Lot details Registration No: NWJ366R Chassis No: GD2D12A34G Mot Expiry: July 2009
Created by Mini racer turned car tuner Ken Costello, the first Rover V8-engined MGB appeared in 1970. Suitably impressed, the Abingdon manufacturer began work on an 'official' version the following year. Introduced in August 1973, the resultant MGB GT V8 looked disarmingly standard. Borrowing its four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox and rear-end transmission from the six-cylinder MGC (but doing without that model's 'power bulge' bonnet thanks to the use of a special low-rise exhaust manifold), it utilised the same monocoque bodyshell and suspension layout as the four-cylinder MGB (their respective powerplants being near identical in weight). Thus, although it necessitated a modified bulkhead, raised ride height, bespoke gear ratios and upgraded front disc brakes, the installation of the all-alloy 3528cc Rover V8 proved relatively straightforward. Credited with 137bhp and 193lbft of torque, the Buick-derived unit imbued the MGB with a hitherto unknown level of performance. Reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and 125mph, the MGB GT V8 was favourably received by the contemporary motoring press. Only in production for three years, a mere 2,591 are thought to have been made.
Finished in Sand Glow with brown cloth upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, chassis, paintwork, wheels / tyres), "very good" (bodywork) or "excellent" (interior trim) condition. Reportedly registered in Sheffield, 'NWJ 366R' is further understood to retain its "original service book (showing four stamps), radio and price list". As well as a freshly re-covered Webasto sunroof, recent work is said to have seen the coupe benefit from attention to its brakes (discs / pads, shoes / wheel cylinders) and suspension (new springs all-round, sundry bushes / trunions to the front). Riding on alloy wheels, this late MGB GT V8 is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until July 2009.
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