Lot details
Registration No: WNJ103S
Chassis No: GHN5454673G
Mot Expiry: March 2010

Replacement for the much-loved and still competitive MGA, the 1962 launched MGB took the concept a stage further by adding comfort and refinement to the good performance and handling characteristics that had made the MGA so popular. Of unitary construction unlike its predecessor, the MGB was powered by the 1798cc B-series engine producing 95bhp, giving sprightly performance of 0-60mph in around 11.5 seconds and a top speed of over 100mph. Early development saw the introduction of a more robust five-bearing engine in September 1964 and a larger 12-gallon fuel tank in March 1965. The MGB went on to be one of the most successful sports cars ever with an 18-year production run and was particularly popular in the US market. In 1975, to ensure compliance with ever-tightening safety regulations in the US, the MG was given large rubber-faced 5mph impact bumpers - and the suspension was raised by 1.5in to lift them to the required height. This particular example is understood to have had those changes 'undone' reverting to the more attractive early chrome-bumper looks (with properly finished rear valance) during an extensive bare-metal restoration which was completed some 9,000 dry miles ago. As well as its cosmetic reconfiguration, work is also said to have seen the MG benefit from the installation of "an 1840cc Oselli Stage 2 engine with Weber twin-choke carburettor and competition Aldon distributor" that reputedly develops "112bhp @ 6,000rpm at the rear wheels". Complementing these enhancements, the car reportedly rides on sports suspension (Spax adjustable dampers, stiffer anti-roll bars) and 5.5Jx14 Minilite-type wheels shod with Pirelli P2000 tyres, a set-up which according to the vendor "gives quite exceptional roadholding and control". Additionally, 'WNJ 103S' boasts such niceties as "a Moto-Lita steering wheel, Kenlowe electric fan, overdrive, mohair hood, full-length tonneua cover, leather seats and under-wing protectors". The seller judges this enticing, 'souped-up' Roadster to be "a lovely car which has no trouble keeping ahead of most modern traffic, and would make an ideal novice entrant for MGCC track days, sprints or hillclimbing. Alternatively, just use it as I have done, for pleasant, economic, reliable classic top-down summer motoring". A photographic record of the restoration comes with the car.