MGB Roadster
ENGINE 1798cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 95bhp@5400rpm TORQUE 107lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 101mph 0-60MPH 11sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 22-28mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 76,428 miles WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
It starts without hesitation and remains at a healthy idle with no smells of fuel or burning oil. The car performs well and the engine hauls it down the road without grumbling or smoking. The tappets are a little noisy but this is quite normal on the B-series engine. The steering is direct and precise with no play in the wheel or wandering to either side. The brakes need some force but they do work well and stop the car in a straight line without diving, juddering or squealing. The suspension components and bushes are clearly in good condition and the car handles like a good MGB should, being bags of fun to drive. Gear selection at speed can be a little graunchy but this will be addressed and sorted prior to sale.
BODYWORK CHECK
The bodywork is superb, the Old English White paint in fine order, the chrome immaculate and the factory wire wheels free from pitting or discolouration. All four tyres are in top condition and show even wear. The car comes complete with full black tonneau cover and grey frame hood, both of which are exceptional with no marks or tears, and the rear PVC window is still factory fresh. There is no evident rust, either in the body or underneath.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
In a word, exceptional. The white piped black leather seats are in fantastic original condition and have not worn or sagged. The carpets look brand new, showing no wet spots or damp patches and the dashboard is intact with no cracks or splits. All gauges and instruments work exactly as they should with the exception of the rev counter, which appears to have a mind of its own and bounces up and down no matter what speed the engine is running at. Again, this will be fixed prior to the sale of the car. The large sprung steering wheel shows little sign of wear and all switchgear is present, correct and functioning perfectly.
UNDER THE BONNET
Much like the rest of the car, the engine bay is clean and corrosion-free. The engine block and valve cover retain a good coat of dark red paint and look good nestled behind a very tidylooking radiator. There are no leaks from the engine, gearbox or differential and factory options include a heater and oil cooler.
THE CCW VIEW
The problem you’re most likely to encounter with this particular ‘pull handle’ Roadster is keeping it in the condition in which it is currently. Gearbox and tachometer issues will be addressed prior to sale, so there should be no reason to put you off buying this excellent example of the perennial British sports car. Fun to drive - and in excellent fettle.
PROS Low mileage, low owner ‘pull-handle’ car CONS Some issues require attention before sale