The development of the MGB Roadster started in 1958, with the code name MG EX205. It has a unitary structure as opposed to the traditional body on frame construction used on the MGA and the MG T-type. It wasn't until 4 years later, in 1962, that the British Motor Corporation BMC started to market the MGB, and finally offered it to purchase in 1963.
The Engine used in the MGB was the BMC B-series engine, which was the previous MGA’s 1600cc engine that had been taken out to 1800cc. Originally, the early cars had a three main bearing crankshaft which was changed to five bearing in 1974, and were fueled by twin SU carburettors.
Production for the Roadster continued up until 1980, with the main change in the latter part of 1974, when the introduction of rubber bumpers came into force to meet impact regulations like the one we have here today.
This lovely little MGB roadster has been with the owner since late 2017, early 2018. It was purchased as a fun weekend toy to use on sunny days out. Having got the car, it was felt the paint work could have been a little more shiny, (often the case with yellow, it can go a little pale). A trip to the local body shop, and it was suggested that the MGB was given just an exterior blow over rather than a full strip down and repaint, as the car was solid and didn't need anything serious like welding or panels replacing.
With the car painted, the seller took a trip over to his property on the Isle of Man. Unfortunately, this came at the wrong time, as it was just as the lockdowns began. This means that since then, the car hasn’t really been used, apart from being regularly started by another family member.
The seller has decided to put the MGB Roadster up for grabs purley down to such little use.
The V5 is present and shows there are 7 previous keepers.
Looking back through the MOT history, the MGB has certainly had an easy life since at least 2008, as it has only covered around 6,000 miles since then.
Inside the MG, the dashboard is free from any splits. There are some small scuffs around the glove box area, but nothing that stands out too much. The instruments are all in good condition with no obvious scratches to the faces, and everything is working as it should. The odometer is displaying a reading of 66,030 miles, incidentally just 20 miles more than the last MOT in 2019. The switch gear is all in good condition, with no real wear to the lettering on the switches.
The door cards are in good condition for the age, and have just a few scuffs to the lower part from getting in and out of the car. There have also been some speakers fitted, but there is no longer a head unit. The seats are trimmed in black vinyl and are in really good condition with no signs of any excessive wear.
Down to the carpets, and to the drivers side there is the usual bit that has worn on the driver’s heel pad. The carpet on the passenger side, around the transmission tunnel, has come unstuck, (some spray adhesive should sort that out). The gear knob has the 1,2,3,4 and reverse, plus the overdrive switch that is reported to be working as it should.
Into the boot which houses the spare wheel with a new tyre fitted, still bearing the sticker. The rest of the boot looks to be in good condition with no corrosion, just some age related scuffs.
The exterior of the MGB Roadster is finished in Aztec Yellow which has been repainted, as already mentioned.
Starting at the front, and with just a small number of miles covered since the respray, stone chips are not an issue. The bonnet looks to align nice and straight with the panel gaps matching. Up to the windscreen, and this has no scratches to mention, other than general age. The chrome window surround is nice and bright with no corrosion. Being produced after 1974 means the MGB Roadster has the rubber bumpers to meet the safety standards at the time. The front one is in good order with no scuffs that we could spot.
The sides of the MG are nice and straight with just some slight damage to the chrome trim on the front driver’s side wing, and also a scratch just below it. This is a readily available part to replace from a number of MG specialists. The door handles are free from corrosion and the window surrounds are finished well. The side windows are in good condition on both sides. Being a Roadster, it comes with a convertible roof. This has no damage to the outside and fits as well as you would expect. The windows in there are clear and have escaped becoming cloudy, which is quite common.
Onto the boot area and the boot lid aligns straight and even, the MG badge is in good condition and the bumper is free from any scuffs. The light clusters are both free from any cracks.
The wheels are in excellent condition with no corrosion to the faces, and are free from any kerb marks. The tyres are worn, but do have some good tread remaining for the new owner.
Give it a little choke and the 1800 cc engine fires into life with ease. There are no untoward noises that shouldn't be there, and the car ticks over just as it should. The seller has given the MG a service since getting it.
The seller reports the MGB is a lovely fun car to drive, and it handles wonderfully whilst on the country roads. The gear change through the 4-speed manual gearbox, with optional overdrive, is a joy to use, with the car pulling well and the change is smooth. The MG stops as well as it goes, with the brakes reported to be working as they should.
A later model MGB roadster with the rubber bumpers. Sometimes people do prefer the look of the chrome bumper model, well good news! There are kits available that will do just that for those wanting the earlier look of the MGB.
A British made, 2 seater roadster, with a recent freshen up on the paintwork, is now waiting to be enjoyed on a weekend run into the countryside with sun out and the roof off. What more needs to be said other than, where are the keys?
Notice to bidders
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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