Description
This 1964 MGB Roadster is an exemplary Mk1 model, featuring original pull-handle doors, wire wheels, and factory overdrive. Finished in Old English White, its bodywork is in outstanding condition, with excellent panel alignment and a consistent, high-quality paint finish that indicates its careful preservation.
Reimported from California in 1997, the car arrived rust-free thanks to its dry-climate history. Since returning to the UK, it has been garaged continuously and never driven in wet conditions. The structure remains corrosion-free, offering a rare opportunity to acquire a solid-bodied early Roadster.
Over 16 years of private ownership, this vehicle has undergone a measured process of returning it to its correct Mk1 specification, following various modifications carried out prior to acquisition. Wherever possible, original components have been refurbished and reinstated, with attention to detail that prioritises authenticity.
The engine performs faultlessly, showing excellent oil pressure and smooth power delivery. Twin SU carburettors are tuned accurately, and the gearbox shifts cleanly with overdrive functioning precisely. The braking system is sharp, and the suspension provides composed, confidence-inspiring handling.
Interior condition is immaculate, retaining original trim elements with tasteful patina and minimal wear. All electrical systems operate correctly, with thoughtful upgrades including a discreet electronic ignition conversion, alternator replacement, and master battery cut-off switch—improving reliability while respecting period character.
Only 3, 496 miles have been added under current ownership, all in dry conditions. The car has received regular maintenance, regardless of cost, and is ready for immediate use, requiring no mechanical attention.
Features:
- 3 synchro gearbox with Laycock overdrive
- Alloy bonnet
- Pull handles
- Single 12-volt battery with key isolator
- Stainless steel exhaust
- Stainless steel fuel tank manufactured to original design
- Original bumpers with excellent chrome
- Correct painted wire wheels with good tyres including spare
- Correct interior trim and fittings
- Fully working period radio with original speaker
- Vinyl hood with period folding frame in superb condition
- Full Tonneau cover
- Period seat belts
- Wax oiled
- Electronic ignition
- Discrete hazard warning light system
- History and maintenance documentation
- Heritage Certificate
- MOT until May 2026 (No advisories)
- Insurance valuation £25, 000Acquired 16 years ago, this Mk1 MGB Roadster stood out for its structural integrity, originality, and the potential to reinstate its correct early specification. Having previously undergone changes over the years, it became the focus of a gradual and carefully considered process to restore its authentic configuration—an effort driven by a deep respect for the model’s design and heritage.
Pull-handle MGBs represent the purest expression of the Roadster’s origins. Their rarity, simplicity, and mechanical purity make them highly desirable to collectors and motoring enthusiasts alike. This particular example was chosen not for being over-restored, a quality which has been preserved throughout ownership.
The car has never been treated as a showpiece or a project, but rather as an honest labour of love. It has seen minimal mileage—just 3, 496 dry-road miles—yet each journey has reaffirmed its character and driveability. It offers a refined and confident driving experience, enhanced by sympathetic upgrades that ensure reliability without compromising originality: notably, the installation of electronic ignition, an alternator, and a master battery cut-off switch.
What distinguishes this car is its coherence: structurally original, mechanically sorted, and visually faithful to its era. It offers more than just classic aesthetics—it delivers mechanical satisfaction and an ownership experience rooted in quality and provenance. From its distinctive pull-handle doors to the way it sits and drives, this is a classic that retains the essence of early 1960s British motoring.
A true head-turner, this much-admired car presents as one of the very best usable examples of the mark, a fact that saw it being selected for inclusion in the respected book “The Enthusiasts Guide to Buying A Classic British Sports Car”.
This much-loved car has accompanied me throughout my retirement to date, and it will be sorely missed. However, the time is now right to take on a new challenge and allow a new custodian to take pleasure from this beautiful car.
