Vehicle Description
The MGA was first introduced to the market in 1955 in 1500
configuration as a replacement for the 19-year-old MG T-series.
Compared to the outgoing TF, which was little more than a hastily
refreshed TD, the MGA's styling was sleek and shockingly
contemporary. The MGA also featured the modern B-series engine that
debuted in the Magnette sports saloon. The Mark II was the final
iteration of the series and saw the most significant improvements -
a 1600 cc engine, MG's first application of front-wheel disc
brakes, and some minor styling changes like larger taillamps and a
revised grille. Production of the Mark II began in April 1961 and
ceased in June 1962, with 8,719 units completed before the arrival
of the MGB. Visual differences of the Mark II included vertical
grille bars recessed at the bottom, a new taillight cluster
borrowed from the Mini, and most noteworthy, BMC's
1,622-cubic-centimeter four-cylinder engine. This cast-iron block
motor offered a 13-percent horsepower increase and an increase in
torque of 12 percent, all from a displacement increase of only 34
cubic centimeters. All told the 93-horsepower engine afforded the
Mark II with a top speed in excess of 100 mph. According to its
accompanying British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate,
this is one of the approximately 33 right-hand drive MGAs
originally used for police duty. First registered as 710 WTC, this
car has been in the current owner's possession since the mid-1970s,
although he was unaware of the car's previous life until he decided
to do a frame-up restoration in the late 1990s. When he received
the BMIHT Certificate, he saw the destination dealer was listed as
"Lancashire Police." At that point, he decided to return the car to
its original specifications. Police cars were optioned with disc
wheels, tubeless tires, side screens, and a low compression engine
for durability. They also included the "Full Police Specification"
option, which had a modified battery box to accommodate larger
batteries, a high-output generator lifted from bigger BMC saloons,
and a certified Jaeger speedometer to track down speeders in the
local village. Lancashire Constabulary was among the most avid
users of MGAs for traffic patrol work, and they fitted the
requisite lights, sirens, and signals at their police garage. Once
it was decided to return it to original specs, the MGA was
completely disassembled and, according to the previous owner,
restored to a high standard by the Body Werks in Barrington,
Illinois, with engine work handled by marque expert John Twist.
Meanwhile, the owner scoured the UK for authentic and proper police
parts. He met a retired London policeman who had been involved in
restoring two other police MGAs, and he had a stash of the
period-appropriate fittings. Further research led to the owner
speaking with the very officer assigned to this car in Lancashire!
He also found a photo of his MG in its full regalia featured in the
bookMGs On Patrol(Andrea Green, 2nd ed). Restoration to original
specification was completed in 2013, with the only change to
original spec being the fitment of chrome wire wheels and the
corresponding axle assembly, added before the owner knew of its
police history. In addition, an MG luggage rack has been added.
This marvelous MGA receives rave reviews wherever it is shown and
has been kept in a heated and climate-controlled garage since
restoration, preserving its superb condition. The high-quality
paintwork and upholstery remain in excellent order. Details are
accurate to original specs, such as the gray vinyl roof, original
police equipment, and Raydyot fog lamps. Most recently, it received
Best in Class honors at the 2019 NAMGAR (North American MGA
Register) meet; it will no doubt continue to win admiration under
the care of its next owner. Offers welcome and trades considered
For additional details please view this listing directly on our
website https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7146-1961-mg-mga-police-car/
