Lot details
Registration No: ELF698J
Chassis No: GLD170359
Mot Expiry: June 2006

New in 1967, the long disbanded British Motor Corporation's MGC was conceived as a successor for the Austin-Healey 3000, the Big Healey beginning to cost too much to make and show its age in terms of generating showroom traffic. Employing the same shell as the 1.8-litre powered MGB, but with 3-litre engine, which resulted in an increased top speed of 118mph, this Big Brother B only cost £154 more. Considering the spec and performance offered, it is surprising that only 8999 MGCs were made before the model run ended in 1969.
According to the entrant, this 1970 Abingdon-made MGC, a right-hand drive sports, was in receipt of a full nut and bolt restoration around five years ago. Currently, the shell, the panels and the green paintwork are said to be in excellent condition. Both the rugged 2912cc six-cylinder motor, fitted with triple Weber carburettors, and the four-speed manual gearbox with the extra-gear overdrive are reportedly in excellent order. The interior, trimmed in cream leather piped in green with black carpets, is also claimed to be in excellent condition and the original steering wheel is still fitted.
The 33,000 mileage displayed when entered for this auction is believed by the vendor to be the genuine total for the sportscar from new. He also tells us that a full twelve months MOT is likely to be in place by sale day.
What is in effect a 3-litre MGB really is a great, long-legged driver, the model being one of the most underrated of all the BMC/BL sportscars from the 1950s, 60s and 70s.