H&H Classics

1978 MG B GT

Registration No: MIB 1819
Chassis No: GHD5453635G
MOT: Exempt
Estimate: £3, 500 - £4, 500

Motor Car Location: Derbyshire

Current ownership since 2013
Recorded mileage of (1)14, 000 miles
Offered with a large history file
Introduced in May of 1962, the monocoque MG B was a welcome progression from the body-on-frame T-Series and MG A models that preceded it. A more modern construction was a revelation and resulted in weight savings, reduced manufacturing costs, and possessed notably tauter and sportier handling. Initially, the B was only available in Roadster form - the Pininfarina-penned hatchback GT derivative with 2+2 seating not being offered until October 1965.

From its launch, the model was powered by a three-bearing version of the 1798cc B-Series engine that produced 95bhp at 5, 400rpm. However, this unit was replaced by a five-bearing unit two years into production. The MKII model of 1967 brought an updated manual gearbox with revised ratios and synchromesh on all gears, as well as the option of a Borg-Warner automatic unit. Other changes included a revised rear axle and a switch from dynamos to alternators. In 1969, Rostyle wheels replaced the previous pressed steel version for a standard fit. With the MKIII derivative of 1972 came a new fascia and improved heater. However, the biggest visual change in the car's history occurred two years later when steel-reinforced plastic bumpers replaced the chrome ones and the ride height was raised by one inch. By the time GT production ceased in 1980, a total of 125, 282 are said to have been produced, a large proportion of which are still providing good service today.

Chassis ‘GHD5453635G’ was manufactured in 1978, and was supplied new to the home market being first registered on the 31st of March that year. Finished in Green paintwork with Black interior upholstery with Green piping, the MG is fitted with a Moto-Lita steering wheel and features a full-length sunroof. Purchased by the vendor in 2013, the BGT has a recorded and credible mileage of (1)14, 000 miles on the odometer. Provided with significant improvement around 2011-2012, ‘MIB 1819’ received a new electric fan; hubs and wheel bearings; new wheels and tyres; suspension improvement; a full interior refresh; a new stainless steel exhaust system; improvement to the cooling; and bodywork/ paintwork repairs as required. Offered now due to the vendor's ill health, the MG is supplied with a large history file that contains a very large quantity of previous invoices dating back to the 1990s, as well as a large collection of MOT certificates dating back, again back to the 1990s, and a current V5C document.