Lot details Registration No: NPC278W Chassis No: CVADJIH6519207 Mot Expiry: Oct2007
By its eighteenth year of production, the MGB had exceeded all its parent company's expectations. The most successful British sportscar in history, its blend of practicality and character had seen off countless rivals but was seemingly powerless against the contemporary British Leyland Management. Starved of investment, the B's basic monocoque, independent coil-sprung front suspension, leaf-sprung rear axle, disc /drum brakes and rack and pinion steering were still recognisable from its 1962 launch. While in many ways this was no bad thing, after all the B was still quick (100mph plus top speed), economical (28mpg) and fun to drive, it did little to attract those looking for the next 'must have motor'. Thus, on September 10th 1979 BL gave notice of their intention to close the Abingdon MG factory the following year. By way of compensation / commemoration, the decision was taken to build (for the UK market) 1,000 Limited Edition cars. Divided between Roadsters (420) and GTs (580), these 'LE's have retained a special place in MG circles ever since. Distinguished by their unique front spoiler, deep metallic paintwork (bronze on the Roadster, pewter on the GT) and coachline graphics, they were mechanically standard.
Finished in metallic bronze with orange / black upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "OK" (electrical equipment, wheels / tyres), "as seen" (bodywork, paintwork), "good" (four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox, interior trim) or "very good" (1798cc engine) condition. Though, he considers that the chassis has had "no welding". First registered in Surrey (or so its number plate would imply), 'NPC 278W' is said to have covered just 51,200 miles from new. Riding on wire wheels, the MG is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until October 2007.
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