MGC Roadster

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

First seen in 1967, the MGC was BMC's attempt to plug the gap left in its range by the demise of the Healey 3000, without having to build a completely new car.

It used a modified version of the MGB body shell and was powered by a tuned version of the C-Series straight-six engine used in the Austin 3-Litre saloon. In the twin SU carburettor form used in the MGC, the engine produced 145bhp and could propel the car to 60mph in 10 seconds on its way to a top speed of 120mph.

It also had better brakes than the MGB, larger 15-inch wheels, lower geared rack-and-pinion steering and special torsion bar suspension with telescopic dampers. These tweaks, combined with a pronounced bonnet bulge to clear the larger engine, gave the MGC an altogether more purposeful look than the humble MGB. 

However, it was no Big Healey and the heavy engine blunted the car's handling somewhat leading to a mixed reception by the motoring press. Never properly marketed by BMC, the MGC was quietly shelved in 1969 after fewer than 2,000 RHD MGC Roadsters had been delivered.

Nowadays though, because of these low production numbers, the MGC is keenly sought after. With modern tyres and a few subtle suspension tweaks the handling can be transformed and, with a strong torquey engine which can easily be tuned to extract 30% more power, they make excellent high speed cruisers.

This gorgeous October 1968 Roadster has only had three owners from new, the first keeping it until 1978. Its second owner ran it for a while before treating it to a full restoration which was completed just before he sold it to its current custodian in 1986 – 31 years ago. At this point, the car had covered 70,900 miles and it still shows only 86,156 miles today.

Attracted by its outstanding condition, it had just received a full engine rebuild using genuine BMC components, new doors, front wings, sills and rear ¼ panels which were all professionally fitted – the panel gaps around the doors still looking good after all these years.

The current keeper has kept a diary of all subsequent expenditure, which includes a new, later type fold down hood (the original sticks are still in the boot), a proper MGC steering wheel, rebuilt speedo (retaining the correct mileage) and an overhauled rev counter.

Other sensible modifications include a single 12v battery mounted in a box in the boot, fresh carpets, interior panels and a seat retrim in Connolly hide which was carried out by a Connolly of Wimbledon trimmer and looks like it!

Most recently new rear springs and shocks have been fitted and the car comes with a working period radio, although we are advised that it needs a new speaker. It has just had a new set of plugs fitted along with new wiper blades, the car having been regularly serviced over the years. Overdrive, a stainless exhaust and sparkling chrome wire wheels just add to the appeal of this fine looking ‘C'.

There are 25 old MOTs on file dating back to 1986 to warrant the mileage along with a workshop manual and lots of bills which show the level of care and attention that has been lavished on the old girl over the years. Now MOT exempt, this is a lovely car in all respects.