1981 MGB GT LE

Highlights

Original, unmodified factory LE
One of only 580 BGTs
Amongst the last 1,000 MGBs built
Low documented mileage of 65,000
Solid and presentable with scope to improve

The Appeal

After 18 years of production and over half a million cars, it came to this: the final LE models. This car is one of the last 1,000 MGBs built and amongst the mere 580 BGTs produced before the historic Abingdon factory closed in October 1980.

All of which makes it rather special. The LE got smart Pewter grey metallic paintwork and five spoke alloys together with distinctive graphics, all of which this car retains. The mileage of just 65,000 is verified by a file of old MOTs.

The car is solid and presentable, but there is scope for the buyer to invest and improve it. Considering its historical significance, that feels worthwhile. Due to recent storage it is sold as a non-running project, although we understand that the engine turns over.

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The History and Paperwork

First registered 2nd March 1981
Chassis records show this is one of the last 1,000 MGBs built
LEs were built from 1979 until the factory closed in October 1980
These cars received Pewter Grey metallic paint, alloy wheels, silver stripes and silver grey interior
Only 580 BGTs and 420 Roadsters were built, of which 2 were put into the BMIHT collection
History file includes old invoices from around 2015 and earlier
Registered as a Historic Vehicle and eligible for MOT, tax and ULEZ exemptions
Last MOT to October 2020 with 64,461 miles showing on test and non-structural advisories
Now showing 65,388 miles
Seven registered keepers from new
Original dealer correspondence
LE advertisement
Old MOTs to verify mileage

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The Condition

Original and apparently unrestored low mileage car
Retains its factory LE features as outlined above
Paintwork is very presentable with good finish and original LE decals in good order
There are areas of paintwork to note such as edge of bonnet and other panels
Bodywork is tidy, solid and presentable but with various localised points to note
These include bubbling to wings, sills and arches and visible in photographs
Bumpers and spoiler and exterior trim appear to be in good, complete order
Sits on factory correct alloy wheels with matching spare and centre caps, all well presented
Underside appears to present well with evidence of undersealing and floors visible
Due to the age of the vehicle and lack of recent use we recommend inspecting the underside photographs
Standard LE interior with silver/grey ‘deckchair’ cloth interior in good order
Seat fabric has lightly loosened as is typical of this model, but not unsightly
Some light stains and signs of age to note inside to seats and headlining
Carpets, door cards, dashboard and dials appear to be in good order
Fitted with a 1980s period radio cassette player
There are some small marks to note on the steering wheel centre boss

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The Mechanics

1,798cc 4cyl 95bhp carburettor-fed MGB engine
4spd manual gearbox with overdrive
We are told the engine turns but does not run
Due to the recent lack of use a check over and service may be required
The car is sold as a project
Supplied with spare brand new ignition barrel and two keys
History file and MOT records the car has been in use since last MOT in 2019
MOT records in photographs support the very low displayed mileage

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BEFORE YOU BUY

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