Lot details
Registration No: LRK653D
Chassis No: GHN3/89708
Mot Expiry: July 2010

The first series of any car is often the version deemed the most pure, and that goes for the MG B as much as for any other model. Abingdon's first monocoque was good straight out the box. A MG B roadster on wires is one of the world's most iconic sportscar designs, and with 386,961 roadsters built, still an accessible, easy-to-run and identifiable practical classic. What makes the later version of a series one better to own is the development put into the model early on during its production history. After the 1962 launch, the original 3-bearing motor was identified as a potential weakness, and so during the 1965-1967 period many improvements were made to the mechanical specification. Five-bearing motors were introduced, the gearbox received synchromesh on all the gears, and a Salisbury type rear axle replaced the earlier, weaker and noisier banjo type. An alternator replaced the dynamo to provide charging, and by the time all these changes had arrived on production cars, Abingdon began to call the car a MKII.
The result of a previous restoration and upgrade, this roadster features leather seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, walnut dashboard and door-cappings, chrome wire wheels and a stainless boot rack. We are further informed that an unleaded-compatible cylinder head is fitted since when the car has covered circa 200 miles. Upgrades can be oft-argued by purists, but for this MG B, the additions create an ambience that has the effect of making the car more classic and desirable. It has been cherished inside a heated garage for the past three years. Correct, early style rear lamps are retained, and the car features the desirable overdrive option. Isis Blue was a rare colour for an early MG B, yet coupled with a black hood, now looks like a decidedly appealing period hue, and as such, this B would be a welcome addition to any show, rally or tour organised by either the MG Car Club or MG Owners Club. The MOT is valid until July 2010.