MGs are often the cars to strike up conversation as so many people had one at some point in their lives. The reason, likely, is that compared to the other British sports cars that were available, the MG usually came out as the most inexpensive. However, these cars had a lot to offer and still do to this day. What is arguably viewed as the most nostalgic of the MGs, is the MG B. These cars supplied the driver with loads of fun at a fraction of the price of a Jaguar or Austin Healey 3000. Introduced in 1962, the MGB served as the successor to the MGA, sporting a completely new monocoque design with more powerful 1.8L engine and better options. The MGB was a well-balanced two-seater that was affordable for the masses to enjoy and cherish. The most collectible of the MGBs span from their creation in 1962 up to 1967 as these are the examples are considered the purest forms of the nimble roadster. Especially the 1965-1967 as they are the only years to combine the early exterior looks with a metal dash and 5-main bearing 1800cc engine, couple this with overdrive and the right colors and you have exactly what MG intended.
On offer is a 1966 MGB Roadster, chassis number GHN3L96034, engine number 18GBUH48066, that showcases a nicely kept and highly original car that received a very sympathetic and hardly needed restoration, with regular maintenance since with receipts totaling over $16k included. There is no denying that this example was well cared for no matter what the cost. The car appears to have been a Pennsylvania resident since the early 80's but exact early ownership is unknown. The restoration commenced in 1997 was completed in a few steps as needed and ultimately finished in 2000. The interior was largely untouched beyond recovering the seats. Otherwise it was mainly exterior cosmetics that received attention and the engine bay freshened to very high standards of correctness and presentation. Soon after two more owners enjoyed the car with the most recent having only put 100 miles on the car during his 2-year ownership. According to the BMIHT Certificate, this example was completed between July 4-7 of 1966 and dispatched the 14th of that same month to a dealer in the United States. From the factory, is way equipped with white wall tires, wire wheels, heater, black tonneau cover, packaway hood, and ashtray.
Finished in its original color, the British racing green paint is excellent and challenging to critique. The paint still holds a wonderful shine and maintains a consistency throughout which can be attributed to the immense care that was taken during the restoration. This example has seen some necessary road use, having resulted in two very small chips in the paint on the left front fender, next to the bonnet seam. This blemish is minor and would only be noticed under a keen eye during a close inspection. The remainder of the exterior blemish free to the eye, the beautiful chrome free of any pitting, the glass clear/original, and the rubber seals appearing as new. The chrome wire wheels are in good shape, mounted on a fresh set of tires. The detachable black soft top has held up nicely but does show some signs of aging on the soft windows where they have incurred some scratches and scuffs here and there. Nothing that would be considered a major eye sore but worth noting. However, the original equipment and in remarkable condition all things considered.
As we move to the interior the quality of this car continues through as every surface and component has been cared for over the years. The door jams show as neat and orderly with no signs of significant corrosion at any point, original metal for certain. The MG chrome kickplates, mainly the driver's side, have developed some scuffs form use but the majority of flawing looks like it could be remedied with a good polish. The black leather seats are finished with white pipping and are in great shape, beginning to develop a welcome patina but free of any tears, punctures, or major flawing. The door panels, dash, and rugs have been very well kept, having encountered no mistreatment and are superb originals. In the interest of improved usability, the original steering wheel has been swapped out for a smaller Moto Lita wheel for precision as well as making entry and exit a bit less burdening. The gauge faces and lenses are in excellent shape and the internals have been fully rebuilt, reading accurately and operating as expected.
An inspection of the engine bay will conclude everything to be in order and condition right in line with an older restoration that has been cared for. No components show as being neglected in any way and it being evident that this example received regular servicing. However, it is to be noted the not all surfaces and finishes show as sparkling new but are all in accordance with on one expects in an older restoration. Relocating to the boot, one will find everything to be nice and tidy, the cloth liner having no stains, rips, or notable blemishes. A peak under the liner with reveal clean solid metal and no rust. The undercarriage of this car would be considered driver quality with all suspension and steering components, brake lines, fuel lines, etc. having been all been gone through. It is to be noted that a fair amount of the finishes have begun to fail and some light surface oxidation has begun to develop. Neither of these issues would require any immediate attention. It should be noted that unlike so many with thick undercoating this car is in effect showing exactly what it is made of, its structure, original metal, and ultimately honest in presentation even though not attractive. It does leave room for easy improvement however.
The mechanical systems of this car of been well sorted by very capable hands. The marque specialists at JD Auto Repairs of Chalfont, Pennsylvania are responsible for the mechanical serving of this car and have addressed the clutch, brakes, wiring, hoses, suspension, fuel system, and anything that was not up to par. Their attention to detail has left us with an MGB that runs and performs without fault. A pull of the choke and a few cranks will get the engine to fire almost instantly and once up to temperature, one can really enjoy what these little MGs are all about. The engine and exhaust provide the driver with an addicting sound track with the potent 1.8L power plant hitting its stride at the top of the rev range. All system operates as they should, the gear changes are smooth, the brakes do not pull, and the steering feels responsive and precise. This MGB is simply a blast and is perfect for some spirited driving down windy back roads.
For any enthusiast seeking out an example that would be worthy of any local show, concours, or rally that one can hop into on a sunny afternoon without worry and enjoy, this is it. Not only does this MGB's condition make it desirable but also the fact that this is a 5-bearing car with overdrive finished in its factory colors, significantly furthers its value. The restoration that was done left no area untouched and executed to exceed expectations. This nostalgic open two-seater will certainly not disappoint. Included in the sale are the jack, spare wheel, hammer, original steering wheel, spare parts, owner's handbook, service records, and British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certificate.
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