1972 MGB GT (Overdrive model)

Photos provided by the vendor

Highlights

  • Older restoration
  • Thousands spent, documented
  • Overdrive model
  • Historic vehicle status
  • Solid classic

The Appeal

With handsome coupé proportions, a wealth of owner’s clubs and part suppliers, fine handling and fun drivetrains, it’s easy to see why the MGB GT remains a popular classic. If you’re looking to get started in the world of classics, or simply want something that is easy to maintain, there’s no better choice.
This charming Blaze Orange example has been subject to a couple of previous restorations, and is presented in solid condition. With a little attention in a couple of areas, it would make a very fine daily classic – or even a great basis for a comprehensive restoration or race car conversion. With the MGB GT, the choices are almost endless.

The History and Paperwork

  • Built in 1971
  • First registered in May 1972
  • Historic vehicle status (tax and MOT exempt)
  • Three former keepers from new
  • Last owner since June 2022 – only selling as they lacked storage space
  • Previous owner from 1981 to 2022 – more than 40 years!
  • Invoices for a £2,100 restoration in 1990 and a £6,000 restoration in 2002
  • Invoices showing more than £3,400 spent on maintenance since 2018
  • 43,801 miles indicated (five-figure odometer)

The Interior

  • Black vinyl seats look to be in fine condition, with some wear and creasing commensurate with the car’s age
  • The door cards are finished in black vinyl, some of which is showing signs of bubbling
  • Black carpet is fitted through the cabin and boot area, and shows well with no notable damage or staining we could discern
  • All of the driving controls, instruments and switchgear elements appear in nice condition, with a genuine patina and level of wear
  • A hazard switch and variable speed intermittent wipers have been installed
  • A full-size spare wheel is present in the boot
  • The boot floor appears to be nice and solid, with no major corrosion to note

The Exterior

  • There are minor blemishes, microblisters, bubbles and hairline cracks in places
  • Overall, the bodywork presents well – the panels look straight and undamaged
  • All of the external trim appears to be present and correct, with some of the brightwork looking a little tired and pitted, but nothing that would concern us
  • 14-inch Rostyle wheels with Falken tyres look to be in fine fettle
  • The Webasto sunroof doesn’t show any evidence of rips or tears
  • Underneath, the car looks nice and straight, with no major corrosion we could see to the floor or sills – it appears the car has been undersealed at some point

The Mechanics

  • Classic 1,798cc B-series four-cylinder engine
  • Twin SU carburetors with K&N performance filters
  • Four-speed manual transmission with overdrive
  • We’re told the gear change is decent with only a slight crunch if rushed, and the overdrive working as it should
  • The vendor reports a noise from the gearbox which disappears when the clutch is depressed – this may indicate a worn input shaft bearing
  • Under the bonnet, the engine bay is clean and tidy, with a little surface corrosion showing on some components, but nothing significant we could see
  • There may be a coolant and / or oil leak as there appears to be a slight wet patch beneath the engine compartment
  • It’s reported that the car starts, drives and stops well, with a little smoke on start-up
  • While no obvious faults are evident, other than those already noted, the vendor recommends a thorough inspection before use as there may be faults which are unknown

Summary

Solid, straight and clean, we think this brightly coloured little MGB GT is a great opportunity to acquire a classic that has clearly been cherished and cared for. 

With a little work, it may soon be something very special indeed.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
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Auction Details
  • Year 1972
  • Make MG
  • Model B GT
  • Colour Orange
  • Odometer 43,801 Miles
  • Engine size 1798
  • Seller Type Trade
  • Town Harlow
  • County Essex
  • Country United Kingdom
  • Auction ends
Auction FAQs
Bidding history
8 Bids from 5 bidders
  • mgbfan5•••• £5,400 22/02/23
  • Lesecq•••• £5,300 22/02/23
  • gauchoa•••• £5,000 22/02/23
  • michael•••• £4,900 21/02/23
  • Stratfo•••• £4,800 18/02/23
  • michael•••• £4,700 17/02/23
  • mgbfan5•••• £4,600 17/02/23
  • michael•••• £4,500 17/02/23

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