MGC GT

The MGC was never really given the chance in life it deserved. Conceived to replace the much loved Austin-Healey 3000, it was seen to be a souped up MGB which was a great shame because in many ways it was a more than worthy successor.

The 150bhp “C” Series 3-litre straight-six gave the engineers their first headache. The length of the big six and the proximity of the bulkhead meant that the new engine protruded further forward than in the smaller engined MGB. This meant the removal of the suspension cross member, replacing the whole setup with a longitudinal torsion bar system which stretched back under the floor. The cars went well, sounded good and were fast, 120mph being easily attainable.

Alas the press didn’t respond well to the new model.  Much was made of understeer issues at the time, however in reality this was unfair, the low geared steering and higher road speeds being the more likely culprits. The weight bias at 53% front, 47% rear was perfectly reasonable and today’s modern tyres and a quicker steering rack more than compensate.

This University Motors Ltd (London) supplied example was first registered in June 1968. The Heritage Certificate shows that it was a RHD home market car having been built between the 4th and 9th of April of that year. Supplied in Tartan Red, it has now racked up 93,000 miles which the vendor believes to be genine and comes with invoices dating from 2008 showing a major overhaul. Complete with its original workshop manual, parts catalogue and a stainless steel exhaust, it is due to have a fresh MOT by the time of the sale. The vendor reports that it drives beautifully and is only being sold due to the arrival of a young family.

MGCs have finally started to be appreciated for what they are – rare, powerful and pretty long distance GTs. This automatic example fits the bill perfectly and is ready for the 50th Anniversary celebrations due next year