To the best of my knowledge: This 1974 MGB (2-seater, Tourer) is the last year of chrome bumper MGB's. It has the Leland 1798 cc, 5 main bearing, vertical, inline, MK3 engine and a full synchro, manual, 4-speed transmission (i.e, it runs great and shifts like a dream). The car was manufactured in September of 1973 (the 50th birthday of the car is September of 2023). The original color was the rare, grey color. The Tonneau Cover with Headrests and the Convertible Top Boot appear to be original to the car. Small patches are nicely sewn into the boot cover. Has a luggage rack and a Clarion 8430R AM/FM/Cassette Player.
It has a new battery (2023), Repairs in 2020 include new top with zip down rear window, new brake cylinder, new slave clutch cylinder, new rear brake lines, odometer cable, turn indicator switch, new clutch hose, and steering boot kit. In 2016 I had the twin SU carbs replaced by a Weber carb kit, fuel pump, front brake hoses, and four new tires. The tires have less than 1,000 miles on them, but they are more than 5 years old. The SU's and other parts, manuals, etc. go with the car.
I found the car in a barn behind the Thorsby home in Thorsby, Alabama in 2011. It had been in the barn for 10 years. I was told by the owner that she purchased it from the original owner, a doctor in Atlanta, GA. The second owner had it painted red. The odometer cable was broken when I bought the car so the actual mileage is unknown. There is a loose connection in the windshield wiper system. I think it is the switch or connection to the switch. I've not replaced it because I don't drive or park in the rain. It hasn't been in the rain since before 2001, if then. Windshield washer is not working.
The interior is in good condition. Its fun to drive. Handles great. Looks fantastic from 20 feet. Its mechanically simple, and easy to keep running. It does not require any special fuel, but I run ethanol-free, regular gasoline in it.
MOTOR NUMBER: 18V672ZL20821
Vertical in-line, exhaust emission control, anti run-on valve, Lucas 16ACR or 17ACR alternator, pre-engaged starter motor, center gear shift, low compression engine.
VIN: GHN5UE330445G
MG, Leland engine, 2-seater tourer, 5th Series MK3, USA left-hand drive, 1974 model year
Recently drove the car 25 miles to St. Augustine on A1A at 45-50 mph (smooth comfortable ride), then up US 1 at 65 mph (tires need balancing), and finally on I-95 at 70 mph (tires need balancing). The car performed beautifully except the tires need balancing. Temperature gauge never got up to the middle of the range. Had no problem restarting it while hot. The tires look new, but they are 7 years old. If I were going to drive at highway speeds, I'd get new, balanced tires. I'm comfortable driving it around town under 45 mph just as it is.
