Highlights
- MGB Roadster with a subtle V8 twist
- Good history file
- MOT and tax exempt but usefully regularly MOT tested
- Smartly finished in Teal Blue on 15in Minators
The Appeal
The popularity of the B meant that MG never really had to change it much. But the firm did provide some signposts for owners keen to personalise their cars, like the potent V8-engined BGT and the lightweight Sebring cars that competed in the mid-60s.
This pretty 1977 B Roadster marries those two strands together. Under the bonnet is the 3.5litre Rover V8 engine that MG never quite got round to fitting to the convertible and it has been modified in the style of those Sebring racers.
It has recently been recommissioned after two years in dry storage. Beyond the smart Teal Blue bodywork are numerous improvements to the running gear to ensure this burbling British classic has the handling to match the power. Looking purposeful on its 14in Minators, this looks like a very entertaining and highly rewarding buy.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered on 23rd April 1977
- Originally factory supplied as a rubber bumper car
- Converted by a previous owner to Sebring Style without bumpers and modified running gear
- Vendor informs us that the car has been dry stored over the last two years with only 200 miles covered
- MOT records confirm this
- MOT records incorrectly record the mileage in kms, which appears to be an error by the tester
- Current owner since 1st October 2021
- The seller tells us that there is lots of history with the car including old tax discs, invoices and MOTs
Modifications and upgrades include:
- Fitted with a Rover 3.5litre V8 engine with dyno read out shown in the photographs
- LT77 5spd manual gearbox
- Cosworth clutch
- New Holly carburettor and manifold
- Stainless steel exhaust and manifolds
- 4 pot Willwood alloy calipers
- Vented front discs
- Uprated front suspension with lowered springs
- Large roll bar
- Braided brake hoses
- Dual fans
- Adjustable Gaz rear shock absorbers
- Polybushed all round
The Interior
- Original interior that is well kept and well presented
- Overall it is in good condition and reflects the usability of this car
- Original except for the addition of an attractive wood-rimmed three spoke steering wheel and Luke red racing harnesses
- Standard cloth seats in good, presentable condition
- Door cards are unmarked and with complete, undamaged fittings
- Dashboard is very smart with good switchgear, no visible cracks and complete down to the radio blanking plate
- Auxiliary switches fitted to right hand end of dashboard
- Correct ‘5spd’ gear knob
- Carpets appear to be original and are presentable but could be improved
- Boot lid sound deadening is partly missing
- Holes cut into rear bulkhead for speakers
The Exterior
- Older refurbishment in Teal Blue with adaptation to Sebring Style from original rubber bumpers
- Lowered suspension to suit the more sporting style of this car
- Fitted with attractive 15in Minator alloy wheels in good, undamaged condition
- Nanking Sports tyres fitted all round
- Underside in good condition with coating of underseal and no MOT structural advisories
- Vinyl roof with tonneau cover provides drop top versatility
- Clear vinyl roof window panels
- Some areas of deterioration around the car to note but none requiring immediate attention
- Bubbling on passenger door at the base
- Both rear wings show cracking on the trailing edges
- Some bubbling at the offside rear corner of the boot lid
The Mechanics
- 3.5litre Rover V8 engine and dyno print out provided with car
- LT77 5spd manual gearbox
- Desirable running gear upgrades listed above to improve sound and drivability of the car
- Unfortunately we do not know when this car was last serviced
- Enthusiast owned and only for sale as seller is upgrading to a MGR V8
Summary
Dropping the V8 engine into the BGT worked so well that only restricted supply of engines apparently stopped MG doing the same thing with the Roadster. Thankfully many owners have done what MG didn’t, turning their convertibles into burbling British classics.
Converting the car to V8 is one thing, ensuring it drives as well as it sounds is an altogether harder task. Previous owners of this smart Teal Blue V8 have thankfully done just that, upgrading the suspension and running gear to match the extra power. As such it looks like a very entertaining and highly usable V8 that is ready for the open road.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
