Lot : 07

Replacement for the much loved and still competitive MGA, the 1962 launched MGB took the concept a stage further by adding a degree of comfort and refinement to the good performance and handling characteristics which had made the MGA so popular. Of unitary construction unlike its predecessor, the MGB was powered by the 1798cc B-Series unit producing 95 bhp giving very spritely performance of 0-60 in around 11.5 seconds and a top speed of over 100mph. Also featuring front disc brakes and luxuries such as wind-up windows (although a heater was still listed as an optional extra at £6), the MGB now came close to matching the comfort offered by its major market competitor the Sunbeam Alpine, whilst offering much stronger performance and better handling characteristics. Early development saw the introduction of a much more robust 5-bearing engine in September 1964 and a larger 12 gallon fuel tank in March 1965. The MGB was to go on to be one of the most successful sports cars ever with an 18 year production run and was particularly popular in the US market.
The 1967 example for sale here today was re-imported from California in 2004 since when it has undergone a major restoration. We are told that work carried out includes: 'body and bareshell respray, mainly new interior (black vinyl), conversion to RHD (steering rack & dashboard), engine overhaul with special gas flowed unleaded head, refurbished gearbox (3 syncro) with overdrive, new wiring loom, new tyres, (wire)wheels blasted and powder coated, new tyres'. At the same time the original green paintwork was changed to Tartan Red and the car has been restored to standard specification 'with the addition of an oil-cooler and detailed engine bay'. The 19,262 miles shown on the odometer is not warranted as being correct. Described as 'excellent' with regard to engine, electrics, paintwork and transmission with 'good' bodywork, interior trim, chassis and 'good/new' wheels/tyres, this car will be ready to drive away with an MOT until August 2007 and tax until December 2007.