MGB GT

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Every right-minded enthusiast should have an MGB at some time in their life. It is at this point that they will appreciate that a classic car doesn’t need to cost a fortune to run, break down all the time or be slow and uncomfortable.

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 of the open version. Built at the Abingdon works, it soon gained a reputation as an exciting and stylish sports car for those whose budget wouldn’t stretch to more exotic machines such as the Jaguar E-Type.

The MGB GT was powered by the 95bhp B-Series engine with twin 1½ inch SUs and was tough, reliable and economical, producing a 105mph top speed and although the acceleration was not a rapid as the open car due to its extra weight, it was still brisk, taking 13 seconds to reach 60mph. Transmission was via a conventional 4-speed gearbox to the rear axle.

The car gained a strong following in the USA and such was the influence that this market had at Abingdon headquarters that when a new headlight height regulation was introduced in North America, the car was re-designed to suit. This consisted of the simple expedient of raising the ride height by 1”. By 1974 the car had also been given larger more absorbent rubber bumpers to pass the new U.S regulations, which were then standardised across all markets.

Few cars of this era have anything like the back up and support that exists for MGBs. Although relatively plentiful thanks to the large number built, they should not be underestimated as competent, relatively fast GTs for everyday use. The MGB GT remained in production until 1980 by which time nearly 500,000 MGBs of all types had been produced, making it the most successful sports car ever, eclipsed only recently by the Mazda MX5.

This November 1978 MGB GT joined the Stondon Collection in 1996 and at the time the mileage showed as only 6,357 according to the only filed MOT from 1995. The V5 does state a number of previous keepers though so bidders are encouraged to investigate whether this mileage is genuine or should have a one hundred in front of it!