1959 MGA Twin Cam Roadster

The car was acquired in 2007 from the Gene Ponder Collection in Texas through RM Auctions after receiving a cosmetic refurbishment in Idaho in the early 2000s. Retaining a largely stock configuration and several period options, the car has reportedly won prizes in several Kansas City-area British car shows. A handful of small chips and several buffed-through areas are noted on the passenger-side along with a wide gap at the bottom of the passenger door. Dunlop knock-off steel wheels were specified in order to clear the four-wheel disc brakes fitted on Twin Cam cars. The Vredestein Sprint Classic radials reportedly have less than 700 miles of use, and a set of five Dunlop Road Speed tires is also included. Other external differences are limited to a trio of Twin Cam badges, with additional brightwork including an accessory front bumper bar and factory-type luggage rack. Originally black, the interior was changed to dark red during the refurbishment. A Bluemelâ??s Brooklands steering wheel replaces the original, and factory options include competition seats, a heater, and windscreen washer. A set of restored Competition Deluxe seats was installed by Ponder along with door pocket covers to match the leather dash equipped on Twin Cam cars. Matching red carpeting is protected by fitted MG floor mats. A replacement set of black vinyl side curtains is included in the sale. The trunk contains a period gas can along with a factory-style tool roll and knock-off accessories. Equipped solely for the MGA Twin Cam, the 1,588cc inline-four used an aluminum DOHC crossflow cylinder head and twin SU carburetors to produce a factory rating of over 100 horsepower, a considerable boost over the earlier single-cam version. Fewer than 1,500 miles are reportedly on a rebuild commissioned by Ponder, specific details of which are unknown. A single 12-volt battery replaces the original dual 6-volt system, and an upgraded electronic ignition supplies period braided plug wires. Shifting is from a 4-speed manual transmission. Underside photos show the condition of the floors, chassis, and drivetrain, as well as modifications including a performance exhaust and polyurethane A-arm bushings. Filed under: mg, mg a