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.
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
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
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
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 is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own 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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