“A toy for grown-ups with a stunning finish”
When the timeless elegance of a 1950s roadster’s lines meets cutting-edge engineering, the result is quite simply spectacular. This splendid MGA e-Roadster, completely stripped down and rebuilt from the ground up by Retro-EV, may well embody the future of classic grand touring.
Freed from thermal constraints, it features a 105 kW (143 ch) electric motor delivering a blistering and instantaneous torque of 390 Nm, all powered by a liquid-cooled battery pack discreetly housed within the chassis to lower the centre of gravity. The claimed range is around 150 km.
The basis for this exceptional creation is a 1959 MGA 1500, transformed into a technological artefact in its own right. This particular example is, in fact, the very first car built by Retro-EV. Manufactured in 2018 in close collaboration with specialists Grips Garage, this roadster served as a development model to validate and fine-tune the brand’s entire electric conversion technology.
Since the completion of its full rebuild and fine-tuning phase, this MGA e-Roadster has been preserved with the utmost care. It now has fewer than 1,000 km on the clock since its construction. The car is therefore in an absolutely remarkable state of aesthetic freshness.
During our recent test drive, this electrified MGA literally impressed us. Far from detracting from the car’s character, the conversion transforms its dynamic behaviour thanks to perfect balance and exceptionally precise handling, greatly aided by the lower centre of gravity. High-performing, lively and instantly responsive, this exceptional car proves to be a real adult’s toy!