Time has been kind to the MGC. Not universally loved when new thanks to its heavy-handed handling, the production run for the six-cylinder derivative of the B lasted just two years
It was withdrawn in September 1969 after a total of just 8,999 cars were built, which today makes it one of the rarest and therefore collectable MG variants.
This one is especially interesting. First, it’s an automatic, of which only 92 were made in right-hand-drive. Second, it was supplied by University Motors of London, which was the company’s premier dealership and assembled some MGCs on MG’s behalf. It’s not clear from the build records if this is a University build or an Abingdon car, but it was assembled over a five-month period in 1968, which is certainly a strange anomaly. zDveOmhQjPm23tCFOnOicIsoyNCsAt9vxm5m2Eno.jpeg2.21 MB
Inside, the MGC is in truly lovely order, having been subject to an interior retrim as part of its restoration.
The black leather seats are in excellent shape and are piped with red trim, while the door cards are trimmed to match. The carpets are also nearly new and in great condition.
It is supplied with a tonneau cover for the rear deck as well as a full-length tonneau for full weather protection. It also has the added advantage of a Smith’s heater and an electronic cut-out switch for added security.hFec7892YLTbxJAOh5KL2DKcZwv2E6VWFzVxXoMm.jpeg1.43 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Tartan Red
Fully restored
New roof
Incredible underneath
Although there’s no record of when the work was carried out, it’s believed that the MGC was restored at some point in the late 2000s and the quality of the work is absolutely astonishing – it’s in wonderful condition all over and aside from one very small coin-sized dent there’s nothing to be concerned about at all.
What’s more, we were shown the vehicle on a ramp and can confirm that the underside is in superb order, solid throughout and with no evidence of any structural corrosion.
Under the bonnet you’ll find the 2,929cc six-cylinder OHV engine from the Austin Westminster and Healey 3000, which is a smooth and responsive powerplant with a good turn of speed for its age.
But the interesting part is the transmission. The three-speed auto was never a popular option in the UK, but it’s described by a number of experts as actually the best transmission ever fitted to the C, as it works brilliantly in tandem with the torquey engine.
We were able to drive the car and can report that it’s incredibly smooth and has a lot of low-down traction, while the speed per 1,000 revs is documented to be 27mph, exactly the same as a manual car with overdrive. The brakes, steering and suspension all behaved well on test.
This is a wonderful Sixties classic that really looks the part, and is quite different to a common or garden MGB, with six-cylinder traction and decent performance. It’s also in fabulous condition throughout and has been beautiful restored. A rare and fantastic opportunity for someone.
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