Last Saturday, at the Lyndhurst estate in Tarrytown, NY, Christies held =
an auction of some 47 lots. Mostly expensive steel, there was a '59 MGA =
1500 in the lineup. I paid particular attention, having just finished =
the restoration. This is what I found:
59 MGA, roadster. Body appears to be in sound condition, doors didn't =
close real well, but few do. Under the bonnet, near the front, there =
was clear evidence of prior rust. I suspect they ground it out and =
patched. Not a bad job, but clearly noticeable. The engine was painted =
all maroon, rather than just the valve cover. Carburetors were not =
polished and one of them was cocked at a crazy angle. Interior was Tan, =
appeared to be a new kit, not too bad. Body was painted some version of =
British Racing Green. Top was non-existent, as were the side curtains =
and the tonneau. Wheels were chrome (Dunlop, I think) looked a little =
crude, for a Christie's auction. Front grill was definitely =
after-market. Wheel was moto-lite wood. No luggage rack. It was =
definitely not show quality, but assuming it ran as well as it looked, =
it would be a nice street machine.
It sold for $17,000 plus a 15% buyers premium, for a total of $19,550 =
plus tax. I was pleased, as the bidding was spirited and got right up =
to $17,000 in $1000 increments, with last two bids at $500 advances. =
Based upon that, I figure mine would have gone for $22-23,000 plus =
buyers premium.
My wife wouldn't let me buy the XK140 MC Drophead. White with read =
leathers. 99.068 points on last 6 Concours. She said I would just =
drive it and ruin it, and besides, I just bought a plane and besides, =
she wants some new patio furniture, and besides she will let me drive =
HER MG, at least when I am with her to make sure I don't break it.
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