MGB

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• PRACTICAL AND VERSATILE • SUPER EASY TO OWN • BIG CHOICE

WHY BUY?

If you’re in the market for a common sense classic sportster, few others do it better than the evergreen MGB. Classy yet classless, sporting yet sensible, pretty yet practical, it’s hard to overlook both the MGB or the fastback GT. Club and specialist support is second to none.

DRIVING

An oldie (in terms of design) even when new, the MGB is neither fast or particularly fleet of foot, but makes up for in utter predictability and user-friendliness. Rubber bumper cars have their merits, such as a better ride.

WHAT TO PAY

Best bargains are the rubber bumper models where good sub £3000 buys are plentiful. Chrome bumper cans are in the region of £4000-£6000 with GTs normally cheaper. Top (or previously restored) cars easily bust £10,000 barrier from a dealer; Mk1s that command most interest and value.

GENERAL

Vet any V8 conversion well as build standards will vary; and don’t pay over the odds. Ditto rubber bumper car converted to chrome; some specialists shy away from these.

BODY AND CHASSIS

They rust everywhere. New shells available from BMH but cost £8250-£9800. Sills, floors, bulkheads, jacking points, suspension pick up points and inner wings are main woes. If sills have been fitted wrongly the doors may not fit well.

ENGINE

Trusty and tolerant engines, watch for smoking and 50lb oil pressure. A deep rumbling suggests crankshaft wear while tappets is usually worn rockers and camshaft.

RUNNING GEAR

Worn king pins and trunnions are common. Rubber bumper models wear their suspensions out quicker apparently. Has the ride height been lowered back to ‘normal’ already?

BEST MODEL? Chrome Roadster
WORST MODEL? Rubber bumper models
BUDGET BUY? MKIII GTs
OK FOR UNLEADED? Needs an additive
SPARES SITUATION? Unbeatable
DIY EASE? Excellent
CLUB SUPPORT? Second to none
APPRECIATING ASSET? Too many for gains