Abingdon Assembly Line

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kermit began life in Abingdon, England as chassis number 96793, destined for export to Australia as a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) vehicle.  Australian made softtops, batteries, rear springs, tyres and some other parts contributed to keeping the price affordable(*).  He was  assembled in Zetland, Sydney in late 1960 as Australian Assembly # 1007, making him the 506th Aussie MGA1600.  Original colour was Nurburg White.

CKD Ready for Shipment

The history with the original owner is sketchy and being researched.  He is thought to have spent his first 22 years in Balmain, Sydney.  Claimedly, Kermit was stored for 10 years in a Sydney garage, awaiting restoration.  He was deregistered and sold in 1982 to the second owner who was also planning to restore him.  Kermit was stored again in another shed in Avonsleigh, Victoria while the new owner attended to the restoration of a MG TF which held priority.  The MGA awaited restoration for a further seven years.  I entered the scene in July 1989 after selling my MGB and bought the car after a thorough inspection. 
 

Australian Assembly Line

I trailered him home to join the 2 other disassembled MGAs that I had bought.  Armed with a six-pack of VB, I immediately set to work.  Knowing next to nothing about welding and painting, I knew that I was going to need a lot of help and guidance from my mate, Martin.  Martin eventually did a lot of excellent work on Kermit. 

By evening on day one, Kermit was stripped down to the chassis and the fun began.

The top 4 images come from Robert Vitrikas's excellent book entitled "MGA, A History & Restoration Guide".  If you are interested in MGAs, this is a great reference book.  The bottom photo comes from an article in the magazine "Sports Car World" in February 1958.  The article details Australian involvement in the assembly of MGAs and is also worth a look.


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