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Looking for a summer project? Try something a little different, but a lot more charming!
An MG Gentry. This is a copy of an MG TF, BUT it is not based on a Triumph Herald/ Spitfire chassis, instead it is built on a bespoke chassis to take MGB components. So it uses tried and tested MGB running gear, brakes and suspension and a good old “B” series engine. Not only that but as the chassis is purpose built the overall dimensions and proportions of the car are that more “genuine” and aesthetically pleasing. Maybe I’m preaching to the converted, if you know anything about Gentrys you’ll know what I mean, if you don’t, stick with me you might be converted.
The original Gentry kit car was first designed and built in 1973 by Roger Blockley trading as The RMB Motor Company Limited, Roger Blockley having worked at Triumph he based his kit around Triumph Herald/ Vitesse chassis/ running gear, originally it was a “body-off” conversion. I’m afraid I don’t know the where’s, when’s and how’s (why should not be too difficult to work out) but at some point an “MGB” configuration must have been added, RMB traded successfully for 14 years after all! RMB became first SP, then TP Motors until late in the 90’s when The Vintage Motor Company thought they espied an opportunity. Whether they were wrong in their foresight or just unable to get their act together is one for the history books (with m’learned friends consent first, no doubt) and I hear that most recently rights to produce this pretty little retro-roadster have been acquired by two Gentry enthusiasts with “relaunch” plans imminent. I certainly hope so and wish them well, perhaps I might even get to be a customer one day.
I have the (1987) V5 for the MGB donor (1st reg 1/ 11/ 1966) aswell as its MG Car Company Ltd “VIN” plate. The Chassis No. and Engine No. on the “VIN” match those stated on the V5. I never got around to making enquiries with DVLA re updating the V5 however.
The engine has been reconditioned and converted to run unleaded, the gearbox also is fully reconditioned, with overdrive. Spax, adjustable suspension on the rear axle. The car also has a new heater matrix fitted.
I bought this car in April 2003 (from a very nice chap in Liverpool-the fuzzy picture showing the car looking “complete” is his) who himself had bought it similarly as an unfinished project (I think he did less than I have but then he was rebuilding a Minor Convertible). He only sold it (on ebay) because his workshop was to be demolished and otherwise I am sure it would be on the road by now. In the time I have owned it I have moved house several times from Edinburgh to the South-west (including living on a canal-boat!) and changed careers-to less money and more satisfaction, of course. I’m not sure how I have managed to keep hold of her for so long and thanks all those friends whose garages, sheds and barns I borrowed, finally however I have to admit defeat. The spirit is the only part left willing!!
I have managed some work, mostly refurbishing the front running gear, new wheel bearings, brake discs, callipers, springs and bushes, bolts etc. All ready to do the back too I discovered, on removing the drums, all was pristinely already done. I have also amassed a collection of MG brightwork and other bits –if I can manage I’ll add a general photo of these too.
If you are interested enough to want to chat e-mail/ contact me and I’ll give you my number.
Included:
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· Part completed rolling chassis (engine not running since 2003), clutch and brakes not connected/ plumbed in, 4x wire wheels, 4x Avon SP7 tyres-fitted,
· Bodywork, 2x front wings, 2x running boards, 2x rear wings, 1x rear valance, 2x doors, 2x engine/ bonnet aluminium side panels-with louvred vents and carb “bulge” bonded in, 1x centre hinged aluminium bonnet, 1x glazed windscreen (with fitting brackets/ feet),
· 2x reconditioned exchange brake callipers, new brake pads, various “MGB” spares-2 boxes worth incl. oil cooling radiator.
Cash only sale –on collection- as you will need a trailer/ transporter to collect.
