Description
The MGB is one of Britain’s most enduring sports cars, celebrated for its timeless styling, engaging driving experience and remarkable versatility. Yet for many enthusiasts, the ultimate evolution of Abingdon’s famous roadster was always the V8-powered variant that British Leyland hesitated to fully realise in open-top form until the arrival of the RV8 many years later. Presented here is an exceptional example of that vision brought to life — a beautifully engineered MGB V8 Roadster Conversion that combines outstanding craftsmanship, exhilarating performance and an extraordinary ownership story.
First registered on 1st April 1980 to Miss Beatrice Barr, this remarkable MGB began its transformation in 1989 when acquired by Major M. D. Cooper, a Chartered Mechanical Engineer serving within the REME. Determined to create the finest example possible, Major Cooper embarked upon a meticulous, no-expense-spared restoration and conversion programme, employing both his own considerable engineering expertise and the skills of carefully selected specialists throughout the project.
The restoration was exhaustive in scope. The body shell, panels and chassis components were stripped and sandblasted before being painstakingly inspected, repaired or replaced where required and refinished to an exceptional standard. The engine bay was expertly reconfigured to accommodate a fully reconditioned Rover V8 engine paired to the highly desirable 5-speed Rover SD1 gearbox. Suspension, braking and cooling systems were uprated to MGB GT V8 specification, ensuring the finished car possessed not only thrilling performance but also the composure and reliability to match. The completed restoration emerged in 1991 as one of the finest V8-converted MGB Roadsters imaginable.
Used sparingly thereafter and showing just 12, 630 miles, the car was declared SORN between 2004 and 2011 before passing to John Russell, who further enhanced the car with a full chrome bumper conversion, suspension upgrades and the addition of genuine Minilite alloy wheels, perfectly complementing the roadster’s purposeful yet understated appearance.
In 2012, the MG was acquired by, Ade Nursey, a Royal Navy Nuclear Engineer who immediately recognised the exceptional quality of the build. During seven years of devoted ownership, the car was maintained with absolute care and attention, benefiting from the expertise and precision one would expect from an engineer of his calibre. Producing an estimated 175bhp, this MGB delivers a driving experience every bit as intoxicating as its appearance suggests, accompanied by the unmistakable soundtrack of the Rover V8. Affectionately known as “Beattie” throughout its later life, the car has clearly been cherished by each of its owners.
The accompanying history file is nothing short of exceptional and documents the car’s journey in remarkable detail from 1980 to the present day. Included within the file are the original Passport to Service booklet, MOT certificates, invoices, restoration records, photographs and CD archives chronicling the conversion and rebuild, alongside a Heritage Certificate. Additional SD cards containing extensive photographic documentation are also present, while the previous owner has thoughtfully compiled a comprehensive written timeline detailing ownership history, mileage progression and maintenance works carried out throughout the years.
Offered once again by Milestone Classics, having previously sold the car over seven years ago, this outstanding MGB V8 Roadster Conversion represents a rare opportunity to acquire what is arguably one of the very best examples available on the market today. Beautifully engineered, superbly presented and with provenance to match, “Beattie” is a car that looks sensational, performs effortlessly and captures the spirit of the ultimate MGB better than almost anything else on the road.
Viewing is strictly by appointment only.
