Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Chassis No: GVVDJ2AG515662
Mot Expiry: April 2011

Because the MGB was the best-selling MG of all time, and was in production for eighteen years (1962 - 1980), many changes, and improvements were made over the years. Today, the supply of spares and specialist advice is unsurpassed, so that many MGBs survive, many in excellent condition. Original-specification MGBs established a proven template: eventually, more than 500,000 were produced, of which nearly 388,000 were open Roadsters. A large majority, like this particular machine, were originally shipped to the USA. All MGBs had 1798cc B-Series engines, the original three-main-bearing crankshaft type being superseded by a five-bearing crankshaft from late 1964. Overdrive, found on the majority of cars, was standard from 1975, an all-synchromesh gearbox was fitted from 1967, and a modified body style, featuring large crash-absorbing polyurethane bumpers, was added from late 1974. Wheel styles changed persistently throughout this period, with centre-lock wire spoke wheels being optional for many years. Every MGB was manufactured with wind-up windows, and for many of the later years the USA-specification models had a unique style of instrument panel.

The basic history of the long-running MGB, therefore, is well-known to most enthusiasts, but the vendor claims this individual car to be a rare example of a popular model. Built at Abingdon in 1978, two years before MGB assembly finally closed, this white left-hand-drive car, complete with overdrive transmission, was originally registered in Florida, USA, in the mid-1980, as proved by the documents provided. Now with a reportedly genuine 12,000 miles on the clock, this car was recently purchased and re-imported to the UK, the intention (later rescinded) then being to take it to Tenerife where the vendor owns a property. Described as being in "pretty much as new" condition, this is an MGB which has benefitted from living in a warm and dry North American state throughout its pampered life. In addition to a C&E 386 Import Duties Paid form, this 'timewarp' roadster is offered for sale with a fresh MOT certificate and original sales catalogue. The seller considers that as a left-hooker the MG would be well suited to either seasonal touring duties or permanent residence on the Continent.