Beschreibung
Since its introduction in 1962, the MGB has become one of the most popular classic cars ever built. Over the course of its 18-year production run, more than 500, 000 of them left the factory and it continues to attract a strong following thanks to its blend of attractive styling and proven engineering.
The MGB was a more practical and modern car than the MGA that it replaced and featured monocoque construction, but it carried over the B-Series engine that had been used in its predecessor. It was enlarged from 1622cc to 1798cc, and the robust four-cylinder unit produced 95bhp on twin SU carburettors.
Although the MGB was originally launched in roadster form only, the Pininfarina-designed MGB GT coupé was added to the range in late 1965. Its improved aerodynamics made it slightly faster than the open car, with a top speed of 105mph, while a rear bench gave it nominal 2+2 status. The latter allowed MG’s advertising department to state that potential owners could now have ‘a real sports car… and a family!’
The MGB GT being offered for sale is a very early example, having been built at the Abingdon factory in Oxfordshire from 12-14 January 1966. According to the Heritage Certificate, it was dispatched on 1 March to Morris Garages Ltd and given the registration NKX 999D – a Buckinghamshire number that it still wears today.
Chassis number G-HD3/ 80637 was a right-hand-drive UK-market car fitted with the optional centre-lock 60-spoke wire wheels and a heater, which was not standard fitment on home-market cars until late 1968. It is still presented in its factory colour combination of Sandy Beige with a black interior and white piping, and in 2012 it won the ‘Best MGB’ award at the model’s 50th anniversary celebrations at the Brooklands Museum.
Various updates were applied during the MGB’s long production run. A Mark II model arrived in 1967 with an all-synchromesh gearbox, then the British Leyland era ushered in plastic seats instead of leather, Rostyle wheels and a revised grille. Safety legislation led to the adoption in 1974 of the distinctive ‘rubber bumpers’, and in late 1979 it was announced that MGB production would end the following year and the Abingdon factory would be closed.
NKX 999D is an extremely original example of a sought-after early MGB GT, and this enduring British sports car now benefits from unrivalled club and spares back-up. Little wonder it’s still such a popular choice of classic car.
The car is currently with RPS’ sister company, the SASCo storage facilityand available for inspection.
All viewings and test drives welcomed by appointment at Rally Preparation Services.
All enquiries please contact us on using the button below or telephone +44(0)the details below
