MGB Roadster MkI

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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 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, the 1798cc B-Series engine producing 95bhp, sufficient to propel the car to 60mph in just 11 seconds with a top speed of over 100mph. Aided by the relatively light weight of the car, handling was another of the MGB's strong points.

Remaining in production for 18 years, it was gradually modernised over time, a MkII version coming out in 1968, although later cars lost some of the fine detailing of the early models. The vast majority of MGBs were exported to the United States and it would go on to be the best-selling MG of all time, with more than 500,000 cars built before assembly finally ended in 1980.

As the accompanying Heritage Certificate confirms, this very early MGB Roadster was built in December 1962 and was destined for the booming American export market. Iris Blue with disc wheels, a heater, ash tray, packaway hood and whitewall tyres, it was to remain in the States for the next 44 years, finally returning to the UK in 2006.

Shortly after arrival on home turf it was treated to a bare shell restoration which took a year to complete. This included all new floors, sills, rear wing quarter panels and conversion to right-hand drive. The engine and all other mechanical parts were overhauled or renewed as necessary and a full stainless steel exhaust fitted, the whole process being documented in photos on file. The interior was also retrimmed and new carpets fitted throughout.

Since the restoration was completed the car has covered less than 1,000 fine weather miles in the hands of just two owners. Said to be in very good condition throughout and to “drive like a dream” it sailed through its MOT in June with just a couple of minor advisories recorded, the MOT tester commenting that it was “clean as a whistle” underneath.

Supplied with the aforementioned restoration photos, Heritage Certificate and June 2017 MOT, it also comes with a spare refurbished original steering wheel, tonneau cover, spare rocker cover and spare Iris Blue paint in boot. A desirable early model with the sought after ‘pull doorhandles’ it retains its original aluminium bonnet which can easily be damaged with careless handling so please treat it with respect during the viewing!

MGB Roadsters from the first year of production are now extremely rare – indeed in the 10 years we have been hosting these sales this is the first one we have ever offered. Presented in very good order throughout, in arguably the best colour scheme, this properly restored example looks particularly authentic on its period disc wheels and is sure to draw lots of attention on the shown circuit.