1973 MG B Roadster

23 Bids
7:30 PM, 23 Jun 2021Vehicle sold
Sold for

£18,250

Background

Location: Abingdon, Year: 1958, Codename: MG EX205 - this is when the development of the MGB Roadster started. It has a unitary structure as opposed to the traditional body on frame construction used on the MGA and the MG T-type. It wasn't until 4 years later in 1962 that the British Motor Corporation BMC started to market the MGB and finally offered it to purchase in 1963.

The Engine used in the MGB was the BMC B-series engine, which was the previous MGA’s 1600cc engine that had been taken out to 1800cc. Originally, the early cars had a three main bearing crankshaft which was changed to five bearing in 1974. Fueled by twin SU carburettors the power output of both the three and five bearing engines was 95bhp at 5,400 rpm, with the torque at 110 ft-lb torque. This gave the MGB a 0-60 mph of just over 11 seconds.

Early cars up until 1968 used a four-speed manual gearbox with a straight-cut first gear, no synchromesh and optional overdrive. From 1968 onwards, the gearbox used was that of the unit designed to handle the three-litre power from the MGC and therefore was over engineered when coupled to the MGB B-series engine.

Production for the Roadster continued up until 1980, with the main change in the latter part of 1974 when the introduction of rubber bumpers came into force to meet impact regulations. Luckily, the one we have here is a 1973 and so retains the more classic look of the chrome bumpers.

  • GHN5310284G
  • 15304
  • 1800
  • Manual
  • Teal Blue
  • Black Leather
  • Right-hand drive

Vehicle location
Abingdon, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom

Background

Location: Abingdon, Year: 1958, Codename: MG EX205 - this is when the development of the MGB Roadster started. It has a unitary structure as opposed to the traditional body on frame construction used on the MGA and the MG T-type. It wasn't until 4 years later in 1962 that the British Motor Corporation BMC started to market the MGB and finally offered it to purchase in 1963.

The Engine used in the MGB was the BMC B-series engine, which was the previous MGA’s 1600cc engine that had been taken out to 1800cc. Originally, the early cars had a three main bearing crankshaft which was changed to five bearing in 1974. Fueled by twin SU carburettors the power output of both the three and five bearing engines was 95bhp at 5,400 rpm, with the torque at 110 ft-lb torque. This gave the MGB a 0-60 mph of just over 11 seconds.

Early cars up until 1968 used a four-speed manual gearbox with a straight-cut first gear, no synchromesh and optional overdrive. From 1968 onwards, the gearbox used was that of the unit designed to handle the three-litre power from the MGC and therefore was over engineered when coupled to the MGB B-series engine.

Production for the Roadster continued up until 1980, with the main change in the latter part of 1974 when the introduction of rubber bumpers came into force to meet impact regulations. Luckily, the one we have here is a 1973 and so retains the more classic look of the chrome bumpers.

Video

Overview

The MGB Roadster is certainly a British icon throughout the world of classic cars, and this one certainly doesn't disappoint!

This beautiful 1973 MGB Roadster was restored in 2008. The car was sourced through Moto Build but was restored by Chris Redfearn, a skilled Restorer and the son of the owner who at the time wanted to build an as good as possible MGB Roadster for his mum to use, and we all know that if you’re doing something for your mum, it has to be done right. What started off as an already good solid car made way for the tremendous one we have on offer here. The MGB was stripped right back and rebuilt from the wheels up, with a no expense spared build. From the walnut dashboard to the chrome luggage rack, the attention to detail is everywhere, nothing looks to have been left untouched or missed out.

Exterior

Finished in the stunning Teal Blue, the MGB is in excellent condition throughout, just as you would expect after a complete restoration, let alone one that was done over 12 years ago. It still looks just as fresh as it did then, but then again it has only covered just over 3,000 miles since 2007.

Starting at the front of the Roadster, the chromework is all in excellent condition with no pitting or damage and looks fantastic against the Teal Blue paint. The indicators and headlights are free from any chips. The bonnet lines up and shuts well against the chrome wire mesh grille, moving up against the wing rails it is equal to both sides. Further up is the windscreen surround and this is finished nice and bright.

Around to the sides of the car you can see just how nice the shape of the MGB is, this is as straight as a die! The chrome trim that runs down the center of the car is in excellent condition. The door gaps are millimeter perfect on both sides of the car. Just like the trim, the mirrors, door handles and window trim have no signs of pitting.

