Highlights
- Genuine MG-built BGT V8 in great colour combination
- Webasto Sunroof ‘ragtop’ model
- In current ownership for nearly 30 years
- Ready to use and enjoy
- Scope to improve as you use
- MOT exempt but usefully MOT tested, valid to November 2023
- Tax exempt
The Appeal
The MGB GT is a car that enjoys enduring appeal across the whole spectrum of the automotive enthusiast world; from young drivers wanting their first classic to veterans that prepare concours-standard examples for shows.
For those in the latter camp, arguably one of the most desirable models available is a factory-built V8, such as this one that we have here.
Purchased by the current owner in 1994, the car was restored and then regularly used for a number of years, before an E-Type was purchased and knocked the MG off from its ‘top spot’ in the garage. Sadly, at this point, B GT values were at rock-bottom, meaning the cost of further works was not justifiable, and it sat in warm storage for around 20 years.
With BGT V8 values sky-rocketing this is an interesting opportunity to buy a solid, very presentable V8 with MOT that be used 'as is' or gradually invested in whilst fully enjoying it. Very original in a nice colour scheme, it is a great introduction to the highly capable, very burbly world of these classic British GT cars.
With BGT V8 values sky-rocketing this is an interesting opportunity to buy a solid, very presentable V8 with MOT that be used 'as is' or gradually invested in whilst fully enjoying it. Very original in a nice colour scheme, it is a great introduction to the highly capable, very burbly world of these classic British GT cars.
The History & Paperwork
- V5 Registered keepers document present
- The original handbooks and manual are also present
- No paperwork other than the above is included with the sale of the vehicle
- In current ownership for nearly 30 years
- Dry-stored as part of an extensive collection of classics for circa 20 years
- Recently recommissioned by the vendor
- MOT to November 2023 with no advisories
The car has been in the long term ownership of the vendor who had it restored in the mid 90s. It subsequently went into dry storage as part of his classic car collection for around 20 years.
The vendor recently decided to recommission this V8 ‘B’ with a sale in mind. It was brought up to MOT standard - it has test cover until November 2023 with no advisories - and attention paid to the mechanicals to make it reliable. He states that there is “no welding required to my knowledge.
With the comfort of that MOT test and recent recommissioning this looks like an excellent option for someone looking for a useable, drivable example of these superb V8-engined mini GTs. It provides scope to enjoy it now whilst gradually improving it and reaping the aesthetic and financial rewards.
The vendor recently decided to recommission this V8 ‘B’ with a sale in mind. It was brought up to MOT standard - it has test cover until November 2023 with no advisories - and attention paid to the mechanicals to make it reliable. He states that there is “no welding required to my knowledge.
With the comfort of that MOT test and recent recommissioning this looks like an excellent option for someone looking for a useable, drivable example of these superb V8-engined mini GTs. It provides scope to enjoy it now whilst gradually improving it and reaping the aesthetic and financial rewards.
The Interior
- Re-trimmed and overhauled in around 1996
- New carpet set fitted in recent years
- In good overall condition, with no damage or tears noted to the seats
- The leather retains a rich colour and texture
- Up above, the factory Webasto Sunroof works as it should with no reported waterproofing issues
- The high-traffic areas such as the dash face, switchgear and steering wheel exhibit a commensurate usage patina
- The headliner is generally clean throughout, though it is sagging around the sunroof aperture on the sides
- The spare wheel is included in the rear, but there is no tyre currently fitted
The Exterior
- Previously resprayed at the beginning of the vendor’s ownership tenure
- Presents in fair condition overall, but would benefit from an aesthetic overhaul to take it ‘to the next level’ of condition
- There are numerous scuffs, light scratches and other typical age-related blemishes noted around the car, as seen in the gallery below
- There are a few areas of paint bubbling/reacting (most notably on the upper offside edge of the bonnet) along with some gravel rash visible on the exposed edges of the car
- The various chrome trims all appear to be present, wearing a commensurate age-related patina
- All four wheels are in great condition, the tyres are old and would recommend changing, but are useable as they sit
The Mechanicals
- 3.5-litre V8 engine in good health
- Starts, runs and drives with no reported issues
- Twin carburettors have been rebuilt and work as they should
- The engine bay, block and ancillaries would benefit from a thorough detailing to bring them back to their best
- Underneath, the seller states that the car is in good condition and has no areas that require welding “to the best of my [the vendor] knowledge”
- As always, we’ve included a number of chassis photographs at the end of the gallery below
Summary
Dropping the Rover V8 into the MGB coupe shell created a very capable GT with a distinctive soundtrack and handling that was arguably better than the smaller-engined car. With all the usability you'd expect from a MGB plus the reliability of the Rover engine, it is no surprise that these practical cars remain so in demand.
This pretty V8 has recently been recommissioned and comes with the reassurance of MOT to November with no advisories. It is very presentable but with scope to improve, giving the buyer the chance to enjoy it now with the reward of gradual improvement.
This pretty V8 has recently been recommissioned and comes with the reassurance of MOT to November with no advisories. It is very presentable but with scope to improve, giving the buyer the chance to enjoy it now with the reward of gradual improvement.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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