MG

Announced in September 1955, the MGA replaced the MG TF 1500 Midget and represented a complete styling break from MG's earlier sports cars. As it was so different from the older MG models, it was called the MGA, the "first of a new line" to quote the contemporary advertising. It was available as either a two-door convertible or two-door coupé, fitted with the 1,489 cc engine from the MG Magnette. A total of 101,476 units were sold through the end of production in July 1962, the vast majority of which were exported. Just 5,869 cars were sold on the home market.

In 1961 the MGA Mk II was introduced. It had a 1,622cc version of the standard B-series engine together with other changes such as new rear lights and a redesigned grille with vertical slats. Despite the fact that is was a very good car, sales were beginning to decline, so after about 100,000 units had been produced, the MGA was dropped from the range in 1962 to be succeeded by the MGB.