1972 MG MGB ROADSTER

This MGB Roadster is a handsome example of one of the quintessential classic British sports cars, presented in smart condition, having been fully restored in the mid-1990s. It is powered by its original 1.8-litre BMC B-Series inline-four engine, with around 95bhp driving the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer indicates 13,182 miles, which is believed to be the mileage since restoration in 1996.

Launched in 1962 as the replacement for the MGA, the MGB utilised a unibody design, which was revolutionary at the time, resulting in a lower weight and greater overall strength, while also reducing manufacturing costs. Most noticeably, it also featured a dramatically refined body design, with its sleek lines and characteristic short upright grille becoming iconic over the years.

First registered in June 1972, this example features the early chromed metal bumpers, prior to their replacement with the less elegant rubber items that were introduced two years later. The current owner first acquired the car approximately 22 years ago, following its full restoration from a bare shell in 1996, and is now offering it for sale to another enthusiast.

Resprayed during the car’s renovation, the bodywork is in good condition overall, with only a slight dent to the nearside wing towards the light cluster, and a dent on the leading edge of the bonnet – but it is otherwise straight and solid, with no signs of accident damage. The red paintwork also presents well, and is generally glossy and even, but it does wear some signs of its age, including stone chips on the bonnet and fine scratches and swirls across its surface. Prior to the restoration, the car was yellow – though it is not known whether this was the factory finish.

The exterior chrome trim, including the bumpers, windscreen surround, boot catch and door mirrors is all in great shape, and have clearly been well cared-for and meticulously polished by the current owner. Unfortunately, the headlight lenses and rear nearside light lens have cracked, however replacement items are readily available at little cost.

The fabric convertible hood presents very well, and while its vinyl rear window is somewhat scratched and worn, the hood itself is free of any rips or tears and is fits snugly over the frame. This MGB rides on its original 14-inch wire wheels with two-eared chrome knock-off hub nuts, and all four are in very good shape, with only minor signs of surface corrosion to their spokes.

The interior was also retrimmed during the car’s restoration and remains in smart condition. The seats are upholstered in black leather with red piping, creating a sharp accent while reflecting the body colour, and are in excellent condition – save some general age-related wear including creases to the seats’ bolsters. The door cards appear to be trimmed in black vinyl with matching red accents.

The black dashboard, switches and gauge faces all present well, and the instrument bezels are bright and free of oxidisation. The wood-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel adds a classic touch to the cabin, and the original leather gear-knob is still present, although its surface is somewhat worn, as is to be expected given the car’s age. All of the interior buttons, switches and electrical items work correctly, however the seller notes that the radio cannot be tuned in.

This MGB’s last service was carried out on 13 June 2016, 11,718 miles after the restoration by classic specialist Holton-le-Clay Garage of Lincolnshire. The seller notes that this is an enjoyable and eminently usable Roadster. Its history file includes an itemised parts list from when it was rebuilt in 1996, so bidders can review what was replaced.

Its most recent MOT test was on 13 August 2019 at 12,998 miles, which it passed first time, with advisory notices issued for slight play in the offside rear wheel bearing, wear to the offside front lower suspension arm bush, and wear to the nearside rear front tyre.

This MGB Roadster is a characterful classic British sports car, which offers a fun driving experience and surprising practicality for longer journeys. Restored in 1996, this example has low mileage since then, still presents well to this day. It is now ready for its next owner to take the wheel and experience one of the most recognisable and popular two-seat convertibles of the 1960s and ‘70s.

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