MGB LE Roadster

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Launched way back in 1962 the MGB was one of the most successful and long-lived British sports cars of all time.

So fundamentally right was the original design that it changed remarkably little over its 18-year production life. The main change was the adoption of rubber bumpers in 1974 while some tweaks were also made to the suspension, the engine, the gearbox and the interior trim as time went on.

The last 1,000 MGBs were produced and completed in October 1980 and designated the Limited Edition. The LEs were fitted with front chin spoilers and distinctive Stag-type alloy wheels. Wire wheels were an option on the roadster version and the car was finished in bronze metallic paint with gold LE stripes running the length of the bodywork.

The interior was upholstered in orange and brown striped cloth and this last of the line MGB carried a price tag of £6,445. A total of 420 Roadsters and 580 GTs were made before the closure of Abingdon and the last of each model now resides with the Heritage Trust alongside their famous collection of historic vehicles at the Heritage Centre, Gaydon.

This March 1981 registered LE Roadster comes with a vast history file from new (including the original £6,467 purchase invoice from Stockport Motor House) and has covered a warranted 88,200 miles to date. A replacement Ivor Searle unleaded engine was fitted less than 4,000 miles ago in September 2012.

Other goodies include a recent new clutch and water pump, electronic ignition, stainless steel exhaust, chrome bumper spec suspension, leather seats, overdrive and a MotaLita steering wheel. Last serviced about 2,800 miles ago in May 2013, it is said to drive beautifully and was driven to Spain and back last year. Taxed until March and MOTd until May 2015, it is ready for a new owner to jump in and enjoy.