Classic Car Weekly (UK)

1972 MGB GT

- Matt Richardson

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

It’s no overstatem­ent to say this is probably one of the best riding and handling MGBs we’ve ever driven. With parabolic rear springs and hydraulic power steering recently fitted, the ride is far more supple than usual, with no jitters or judders. It glides over bumps, and the precise steering is lighter courtesy of power assistance, which is unobtrusiv­e with plenty of feel. The MGB’s handling is very secure and remains stable at speed. It accelerate­s hard and the engine is happy to rev. The four-speed gearbox is light to the touch, albeit a little tight going into fourth, while the overdrives works correctly on third and fourth. The brakes bring this ‘B to a halt effectivel­y without attempting to pull it to either side, and there are no signs of them binding or juddering.

BODYWORK CHECK

The car has been restored and has excellent Tartan Red paint, straight panels with even gaps and the car is rust free. There are some door edge chips and a light scratch on the tailgate, but is otherwise free of damage. Aftermarke­t high security locks have been fitted to the doors on both sides. The 14-inch Rostyle wheels are in fine fare, and are shod with new Pirelli P4 Cinturatos fitted. Much of the chrome, including the bumpers and the badges, look like they have been rechromed or replaced.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

It’s a cabin that’s clearly had a lot of attention lavished on it, with no signs of scuffs, marks or missing components. The front seats are in excellent condition with no wear, rips or tears, and have been retrimmed in dark grey half leather and fabric, while the back seat is finished in black vinyl. A new Mota-Lita leather steering wheel has been installed. There is new carpet in the car, and the dash top is in perfect condition.

UNDER THE BONNET

Lots of work has been done under the bonnet of this MG. New hydraulic power steering has been fitted, in addition a Revotec electric fan, a new clutch and new fuel tank has been installed. Smaller items look fresh as well, including the coil and fuel line. The engine bay has been painted so the motor must have been removed, and there are no leaks. The B-series engine itself runs well, with no signs of misfires, a healthy oil pressure and with lots of power through the rev range.

THE CCW VIEW

The quality of this MGB’s restoratio­n and the way that it drives makes it well worth a look. The previous owner has restored and upgraded this car and got everything just right, and there’s a photo record of the car’s painstakin­g restoratio­n. As well as the classic MGB look – enhanced by those Rostyle wheels – this car is just begging to be driven and enjoyed.

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