MGCS may be past their peak but they’re not in freefall

MGCS are worth investigating – prices have eased slightly but not collapsed. With only 8999 built over the 1967-1969 run and just 1500 survivors registered with the DVLA, they’re becoming a rare sight. Like the factory MGB V8s, MGCS have a halo of rare exclusivity that’s been propping up prices, coupled to the fact that they’re famously simple to mend and own and unlikely to generate heart-attack bills.

In May Historics sold a smart black ’68 roadster, restored in the Nineties with a huge supporting history file and 85k miles for a solid £18,420. In June H&H sold both a GT and a roadster, and prices on the day showed that the soft-top is the MGC the market wants. The roadster made a healthy £20,812, while the GT was a good buy at £13,500.

But there might be some weakening in MGCS too because Charterhouse in June sold a fresh-looking blue ’69 roadster just out of 12 year ownership with comprehensive history and recent engine rebuild for a very reasonable £16,500. Bowron Classic Cars in Herts has a rare ’68 MGC GT automatic in white with red leather, restored in 2017 with history file for £15,000 – but remember self-shifters aren’t as desirable as manuals. There are lots of MGCS being advertised for £25k-plus but I think the benchmark prices in the current market are £17k-£20k for mint or restored roadsters and £14k-£16k for nice GTS. Time will tell if they’ll hold steady but in the last six months no MGC has been an auction ‘no sale’ – which in these troubled times is an encouraging sign.

VALUE 2012 £13500 VALUE NOW £19000