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Winning bid
£8,701

1978 MG B Roadster

Highlights

  • Genuine low mileage of just 18375 miles 
  • Historically significant MG B - BL research and development test car number six.
  • Unrestored but remarkably well-maintained.
  • Rust-free body with original Brooklands green paint in places.
  • Recent mechanical commissioning including new fuel lines, water pump, brake calipers and pads.
  • Comes with an unusual soft rim steering wheel - a prototype that was never put into production on any other MG.

The Appeal 

The MG B has its own special place in the automotive history, representing a bygone era of British craftsmanship and engineering. From its iconic Brooklands green paint to its classic lines and curves, every aspect of this MG B radiates charm of the '70s. But what truly sets this 1978 model apart is its historic significance - it is the sixth test car from the British Leyland research and development team for the US market. With its unique soft rim steering wheel, impeccably preserved bodywork, and recent mechanical commissioning, this unrestored MG B retains a genuine 'factory-fresh' feel that any collector or enthusiast would love.
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The History and Paperwork

  • MG B left the factory as a test unit for British Leyland's research and development department.
  • Documentation includes original factory build card, Leyland service passport, heritage certificate, and thorough maintenance ledger from the R&D team at MG at Gaydon and also it has spent time at MIRA, Champion spark plugs, Lucas and Pirelli tyres during its time as a test car
  • Previous owners include the BL company secretary who held it in his collection for over 40 years.
  • Majority of its service history detailed in the factory ledger - missing entries made up by maintenance from previous owner.
  • Located on the Isle of Wight.

The Interior

  • Dash, gauges, and original clock in perfect condition, all functional.
  • New door cards recently installed.
  • Original carpet in excellent condition, but driver side footwell carpet replaced.
  • Convertible top recently replaced - original and excellently preserved top cover included.

The Exterior

  • Absolutely rust-free body - no welding ever needed.
  • Majority of the Brooklands green paint original, some localised paintwork done to address stone chip marks.
  • Light surface rust on the springs, brackets and underside components - expected for an unrestored car of this age.

The Mechanics

  • Fully recommissioned for the road with new fuel lines, fuel pump, front brake calipers and pads.
  • All fluids replaced, including fresh oil and filter.
  • Rebuilt early type SU's replace the original Stromberg carb and US emissions equipment - both are boxed up and included with the car.
  • Runs and drives perfectly with excellent oil pressure and everything working as it should.

Summary

This isn't just an ordinary 1978 MG B. It's a beautifully preserved piece of automotive history, from its role as a research and development test car to the unique soft-rim steering wheel that never made it to mass production. With its good mechanical condition, rust-free body, and fascinating background, this is a wonderful opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors alike to own a slice of British Leyland's legacy.

The vendor would be willing to take the car to Southampton, Portsmouth or Lymington once the car is purchased and paid for.

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.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Winning bid
£8,701
Sold
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Auction Details

  • Year1978
  • MakeMG
  • ModelMGB
  • ColourGreen
  • Odometer18,375 Miles
  • Engine size1798cc
  • TransmissionManual
  • Steering positionLeft Hand Drive
  • Fuel typePetrol
  • Seller TypePrivate
  • TownVentnor
  • CountyIsle of Wight
  • CountryUnited Kingdom
  • Auction ends

Bidding history

27 Bids

john-ri••••
Bid
£8,701
26/10/23
Stanela
Bid
£8,601
26/10/23
john-ri••••
Bid
£8,501
26/10/23
Stanela
Bid
£8,401
26/10/23
john-ri••••
Bid
£8,301
26/10/23
Stanela
Bid
£8,201
26/10/23
john-ri••••
Bid
£8,101
26/10/23
Stanela
Bid
£8,001
26/10/23
john-ri••••
Bid
£7,950
26/10/23
john-ri••••
Bid
£7,850
26/10/23

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