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MGB GT MKIII

MGB GT MKIII

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MGB GT MKIIIMGB GT MKIIIMGB GT MKIIIMGB GT MKIIIMGB GT MKIII
MGB GT MKIIIMGB GT MKIIIMGB GT MKIIIMGB GT MKIIIMGB GT MKIII
Lot number 120
Hammer value £10,000
Description MGB GT MKIII
Registration ONT 152M
Year 1973
Colour Orange
Engine size 1,798 cc
Chassis No. GHD5329108G
Engine No. 21154

The stylish Pininfarina designed GT coupe version of the MGB Roadster was launched in 1965. A taller windscreen and new roof line did nothing to harm the good looks inherited from the open version.

It remained in production until 1980 by which time over 520,000 MGBs of all types had been produced, making it the most successful sports car ever, eclipsed only recently by the Mazda MX5. Offered in four basic versions over its lifetime, the Mk II was announced in 1967 which added welcome synchromesh to first gear, the MkIII arriving in 1972 with a significantly revised facia, before the last of the line rubber bumper models emerged from the line in late 1974, although interestingly these have never been referred to as Mk IVs.

This Mk III GT was purchased new by Mr D Smith through Pearce’ Garage, Market Street, Wellington in 1973. A maintenance and woodwork teacher at nearby Old Hall School, he kept it in a lock-up workshop on the school grounds, hardly using it between its regular rust treatments, taking it for no more than 10 mile jaunts on high days and holidays until he put it away in 1976 . Upon retirement, the car was removed from the school and laid up until his passing in 1993.

Unused since, the car has only accumulated 999 miles from new and retains the majority of its original features, even down to the brown paper tag attached to the heater unit, tied on for some reason when they left the factory. Having lead such a sedentary life, it will no doubt require a modicum of recommissioning before being presented for its next MOT.

The vendor, who purchased the car from Mr Smith’s widow in 2005 has taken much care to make sure that none of the small details have been spoilt. It looks and feels like a 999 mile car, the vendor preferring to let its new owner take it into four figures as he downsizes his collection!
 

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