Highlights

A highly original and attractive example of the much-loved MGB Roadster
Four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive
Presented in very good overall condition for its age

The Appeal

MG owed its existence to the American market. Ever since young “GIs” started shipping them across the Atlantic at the end of the Second World War, MG has focused its attention stateside, designing models specifically for the US market. The MGB Roadster was no exception. Two-seater convertibles were all the rage in California, and the MGB was pitched as a rival to the various Italian Spiders from Fiat and Alfa Romeo. The tactic worked; nearly 72,000 were exported to the US.

This left-hand drive 1978 example boasts a US specification and is now offered for sale in Spain. As the photographs attest, it’s an incredibly original example in very good condition for its age. Even the original Rostyle wheels and period stere-cassette deck remain! The vendor informs us that the odometer shows 31,000 km (19,262 miles), which, based on the car’s originality and condition, may be correct.

The History and Paperwork

US spec, left-hand drive example
VIN: GHN5UL475478 G
31,000 km indicated, which the vendor suggests to be accurate
Road registered in Spain
Spanish registration document present

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The Condition

US market spec side repeaters and ride height
‘Rubber bumper’ model; both bumpers appear in superb order for their age
Very smart red paintwork with minimal imperfections apparent
Smart chrome, glass, lights and badging all round
Straight and soli-looking bodywork with well-fitting doors
We understand the folding soft top to be in serviceable condition
Smart period Rostyle wheels
Very well-preserved original interior
Light wear to the vinyl seats
Minimal wear apparent to the carpeting
Smart dashboard, instruments and switchgear

The Mechanics

1.8-litre four-cylinder B Series petrol engine
Four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive
Impeccably presented and original-looking engine bay
We understand the MGB to be in good running and driving order
The vendor doesn’t report any known mechanical issues

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

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✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.

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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand.