MGA Possible purchase

[Rut]

Good morning all...I’m looking at an MGA that’s for sale locally and although I know nothing about them, I’ve always liked them. I’ve got a few pictures from the seller and the engine runs, but it is obviously not drivable in its current state. This car looks like it has about the same amount of rust that I normally deal with, but I could reall use your expertise. Thoughts?
Thanks, Rut

 

[JPSmit]

seems complete and looks like surface rust - you certainly have the ability. I feel like this one comes down to price vs. ambition to do it vs how badly you want it.

 

[Mickey Richaud]

Don't know about the expertise part, but here's my take: Looks like you'll have your work cut out for you, but the pictures appear to show a worthy candidate.

Frame condition? Wood floors may have to be replaced, but they're not too expensive. Hopefully, that's only surface rust on the dash. Doors and bonnet are aluminum - make sure those are sound. Original seats present?

Let us know what you find!

Mickey

 

[Rut]

He’s asking $2500 and he’s only about an hour away, but I’m in Maine until Saturday. I might get a friend who’s somewhat local to take a look, but he’s not a car guy.
Thanks, Rut

 

[Mickey Richaud]

$2500 sounds like a deal to me...

 

[blueosprey90]

Get the car up on jackstands and inspect the frame. Rockers, sills and rear fender doglegs are the first to rust out. And I doubt that that engine runs. If the seller can't start it up, knock him down $500.

It looks like a 1600 by the tail light plinths, but MGAs came in 1500, 1600 and 1622 engine varieties, but many people drop in a 1800 3 main as well.

 

[Grantura_MKI]

Geez. Are expecting a great car at 2500? If done nicely it will bring 30k plus. Work the numbers....if not by one at auction and expect to spend another 3-5k to make it right.

 

[blueosprey90]

No, but the seller is apparently claiming that the engine runs. That seems a bit of seller's hyperbole. And to see the true extent of the rust, you need to be looking under the car. Just sayin'

 

[NutmegCT]

If that MGA has been stored outside under a tarp (like the photos show) - there's going to be more than surface rust.

And I agree, I very much doubt that engine actually "runs" - unless he means what you see when you add oil, coolant, and fuel.

They all run right out.

But if you have your own shop, spend lots of time and money - it may eventually be worth $30K.

Tom M.

 

[Rut]

Thanks for the replies and I back in AL. I let this one pass since I have too many projects to say grace over now.
Rut

 

[Brinkerhoff]

A sure sign of maturity is being able to pass one up ! I'm not there yet.