MGB roadster

ENGINE 1798cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 95bhp@5400rpm TORQUE 110lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 103mph 0-60MPH 12.2sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 24-28mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual + o/d MoT November 2018 ODOMETER 99,734 miles

This MGB is a real back-road blaster with a strong B-series engine that pulls willingly and delivers good power throughout the rev range. The car accelerates well, although the suspension belies its basic heritage as it does become a bit bouncy and not all bumps are soaked up; however the ride is generally comfortable with good grip and control through the corners. The steering system is tight with no play in the mechanism. The brakes are effective and well-maintained, while the brake pedal has a nice short travel and removing speed doesn’t cause the ‘B to pull to either side. The throttle pedal has a heavy travel, while the clutch is surprisingly light. The gear shift has a nice mechanical feel and an easy H-gate to click through. Overdrive clicks in via a dashboard switch, making cruising more civilised.

BODYWORK CHECK

This MGB – one of the soughtafter ‘pull handle’ models from the first years of production – was fully restored in 1983 and tidied in 2012, and it remains in exceptional condition. The green paint has a smooth gloss with barely the smallest of stone chips anywhere. The just-fitted hood looks and works like new and folds behind the seats, so the line of the bodywork stays flat. All the chrome is superb and sets off the dark paint perfectly. The boot rack is a nice period touch and a useful touring accessory. The refurbished steel wheels look great with their chrome hubcaps, while nearly new Falken 165/80R14 tyres are fitted all-round.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

Overall the cabin is in superb condition. The carpets show no wear, the crackle-black dash is perfect with bright, clear dials, and the door cards are undamaged. The black leather seats are in good condition, although the driver’s seat shows some fading and crease lines from years of use. The steering wheel is in very good condition and the dash houses a MW/LW radio. No seatbelts are fitted.

UNDER THE BONNET

A later five-bearing engine has been fitted, documented in the car’s history file. The engine bay is as clean and well-presented as the rest of the car, and the only worn or flaking paint is on the top of the brass radiator. A new oil cooler sits ahead of it in the nose. The brake master cylinder appears new, as do many other parts such as brake lines and Champion spark plug leads. The inner wings and bulkhead are straight, free of corrosion or damage, with glossy paint.

THE CCW VIEW

Its last owner kept this MGB for 30 years and seems to have lavished it with the sort of care and affection that keeps a car looking and driving better than new. We reckon it would be hard to find a better ’B.