Lot details Registration No: XRE 79G Chassis No: GCN13458 Mot Expiry: June 2012
Intended as a flagship sports car to replace the Austin-Healey 3000, the MGC was introduced in the autumn of 1967. Based around the two-door monocoque bodyshell of the humble B, the newcomer was powered by a 2912cc OHV straight-six engine allied to either a new heavy-duty, all-synchromesh, four-speed manual overdrive gearbox, or three-speed automatic transmission. Other mechanical differences included: a larger radiator, torsion-bar front suspension, telescopic dampers and lower geared rack and pinion steering. The C was visually distinguished from the B by its 'power bulge' bonnet and taller 15-inch wheels. While early road tests criticised the car's 'nose heavy' handling (the engine was 209 lbs heavier than the B's and the weight distribution was 53:47), later reports were kinder. With some 145bhp and 170lbft of torque, the model could complete the 0-60mph dash in around 10 seconds and hit 120mph flat out. Sadly, too readily confused with its smaller-engined brother, it was axed in 1969 after just 4,544 Roadsters and 4,458 GTs are understood to have been made. Now, 40 years later, the MGC's lack of period sales success only serves to make it more collectible.
This nicely presented right-hand drive Roadster vacated the Abingdon production line in April 1969 and is finished in traditional British Racing Green teamed with a Tan leatherette interior and equipped with the manual gearbox plus overdrive. It is believed to have been restored while in the care of a Mr Brett-Hamilton, who owned the car from 1984 until very recently, when it was cosmetically repainted and recommissioned by County Classics of Gloucester. It is now offered complete with chrome wire wheels, full tonneau cover, wood rim steering wheel and wood fascia. The vendor considers 'XRE 79G' to be in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork and to "run and drive very well indeed". It is MOT'd into June.
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