Lot details Registration No: PRE717W Chassis No: GVGEJ1AG522501 Mot Expiry: Nov 2007
Some twenty-six years after it ceased production, the MGB remains as popular as ever. One of Britain's best-loved sportscars and an undoubted cornerstone of the indigenous classic car movement, the model's seemingly evergreen appeal must be due in some part to its handsome styling, spirited performance and balanced handling. Equipped with coil and wishbone independent front suspension, a 'live' rear axle, disc / drum brakes and rack and pinion steering, it was powered (in both 'Roadster' and 'GT' guises) by a 1798cc four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed manual gearbox. Unable to fund a replacement for the B, parent company British Leyland gave notice on September 10th 1979 that it would be closing MG's Abingdon factory the following year. By way of compensation / commemoration, the decision was taken to build 1,000 Limited Edition cars for the UK market. 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 Pewter Grey Metallic with black leather upholstery, this particular Limited Edition B GT is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its 1798cc engine, four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Reportedly treated to a bodywork restoration during 1996, 'PRE 717W' rides on correct-type LE alloy wheels. Further benefiting from a Panasonic stereo, stainless steel exhaust system and immobiliser, the coupe is understood to have been recently serviced. Consequently said to "run and drive very well", it is believed to have covered 118,210 miles from new. Practical yet stylish, this rare MG is offered for sale with factory handbook, history file (assorted old MOTs, various receipts / invoices dating back to 1998) and current MOT certificate valid until November 2007.
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