent coil springs at the front and a live rear axle
with leaf springs, the car had a close-ration gearbox and the specification
was rounded off with disc brakes all round.
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