1980 MG B

The MG B on offer is believed to have been delivered new to the USA in 1980. Being a US-spec car, it features the detuned engine with single SU carburettor setup. The car is presented in a metallic blue colour and offered from a Dutch collection.

The car is in mediocre condition overall. The chrome parts, which include bumpers and front grille, are all in decent condition with no rust or corrosion. We could also not see any damages such as dents to the bumpers. The bodywork shows some more or less serious rust issues, especially on the sills left and right. Potential buyers should be aware that these rust spots could be hiding some more serious damage underneath that will most likely require attention sooner rather than later. The rest of the bodywork is in decent condition, and the bright blue metallic paint, most certainly not original to the vehicle is shiny overall. The tires appear to still have enough thread left, though it is unknown how old they are. The wire wheels with central knock-off lock are in nice condition without too much rust and corrosion. The two headlamps are in good condition, but the rear lights are slightly tarnished. Replacement parts are readily available though. Being a US car, this example most likely had side repeaters originally, which have been removed.

The soft top, made of black imitation leather appears to have some damage and signs of wear. It might require replacing unless you do not plan to ever drive the car in the wet. The bodywork has been retouched behind the driver’s seat where the soft top is fixed to the car. It is unclear why this repair job was done, but the execution is only to very mediocre level and the repairs are clearly visible.

The interior is in overall decent condition. The dashboard, in black plastic appears to have a slight crack on the left hand side beneath the A-pillar. One of the knobs on the radio is missing and the steering wheel is not original to this car. The center console has suffered from heat and the plastic is cracked. Both door panels appear original and in good condition. The seats, of which we think they may have been replaced or refurbished at some point, are in decent condition, but the driver’s seat has a tear on the upper part.

The car seems to be mostly free from any serious perforating rust underneath, but the suspension parts need some attention as we can spot rust forming. Though the chassis is largely solid, probably also because it was well protected by the oil leaks from engine and gearbox, some more serious rust can be seen on the sills. As mentioned earlier, this rust is also visible outside. A complete restoration of the body sills are probably necessary to make this car fit for the next 50 years of driving.

Research shows that the last MOT was passed in the Netherland with two remarks: there was a difference in balance between left and right brakes and the windshield washer was defect. We do not know whether these two issues have been addressed since.

Little is known about the history of this MG B, apart that it was delivered new to an owner in the USA in 1980. In the 1980s, the car was already back in the Netherlands and has stayed there since. It is now offered from a collection based in Holland.

The MGB combines simple mechanics with attractive looks and real driving pleasure. These cars are timeless classics that have such a big following that maintenance is cheap and spare parts always readily available. If you feel like it, you can do most of the servicing works on an MG yourself, which can be hugely rewarding. The example on offer could be your entry ticket to the classic car world, especially if you are looking for a project car. Once the different issues sorted, this can be a very fun and reliable car for your next weekend getaway.

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