1976 MGB ROADSTER
ENGINE 1798cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 94bhp@5400rpm TORQUE 107lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 101mph 0-60MPH 11sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 22-28mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed man + o/d MoT October 2022 ODOMETER 51,711 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The engine fires straight to life from cold with a touch of choke and quickly comes up to temperature, settling to a nice, steady idle and it sounds fantastic to boot. The car is mechanically sorted and the engine performs well, pulling strongly in every gear with no flat spots. Oil pressure sits at 60psi at idle with the water temperature gauge registering just below the mid-point. It tracks straight and the gearbox is smooth but precise and overdrive functions exactly as it should. The only fault we could find when driving was a squeaky offside front brake but new pads will be fitted prior to sale.
BODYWORK CHECK
This MG was subjected to a full restoration in 2008 and the bodywork still looks incredible. There is a good deep shine to the paint and only minimal hazing. This particular car has been converted from rubber to chrome bumpers and they and the overriders are in excellent condition, as is the rest of the chrome and trim. There is some slight discolouration to the sills but no rust and the door jambs are in perfect shape. The Minilite wheels are spotless and the Nexxen SB-650 radial tyres in great shape with plenty of tread left on them.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior was included in the restoration process and the seats upgraded to full leather. They look great and are firm yet comfortable. The rest of the trim is in great condition and the hood is undamaged and fits well. Overdrive works but the top of the gear knob popped off a couple of times while we were grabbing third gear on the downshift. A quick inspection under the driver’s carpet uncovered a small damp patch and some surface rust but nothing too drastic. The car is fitted with an aftermarket stereo and door speakers.
UNDER THE BONNET
The car has brand new front brake calipers and master cylinder as well as new front springs and the rest of the visible suspension components look good. The differential and gearbox are free from leaks and do not make any untoward noises. The engine itself looks great with a polished rocker cover and inlet manifold and the engine bay is clean and tidy with only a slight weeping of oil from the cork rocker cover gasket. The car has also been fitted with a new clutch and thrust bearing.
THE CCW VIEW
This clean and tidy roadster drives as good as it looks. With some fresh parts and choice upgrades it has been elevated above its standard ‘B brethren and would make an excellent usable classic for any MG fan. It’s in fantastic condition throughout but not a concours show pony so it can be driven and enjoyed as it is – just how it should be. Dale Vinten