VLC 123M underwent its build between the 13th and 25th March, 1974 and was dispatched to Ealing-based Kennings Car Mart shortly after on 27th March. During the intervening 47 years, it is likely that each of its eight former keepers loved it more than the previous. The car left MG’s Abingdon factory fitted with alloys wheels and overdrive as options.
The current owner acquired the car in February 2019, from a family member. On 4th October 2018, the car received an MoT, registering 78,421 miles on the odometer at that time. This has not changed by much in the last few years due a lack of use. In this time, the car has been stored at a professional storage facility.
As the car has not been enjoyed to the degree originally intended, the current keeper wants it to go to a more appreciative home to be driven and loved as it should be. The car will receive a fresh MoT prior to collection by its new keeper.
Along with the V5C, there is a sizeable file of additional paperwork containing previous MoT’s, spares and maintenance invoices from recent years, together with a Certified Copy of a Factory Record, issued by the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, showing the original spec and the cars original registration mark of XGF171M.
Unfortunately, there is no owner’s handbook or service and maintenance record book.
The car’s original interior reflects its ‘lovingly used’ condition and would be a delightful place to spend some immersive road time.
The veneered dashboard is in very good condition, as are the instruments. Black leather covers the furniture and the door cards are in good order. The rear parcel shelf is covered in matching carpet, beneath which is retained the fifth spare alloy wheel and associated tools. A nice touch is the neat pair of chromed oversills bearing the MG logo.
Notable issues include a torn upholstery panel on the right C-pillar and an empty space for an audio unit in the centre console. However, commensurate with the car’s mileage and 47 years, the interior presents to a notably good standard. Minor jobs for those days tinkering in the garage on a Sunday afternoon!
VLC 123M was among the last of the 1,862 chrome-bumpered BGT’s to come off the line at Abingdon in 1974, before MG introduced the rubber-bumpered model from October of that year.
Body panels are blemish-free and the Agate Red paintwork gleams to a high standard as does the brightwork. The set of factory-fitted alloy wheels finish the GT’s exterior aesthetic very well. The front and rear lights are clear of the usual age-related fog and all electrics are said to be in working order.
The iconic Rover V8 unit appears to be in fine fettle, idling nicely and delivering that gorgeous, unmistakable soundtrack. Being extremely light, the V8 is definitely the drivers choice over the heavier, straight six equipped MGC variant.
The vendor reports that the car drives very well with everything performing just as you'd expect.
The car has recently had some recommissioning work and a new MOT will be carried out for the new custodian. The underside appears tidy and in good order, with a condition fully commensurate with its mileage and 47 years.NHrEokkji1C5k3U6vnWMzNyDfqjGZLwbhDIlk29v.jpeg805.04 KB
The Appeal
Like bangers ‘n’ mash, pints of bitter, mowing the lawn or washing cars by hand on a sunny Sunday, the iconic MGB GT is a staple of everyday life in Britain.
Although sad to see it go, the time has come for the owner to let this iconic car continue its story with a new owner, hopefully with many more smiles-per-gallon ahead of it. Anyone that wants something a bit more left field as a daily car can take great comfort in knowing that this one wears its miles elegantly. It's ready to transport a new owner back in time to 1974, when David Bowie was king and the sound of a thunderous Rover V8 echoing across the countryside was not just for leisure.
With just 2591 factory V8's built, this is a very rare beast and represents an excellent opportunity to enjoy the classic MGB experience with an engine that just inspires you to drop a cog and take in that glorious iconic soundtrack.
There is a wealth of information and technical support on this MGB GT model available on the V8 Register website, which has stimulated interest among prospective owners and helped them gain an informed awareness of the car.
This example of the MGB GT V8 is in good fettle throughout and should serve its new owner for many more years to come – and not just on Sundays.
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