1974 MGB GT V8

Highlights

• Highly presentable inside and out
• Colour-matched roll-back sunroof
• Will come with fresh MoT
• Rare factory V8

The History

VLC 123M underwent its build between the 13th and 25th March, 1974 and was dispatched to Ealing-based Kennings Car Mart shortly after on 27th March. During the intervening 47 years, it is likely that each of its eight former keepers loved it more than the previous. The car left MG’s Abingdon factory fitted with alloys wheels and overdrive as options.

The current owner acquired the car in February 2019, from a family member. On 4th October 2018, the car received an MoT, registering 78,421 miles on the odometer at that time. This has not changed by much in the last few years due a lack of use. In this time, the car has been stored at a professional storage facility.

As the car has not been enjoyed to the degree originally intended, the current keeper wants it to go to a more appreciative home to be driven and loved as it should be. The car will receive a fresh MoT prior to collection by its new keeper.

The Paperwork

Along with the V5C, there is a sizeable file of additional paperwork containing previous MoT’s, spares and maintenance invoices from recent years, together with a Certified Copy of a Factory Record, issued by the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, showing the original spec and the cars original registration mark of XGF171M.

Unfortunately, there is no owner’s handbook or service and maintenance record book.

The Interior

The car’s original interior reflects its ‘lovingly used’ condition and would be a delightful place to spend some immersive road time.

The veneered dashboard is in very good condition, as are the instruments. Black leather covers the furniture and the door cards are in good order. The rear parcel shelf is covered in matching carpet, beneath which is retained the fifth spare alloy wheel and associated tools. A nice touch is the neat pair of chromed oversills bearing the MG logo.

Notable issues include a torn upholstery panel on the right C-pillar and an empty space for an audio unit in the centre console. However, commensurate with the car’s mileage and 47 years, the interior presents to a notably good standard. Minor jobs for those days tinkering in the garage on a Sunday afternoon!

The Exterior

VLC 123M was among the last of the 1,862 chrome-bumpered BGT’s to come off the line at Abingdon in 1974, before MG introduced the rubber-bumpered model from October of that year.

Body panels are blemish-free and the Agate Red paintwork gleams to a high standard as does the brightwork. The set of factory-fitted alloy wheels finish the GT’s exterior aesthetic very well. The front and rear lights are clear of the usual age-related fog and all electrics are said to be in working order.

The roll-back sunroof has seen little use and is said by the owner to be in good order.

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The Mechanics

The iconic Rover V8 unit appears to be in fine fettle, idling nicely and delivering that gorgeous, unmistakable soundtrack.
Being extremely light, the V8 is definitely the drivers choice over the heavier, straight six equipped MGC variant.

The vendor reports that the car drives very well with everything performing just as you'd expect.

The car has recently had some recommissioning work and a new MOT will be carried out for the new custodian.
The underside appears tidy and in good order, with a condition fully commensurate with its mileage and 47 years.

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The Appeal

Like bangers ‘n’ mash, pints of bitter, mowing the lawn or washing cars by hand on a sunny Sunday, the iconic MGB GT is a staple of everyday life in Britain.

Although sad to see it go, the time has come for the owner to let this iconic car continue its story with a new owner, hopefully with many more smiles-per-gallon ahead of it. Anyone that wants something a bit more left field as a daily car can take great comfort in knowing that this one wears its miles elegantly. It's ready to transport a new owner back in time to 1974, when David Bowie was king and the sound of a thunderous Rover V8 echoing across the countryside was not just for leisure.

With just 2591 factory V8's built, this is a very rare beast and represents an excellent opportunity to enjoy the classic MGB experience with an engine that just inspires you to drop a cog and take in that glorious iconic soundtrack.

There is a wealth of information and technical support on this MGB GT model available on the V8 Register website, which has stimulated interest among prospective owners and helped them gain an informed awareness of the car.

This example of the MGB GT V8 is in good fettle throughout and should serve its new owner for many more years to come – and not just on Sundays.




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Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.

As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.

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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1974
  • Make MG
  • Model B GT V8
  • Colour Agate Red
  • Odometer 78,421 Miles
  • Engine size 3528
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Location Dorset
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
6 bids from 3 bidders
  • Br•••• £17,000 13/06/22
  • nm•••• £16,750 13/06/22
  • nm•••• £16,500 08/06/22
  • nm•••• £16,000 08/06/22
  • wa•••• £2,500 08/06/22
  • Br•••• £1,000 08/06/22
Message C&C Auction Team

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