MGA Twin-Cam Roadster

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Initially fitted with a 68bhp 1500cc engine, the MGA was upgraded to 72bhp 1600cc spec in 1959 increasing top speed to 101mph. However, for the really committed driver, a high performance 108bhp Twin-Cam version was also made available from 1958.

Developed by Gerald Palmer using a modified B-Series engine with a twin-cam alloy head, it also featured uprated suspension, all-round disc brakes and exclusive peg drive wheels made by Dunlop (closely resembling those on the racing Jaguar D-Types).

Despite these mechanical refinements and 113mph performance, the Twin-Cam failed to sell in great numbers, due mainly to its high price. Only 2,110 cars were sold before production came to an end in April 1960, the vast majority to the export market with only 457 in RHD, and the few survivors are now perhaps the most sought-after of post-war MG sports cars.

According to the Heritage Certificate, this original RHD Twin-Cam Roadster left Abingdon on 5th December 1958 bound for South Africa where she would remain until 1997 when she returned to these shores. Correspondence on file indicates that it is likely that this is the first Twin-Cam ever to arrive in South Africa.

Virtually 40 years in a dry climate has clearly helped to preserve this Twin-Cam when the majority of Home Market cars have either been scrapped or rebuilt long ago. There is evidence of an older, cosmetic restoration which still holds up well and she displays the 'patina of age' so often lacking in over-restored examples.

Originally specified with competition seats, oil cooler, 4-wheel disc brakes, adjustable steering column, windscreen washers and twin horns, she has recently benefited from the fitment of a Coopercraft brake upgrade in November 2016 and replacement exhaust system and a new Deluxe trim kit in 2017 which blends well with the black leather seats. The carpets are also fairly recent as are the Bluemels-style steering wheel, the soft top, side-screens and both tonneau covers. A useful luggage rack is also fitted to the boot.

Notes on file indicate that an engine rebuild was carried out soon after she returned to the UK at which time the bores were resleeved to standard, the crank was reground, the cylinder head overhauled with new valve guides and sleeved buckets and Lucas Optronic ignition installed for improved efficiency and reliability. The brakes were also overhauled with stainless steel wheel cylinders and the suspension overhauled using bronze bushes.

It would appear that the speedo was zeroed at the time of the engine rebuild and she has covered some 10,000 miles since. A spell of around six years in Belgium would account for the lack of MOT history between 2009 and 2015 and she is, of course, now MOT exempt.

On a spirited test drive through the Buckinghamshire countryside the engine performed faultlessly and held good oil pressure, pulling strongly through the gears and really coming to life above 3,000rpm, with reassuring stopping power from the Coopercraft brakes. If the new owner has never driven a Twin-Cam they are in for a real treat and some very satisfying motoring lies ahead - the standard version just doesn't cut the mustard by comparison!