Highlights

Previously restored to a high standard and impeccably preserved ever since
Accompanied by a substantial and carefully curated history file
The current owner has spent over £7,000 maintaining its mechanical condition

The Appeal

Abingdon's answer to the revered Austin Healey 3000, the MGC was based upon the immensely capable MGB, but swapped out the 1.8-litre B-Series engine in favour of a 3.0-litre straight-six from an Austin saloon. Sending its power to the rear wheels via a full synchromesh manual gearbox, the MGC produced a stout 145bhp - a staggering 50% increase over the MGB.

While it never matched the sales success of the Healey, the MGC was a brilliant sports car in its own right and enthusiasts rightly recognise its greatness today. The sheer rarity of these cars now is more than enough reason to get an itch in your wallet - they even have some racing heritage with lightweight coupés competing at Sebring as well as the 84-hour Marathon de la Route at the Nurburgring, taking home 6th position.

This example benefits from past restoration to a very high standard. Since then, a great deal of care and attention have been lavished upon it, with the vendor stating they've spent in excess of £7,000 in mechanical upkeep alone.

Exempt from road tax and MOT testing, it's ready to enjoy and the vendor assures us that it drives exceedingly well.

The History and Paperwork

Originally registered on the 1st of August 1968
Purchased by the current keeper on the 1st March 2018
Binder full of paperwork present with the vehicle
V5C present and correct ready for transfer of ownership
Old MOT certificates present, with the most recent MOT being done in 2021 with a clean pass
MOT and road tax exempt as the vehicle is now classed as a historic vehicle
Previous sale documents are present in the vehicles binder, along with some images of the car and a section named ‘Renovation details’ from its former restoration
Handbook present with two sets of keys

The Condition

Earlier restoration example which remains in excellent condition throughout thanks to careful and loving ownership
Some very gentle imperfections as to be expected, the keeper states that the vehicle has only been dry driven in the last 6 years and garage kept when not in use
White paintwork appears to be kept in lovely condition with no immediate signs of any peeling or bubbling
All brightwork looks to be well maintained with no corrosion, just some minor signs of age
All four wheels appear to be well maintained with excellent brightwork across all of the spokes and spinners
Hard top, tonneau cover and hood bag all remain in lovely shape with no reported damage
Original luggage rack present to the rear of the vehicle with just some gentle signs of patina
Interior upholstery all looks to be in stunning condition with no rips or tears to be seen, and all of the stitching looks to be in tact
Carpets are well presented in the a red colour to complement the upholstery
Three-spoke Moto-Lita steering wheel is as charming as ever with a gorgeous wooden outer rim
Dashboard gauges and switchgear all remains functional and pretty to look at

As far as MGC examples go, this one is charming every which way you look at it. From the gentle hints of light patina to the excellently cared for interior, it’s not difficult to tell that this example has been very well cherished and loved. The interior has been reupholstered at some point in its life, bringing a new lease of life to the lovely MG and turning heads wherever it goes. Even with its little imperfections, sometimes that is what makes something so perfect and lovable - signs of undeniable life.

The Mechanics

3.0-litre inline-six cylinder engine, reported to remain in wonderful health starting at the turn of a key, purring healthily at idle with no unwelcome noises or judders
Manual transmission also reported to remain in excellent condition, gliding easily through gears at the drivers instruction without rough or ragged engagements
Rear-wheel drive configuration providing an excellent driving experience with well balanced handling characteristics
Serviced and maintained with a classic car specialist during its current six-year ownership, the owner has spent in excess of £7,000 keeping the vehicle in great health
Carburettors have been rebuilt just 1,000 miles ago, allowing for excellent performance whenever required
Stainless steel exhaust system adds a nice grumble to the MGC’s exhaust note, an excellent addition to the driving experience
Suspension has been completely overhauled by the current owner, making the car feel tight and responsive as it should

Like any enthusiast owned vehicle, maintenance is at the top of the priority list, making sure that everything is just right with no scope for issues. Over the last six years of careful custodianship, the owner has taken a no-corners-cut approach to ensuring the MGC remains in tip top mechanical condition, and it seems that it’s been exceptionally worthwhile!

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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