At the time of the restoration, the MG had a new Mohair roof fitted, which fits nice and tight, with no real scratches to the rear window. There is also a full size tonneau cover that comes with the car, which can be put just over the passenger side should you get caught in a shower.

Following the quarters down and around to the tailgate, the lights are free from any cracks. The bumper is again like the rest of the chrome. Sitting on the tailgate are the MG and MGB badge, which look to be the originals. Just above that for some extra cool points is the chrome luggage rack.

The wheels have been replaced in favour of some Minilite style alloy wheels and these have been covered in 4 tyres which are matching and in as new condition. The car has received a full machine polish in our detailing bay and looks simply stunning.

Interior

Inside the Roadster the seats have been replaced with some black leather trimmed items and these also match the door cards. Directly in front of you is the leather period looking Moto-lita steering wheel (more of a thick grip compared to the original, which is in the boot as a spare). The dash has been finished in a period looking burr Walnut trim, which is free from any cracks. The Smiths instruments are in a nice condition, with the faces and bezels scratch free and bright and the odometer is showing 15,307. Moving over to the left, the switches and heater controls are all ledgebale with no writing missing from the switches. Lower down is a Philips radio, and the wooden gear knob and leather gear gaiter which have no signs of wear. The wood trim on the panel around the gear lever has started to lift slightly on one corner.

The carpet is in a tidy condition with no real signs of wear. Just behind the passenger seat is a battery isolator to cut the power supply in an emergency or for long periods of storage. Also behind the seats is the wind deflector for those sunny days out in the countryside with the roof down. Into the boot area and this is carpeted to match the front, with the fifth spare minilite wheel sitting just to the left, which also has a matching tyre to the rest of the car. Here you can also see the back of the boot where the body has received paint inside and out, another sign of a good job.

Mechanical

The engine bay of the MG is very well presented just like the rest of the car. Obviously after a full restoration you can’t leave out the engine. This has been given a full check over, with the cylinder head now capable of happily running on unleaded fuel. Any other parts were replaced as necessary and to finish it off engine parts were either painted or polished accordingly.

The cooling system has been treated to an aluminum radiator and also an oil cooler which has been plumbed in to further aid oil cooling. The air filter covers for the twin carbs have been powder coated and, as mentioned before, the small attention to detail such as the decals on the air filter and heater box have been replaced to give a factory fresh appearance. Also, the same for the VIN plate which has been remade, although the original one does come with the car.

The underside has been coated in stone-guard and underseal in places and we can't see any areas for concern. Although generally clean on the underside, a steam clean would just freshen this up and remove some road grime. A full stainless steel exhaust, including the manifold, runs straight from the 1800cc, which should have released a few extra horses and obviously gives a nice crisp note when revved. Another bonus for the new keeper is that it will last for many years to come. The MG has had new calipers and discs fitted back in 2010 but has covered less than 3,000 miles since then.

The car starts up at the flick of the key, a blip of the throttle and the twin carburettors clear their throats. The 1800cc sounds fantastic with no unwanted noises creeping in. The MGB sits nice and level, which drives, handles just like the British sports car is supposed to, with no noises coming from the transmission or gearbox as it swiftly changes through the 4-speed plus overdrive manual gearbox.

History

Restored in 2008 to a very high standard, the MGB has not wanted for anything. Any issues have been dealt with straight away with a no expense spared approach.

In the history file the MGB still retains the original owner's handbook. There are a huge amount of parts listed in a number of receipts, anything from nuts and bolts to clips and brake discs, which is nice to see.

The Roadster has a valid MOT which expires on 23rd March 2022. One thing to point out is that since 2007 the car has had 11 MOT tests and not once received an advisory, which is definitely the sign of a well looked after and well built car.

Summary

The MGB was a hugely popular car when it was made and now still as popular in the classic car market. This means there are quite a few available when you start looking around …….. But this one is just lovely! The MG has had everything you think might be an issue with any classic car taken care of in the extensive restoration.

A weekend toy to whiz off around the countryside for an afternoon pub lunch, or take to the show field at a classic car rally, it is quite simply ready to drive and enjoy!

We estimate this stunning British classic to reach between £16,000 - £20,000

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with us at The Market HQ near Abingdon; we are open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm, to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.

About this auction

Seller

Private: philip scott


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

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