Highlights

Desirable early ‘pull handle’ Roadster with steel wheels
1999 £12,000 restoration and sparing use since
Usefully MOT’d annually to verify condition and mileage
MOT to April 2024 with no advisories
Great opportunity to acquire a very usable early B
Very rare optional overdrive model

The Appeal

The MGB has become so synonymous with the classic scene that it is perhaps difficult to imagine that when it first arrived it was a step change for the firm. MG’s first monocoque and designed to be as streamlined and aerodynamic as possible, the new B was thoroughly modern.

Although the long lived B remained little changed during its life, the early cars are particularly revered by enthusiasts because they are considered the ‘purest’. Known as ‘pull handle’ cars they feature telling little details that later cars lost.

Before their value was recognised, many of these early cars suffered poor restorations that sacrificed those early features. Which makes finding a highly original, sympathetically renovated example like this one particularly exciting.

Comprehensively refurbished in 1999 at a cost then of £12,000 this beautiful 1964 car retains its original features and presents in very usable condition. Unusual amongst early cars it is fitted with desirable overdrive. It is solid with a long MOT and could be used ‘as is’ or, reflecting its important status, gradually improved to no doubt show-winning standard.

The History and Paperwork

First registered 15th May 1964
Chassis records confirm that this car was built in early 1964
GHN3 prefix confirms that this is a ‘Mk1’ MGB
Early cars shared many components with the earlier MGA, including the door locks
These cars are most obviously differentiated by the ‘pull handle’ door handles that provide their name and the three bearing engine rather than the later five bearing unit
Acquired by the previous owner in 1998 from an elderly lady who inherited it from her husband who cherished it as his pride and joy
Comprehensively restored in 1999 at a cost of £12,000 including paintwork, bodywork and retrimming
The work including replacing the original three bearing engine with a reconditioned three bearing unit
The gearbox and rear axle were also replaced during the work
Photographic record of the work included in the car’s history
All late 90s restoration work carried out by renowned specialist MG Unlimited of Plymouth
1 key
MOT to 11th April 2024 at 23,934 miles with no advisories
Sparing but regular use over the last 10 years averaging 1,000 miles per year
Usefully annually MOT’d with good run of test passes
Just serviced by the seller

Thick history file includes:

New shock absorbers in 2001
New springs and wiring loom in 2015
Fitment of electronic ignition in 2015 and carburettors balanced at the same time

The Interior

Delightfully original early MGB interior that has been retrimmed and reflects the quality and attention to detail of the restorer
New leather seats using what appear to be the original and correct early frames
Black leather piped red is lightly patinated with slight creases and wear but very presentable
New carpets and trim fitted during the restoration and remains in well kept condition
Rubber overmats
Early gear lever and gaiter design with only slightly wear to the rubber surround
Some wear visible on the handbrake handle
Beautiful early three wire-spoked black Bakelite steering wheel in good condition
Radio blanking plate
Crackle black dashboard with only very minor wear on the bottom edge in the centre
Smart chrome-rimmed Smiths dials with clear lenses and no visible damage
Tools and jack in the boot
Full size spare with carpeted cover

The Exterior

Smart red paintwork resprayed in 1999 using quality 2K ICI paint
The restoration work and paint has held up very well, showing only very minor deterioration such as front stone chips and the odd mark here and there
The bodywork in particular the vulnerable sills and arches appear well kept with no visible corrosion
Chromework is in good condition reflecting an older restoration with some minor areas of pitting lightly visible
Small dent in the chrome grille
Attractive additional driving lights added
Sits smartly on factory 14in steel wheels with polished chrome hub caps, all in good condition
Black vinyl roof new in 1999 and in good condition with clear panels and tonneau cover provided
There appears to be an area of microblistering on the boot lid that could be the light or may warrant investigation
Driver’s door would benefit from being re-aligned
The structure appears very solid including the boot floor, cabin floors and underside
There were no structural advisories on the last MOT

The Mechanics

Rare overdrive model - unusual to find on these early cars and particularly desirable
Reconditioned three bearing engine fitted during the restoration but of unknown provenance
The decision to fit a three bearing engine rather than the later five bearing model clearly reflects the attention to detail of the restoration work
Stage 2 unleaded head fitted during the restoration work
Reconditioned gearbox fitted during the restoration as well as rear axle
Water pump recently replaced
Has just been serviced
New timing belt and camshaft fitted with few miles covered since

Summary

The MGB has endured because it is so usable and with excellent parts supply and enthusiast owners, running one is a joy too. Early cars are particularly revered by enthusiasts and rare to find with their complete set of distinctive features.

This ‘pull handle’ B appears to retain those characteristics thanks to a faithful restoration in the late 90s. Carefully used since it presents a fantastic opportunity for an enthusiast to acquire one of these rare and desirable cars - complete with overdrive - with scope to gently improve as needed.

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.*

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.

All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.

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.