Highlights
- Genuine factory V8 variant
- Well preserved older restoration
- Wonderfully presented, honest example
- Backed by a wealth of history
- One of the last chrome bumper cars built
The Appeal
Arguably the go to brand for quality sports cars, MG were always leading the pack when it came to stylish, dynamic automobiles, and none so more than the MGB GT. The perfect recipe of performance style and value meant the lightweight 2 door Pininfarina styled coupe was an absolute hit, standing as one of the most recognisable classic cars of all time.
It was in 1973 that the GT was treated to a hefty performance upgrade in the form of a factory fitted Rover V8. Paired with the model's existing dynamic prowess, the GT was transformed and the V8 model holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts to this day.
Hailing from the fina year of chrome bumper production, VLC 123M is one of just a handful of factory built V8 GTs, making it a very desirable car indeed. Standing today in beautiful, well preserved form, this older restoration is surely one of the finer examples out there on British roads today.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 07/05/1974
- Despatched to Kennings Car Mart of Ealing in late March
- Backed by a vast history file, dating back into the car’s very early life
- Comes with a British Motor Heritage certificate, highlighting various original build details about the car
- Accompanied by an extensive set of invoices for maintenance work dating from the 1970s through to present day
- Older restoration, thoroughly overhauled in late 1995
- Tax, MOT and ULEZ exempt due to the vehicles age and historic status
- Despite MOT exemption, the vendor advises that a fresh MOT will be put on the car prior to sale
- V5 registration document present with the vehicle
The Condition
- Marvellously well presented example, a truly striking car
- Finished in a wonderful deep red hue, with complimenting black upholstery
- High quality chrome trim used throughout, showing very little, if anything in the way of blemishing or pitting
- Paintwork is of a great standard, notably lacking in flawing, patina or age related marking
- Fitted with red pull back ragtop roof with fold out wind deflector
- External trim, badging, glass work and lighting are all in great order and match the high quality the rest of the car sits in
- MG V8 alloy wheels reside at all four corners, presenting in good clean order
- Upholstery is in excellent form throughout, still clean and rich in colour, telling the story of careful, limited use
- Charming wood finish trim used within the cabin, all in good clean shape presenting with a high gloss shine
- Interior trim, fascias and switchgear are of a similarly high standard, with the vendor reporting everything to be in good working form to their knowledge Carpets and headlining in good order
- Full size spare wheel and tool set stowed under the boot floor, with aftermarket gas struts fitted to the hinged panel for ease of access
The Mechanics
- Factory fitted with a 3.5 litre V8 engine
- This particular engine looks to be in good clean order and has only covered limited miles in recent years according to the owner
- Paired to a quality manual transmission, which was rebuilt less than 2000 miles ago
- The car fires into life quickly and comfortably, with a wonderful V8 engine note
- The vendor reports of a wonderful driving experience from the car, with many fond memories of summer drives in the car to shows and club events
- Vendor also advises that the car was subject to a service, “regrease” and fitment of a new accuspark ignition system in May of 2024
- A new MOT has been obtained
- The vendor states that as the car has been little used in recent months it may require some re-commissioning
Summary
The MGB GT has always been a popular car, there’s no question about that. The marque did everything right when developing the model and as such they come very highly regarded in the present day enthusiast circles. Whilst any B GT is a solid choice of classic metal, this late chrome bumper factory V8 number is something truly special, firmly ticking the rarity and desirability boxes on the classic car checklist, with less than 3000 examples having been built back in the day.
With good examples being snapped up in an instant, cars like the one we have here present a rare and exciting opportunity for those looking to break into the market or add to a pre existing collection with a striking, honest, ready to use example of a thoroughbred V8 classic British sports car.
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:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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