• Comprehensively restored in 2010-11 with photographic record
• Original optional hardtop
• Below average mileage
• Statement of origin from BMI Heritage Trust

In 1962 the MGB was launched as the replacement for the legendary MGA, and was immediately an enormous success. Featuring the robust B-series engine, putting out a healthy 95bhp, and great styling, it’s easy to see why it was so popular. 

It remained so for almost two decades, only reaching the end of its production run in 1980. To this day, it’s a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts and anyone who simply wants a great handling roadster, with good examples being especially sought-after.

This little roadster has an interesting history. It started life as a left-hand-drive export to the US. It was re-imported to the UK about 30 years ago and dry-stored for some 20 years. 

Then, about 10 years ago, the previous owner had the car professionally converted to right-hand-drive and extensively restored and recommissioned. However, it was then mostly kept in dry storage again, until very recently.

The car comes with the V5 and a reasonable amount of receipts from works carried out over the years. Most notably, the owner is providing a statement of origin letter from the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust. Although now classed as a Historic Vehicle, and therefore tax and MOT exempt, the vehicle comes with a new MOT with now advisories that runs until March 2023.

A photographic record of the vehicles restoration 10 years ago is present, confirming the extent of works undertaken, including a bare metal respray.

Featuring a tasteful grey-ribbed carpet and black vinyl combination, the interior of the car is in good, original condition. There is some wear and tear, and a level of patina that should be expected on a 50 year old car, but overall the internal trim is solid and well kept. 

The seats, in particular, are in very good condition, as is the dashboard, switchgear and dials. We are assured by the owner that everything works as it should.

Unlike many MGBs, which have been extensively modified or had period elements removed, this car features a number of original features, including the steering wheel, gear-shifter and period Phillips stereo.

There are Blaupunkt speakers mounted in the front doors. The boot area is also tidy and clean, containing a full-size spare wheel, jack and fire extinguisher.

Externally the car is in very good condition having been extensively restored, including a bare metal respray, about 10 years ago. That it has spent so many years in dry storage has no doubt helped to maintain the condition of the bodywork. 

The bright orange paintwork looks very clean and tidy, bearing just a few blemishes and age-related marks. Bumpers, over-riders and all the rest of the chrome trim pieces are also in very good condition, with just minor age-related wear. 

As well as the fabric hood, which is in fine condition, the vehicle comes with a black vinyl tonneau cover and a black original hardtop. The hardtop is quite a rare item and has been kept very well; making this a car you could genuinely use all year round.

The twin stainless exhaust pipes and 14” Minilite wheels, which are all in excellent condition, add a real sporting edge. Overall, this little roadster really looks the part.

MG’s B-series has always been a great little engine, offering a healthy 95bhp from its 1.8 litre capacity and offering a great induction noise from these twin SU carburettors.

Twinned here with the traditional 4-speed manual gearbox, it should offer a fun and engaging drivetrain. We’re assured by the current owner that the mechanicals of this roadster are all in very good condition.

Paperwork included with the car indicates that the starter motor was replaced in 2019, it was also serviced in May 2021.

Open-top motoring holds an enduring appeal, and it’s easy to see why. Not much beats the joy of flitting about the countryside, wind in your hair, naturally-aspirated engine roaring away as you slide through the gears. 

And an MGB Roadster is a fantastic way to do that. It’s a classic choice for a reason: lightweight, great to drive, simple to work on and robust with parts easily available. They’re a perfect starter classic, or a great car for someone that wants to spend more time driving their classic than working on it.

This car is a great example too, replete with some of the best features offered on the MGB. For starters, it’s a chrome-bumper model, which is always the best choice. Then there’s the 4-speed manual (perfectly suited to the car’s character), the hardtop which offers year-round comfort and drivability, and the Minilite wheels – which we think are a brilliant complement for the car.

It’s important to note that, while there is a reasonable amount of paperwork with the car, it comes with a photographic record of extensive restoration just 10 years ago and a statement of origin from the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust, which should give confidence in the car’s provenance.

We think this looks like a cracking little car with lots of potential. With the right owner and a bit of love, you could have a car that will give you many years of fun and joy. We’ve always loved the MGB, and in this specification – bright orange paintwork over black interior – we love it even more. Grab yourself a sunny delight and enjoy some proper, old school, wind-in-the-hair motoring.