MGB Roadster
ENGINE 1798cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 84bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 105lb ft@2500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 104mph 0-60MPH 14sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 23-27mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed man + o/d MoT 12 months ODOMETER 99,725 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The engine starts willingly and idles smoothly. Power is smooth and plentiful and the oil pressure settles around 60psi. The only irritations are the stainless exhaust, which has a slightly unpleasant resonance and a tendency for the engine to run on briefly when hot. The aftermarket electric power steering fitted in 2011 (at a cost of £750) gently improves manoeuvrability without excessive interference. Gear changes are very smooth and satisfying, the electric overdrive engages instantly and silently and there are no wobbles or rattles from the suspension or steering. The factory-fitted servo-assisted brakes work well.
BODYWORK CHECK
The body was restored in 1991, with one new wing and new doors. We could find no evidence of more recent paint in the huge history file, so it has survived remarkably well. The only blemishes are very discreet stonechips on the bonnet, one small area of bubbling paint on the offside rear wheelarch and surface rust at the front end of the sills, although they – along with the floorpans and wheel arches – look solid. The hood is smart and intact, with just one small split discernible in one section of Perspex, and the chrome is all clean and bright. The refurbished wire wheels are in perfect condition and fitted with matching, fully-treaded 165/85 Falken tyres.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Recently-fitted red-piped leather seats, plus matching steering wheel trim and a leather arm rest give a tidy and well-kept appearance inside. Kenwood speakers are installed in the doors, together with a modern stereo that incorporates what seems to be a screen for a reversing camera (not fitted). There’s no major wear anywhere and the carpets show no signs of damp creeping in. All the equipment (hot air blower, central map light, etc.) seems to work and the dash and switchgear are undamaged, apart from minor creasing at the edges of the dash top.
UNDER THE BONNET
The car comes with an extensive service history file, which contains receipts for spares from the MG Owners’ Club. The Revotec electric fan is a recent addition, as are the K&N air filters, ignition components, clean in-line fuel filter and numerous clips and fittings. A new heat deflector was fitted under the carbs in 2015. There’s no emulsion on the underside of the oil filler cap and all the fluid levels are good.
THE CCW VIEW
Both gentle and sporty driving are a pleasure, thanks to the mechanical attention this car has received. If usability and driving enjoyment are more important to you than chromebumper prettiness, then this tidy MG deserves a closer inspection.