1979 MG B GT

Registration No: MGC 180V
Chassis No: GHD5496857G
MOT: Exempt

• Comprehensively restored in c.2009, including a new engine
• Specified new with overdrive and Rostyle wheels
• Purchased by the vendor in 2021, using it primarily for weekend outings and car shows
• Offered with a large history file including the BMIHT Heritage Certificate

Introduced in 1965, the MGB GT was a more comfortable and versatile proposition than its roadster sister. With a top speed of over 100mph courtesy of its 1798cc B-series engine and a capable chassis featuring independent front suspension, rack and pinion steering and front disc and rear drum brakes, the enclosed two-plus-two merited the old MG marketing slogan 'Safety Fast'.

According to the BMIHT certificate, this B GT was completed on 15th May, 1979, and despatched on 18th June, being supplied new through Rocar (Rotherham) Ltd. to C. & P. Bygraves Ltd. of SW4, in Brooklands Green with Orange and Brown trim, Rostyle wheels and factory overdrive. Since then, not a lot seems to have changed, except that the bulky rubber bumpers have been sacrificed in favour of a chrome bumper and grille conversion, bringing the car in line with the generally-preferred styling of the 1962-74 MGBs, and the interior has been upgraded to a luxurious combination of cream leather with a walnut dash.

Aside from the light cosmetic surgery, a great amount of care and attention has been lavished on the car in recent years. Its modern history begins in 2003, when it was acquired by a dealer as a restoration project and eventually sold in 2007 to an enthusiast who worked hard to put it back on the road. A major overhaul was effected which included fitting a replacement engine and new sills, repainting the body, replacing certain interior fittings, and thoroughly renovating the brakes, steering and suspension.

The work was completed in 2009 and the MG has been lightly used since. The vendor has owned it since 2021 and used it primarily for weekend outings and car shows. A very large collection of invoices reveals over £14,000 has been spent since 2007, with recent work including the fitment of parabolic rear springs in 2022 and some light rewiring. A new stainless-steel exhaust was lately created for the sake of quieter driving. The vendor says, “The bodywork is excellent and the interior is like new – all the fittings seem to have been replaced.”

In addition to the various invoices and the BMIHT certificate, the MG is also offered with the current V5, photographs of the overhaul, MOT certificates dating back to 2009, and previous ownership history.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Cheetham
paul.cheetham@handh.co.uk
07538 667452