MGB Roadster

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Launched in 1962 to replace the MGA, the MGB was initially only available as a roadster and used a new monocoque structure that reduced both weight and manufacturing costs as well as adding chassis strength.

Restrained and elegant, the design was also a considerable improvement in comparison to that of the traditional body-on-frame construction used on the MGA and T-Type models as well as the MGB's main rival, the Triumph TR series. It included independent front suspension, wind-up windows and a comfortable driver's compartment, with plenty of legroom and a parcel shelf behind the seats.

The MGB's performance was brisk for the period, with a 0–60 mph time of just over 11 seconds and a top speed of over 100mph, aided by the relatively light weight of the car. Handling was one of the MGB's strong points. The 3-bearing 1798cc B-Series engine produced 95bhp at 5,400 rpm. The engine was upgraded in October 1964 to a 5-bearing crankshaft in an effort to improve reliability. The MGB would go on to become the best-selling MG of all time with more than 500,000 sold (the vast majority to the US market) before production finally ended in 1980.

First registered in February 1970, this lovely MGB Roadster has had just three owners since 1988, the current having owned it since buying it from Brightwells in 2017. Having had a lot of fun in it and due to space issues, sadly it is time for it to move on again. Shortly after the previous owner acquired the car it was treated to a total nut-and-bolt restoration and the odometer re-set to zero since when it has only covered some 27,100 miles.

Many upgrades and improvements have been made to the car along the way, all documented in notes and invoices on file. These include the fitment of power steering using a kit supplied by the MG Owner’s Club which makes parking and low speed manoeuvring a doddle.

Naturally the bodywork has been fully restored and waxoil protected with an aluminium bonnet, many new panels, all new chrome, new windscreen, new fuel tank and Le Mans-style filler cap, the whole lot finished off by four layers of undercoat and eight top coats of gleaming Tartan Red.

The engine and overdrive gearbox were fully overhauled with an unleaded head, aluminium rocker cover, new clutch, new oil cooler, uprated Kenlowe fan and a stainless steel sports exhaust. The car rides on sparkling 72-spoke wire wheels with good tyres all round.

The interior is also packed with goodies including black leather seats piped in red with matching headrests; leather centre console; walnut dash and steering wheel; wind deflector; CD player; puddle lights, door stop lights and footwell courtesy lights – you get the picture!

More recently the car has also been treated to new rear leaf springs in 2011 and a major service in September 2016 at a cost of over £560. Since then it has been converted to use a single 12 volt battery and has only really been used in fine weather and garaged .Said to drive as well as it looks with an MOT until April 2020, this thoroughly rejuvenated MGB is ready for a fortunate new owner to enjoy right away.