MGB Roadster
ENGINE 1798cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 105bhp@5400rpm TORQUE 107lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 101mph 0-60MPH 11sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 22-28mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-spd man+o/d MoT October 2019 ODOMETER 44,061 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The car performs well and the engine sounds great with its full stainless exhaust system, four-branch manifold and Weber carburettor. It propels the car satisfyingly down the road with no grumbling and no alarming smoke from the exhaust. The steering is direct and precise, with no play or wandering. The brakes are similarly effective with no diving, juddering or unwanted noise. This MG also comes fitted with adjustable Spax dampers and the suspension appears to have been set up well.
BODYWORK CHECK
The car was rebuilt in 2004 with a Heritage body shell. It has obviously been meticulously maintained since, because the paint and body are in superb condition. The spotless mohair hood fits perfectly and has no rips or tears in it. All of the chrome is immaculate, including the wire wheels, which are free from pitting or discolouration. All four tyres appear to be wearing evenly and have plenty of tread remaining. The underneath is rust-free and has been fully undersealed.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior is immaculately well-presented, with some tasteful touches including a smart Moto-Lita wooden steering wheel and, rather unusually, electric windows. All of the leather has been retrimmed and is exceptional. The carpets look brand new with no damp patches and the dashboard is intact with no cracks, splits or sun damage. All the gauges and switchgear function perfectly, including the dash-mounted overdrive. The car is fitted with an uprated stereo and speakers and a working immobiliser.
UNDER THE BONNET
The car has had many mechanical improvements made to it, including an unleaded cylinder head, grooved brake discs and uprated pads, electronic ignition, a rebuilt and tuned distributor and parabolic rear springs. The car has also been rolling-road tuned, increasing power to around 105bhp. The engine bay looks clean and tidy with a polished chrome rocker cover, red painted block and new hoses. All other engine ancillaries look fresh. The area is free from any oil leaks or misting, and there’s not a spot of rust or standing water anywhere. A new radiator and oil cooler have also been fitted.
THE CCW VIEW
None of the usual issues that commonly afflict these cars seem to have befallen this particular ‘B Roadster; this car’s next owner will be buying a rust-free example that has been fastidiously maintained, serviced and documented, not to mention upgraded. All of the extra performance parts are further bonuses that elevate this classic British sports car somewhat above other, more typical versions.