Description
Renowned for being one of the UK’s most popular and enduring classic cars, the MGB also had a superb period competition career that included class victory in both the Le Mans 24 Hours and the Monte Carlo Rally. A works-entered car driven by Julian Vernaeve and Andrew Hedges won the 1966 Marathon de la Route, a gruelling 84-hour enduro held at the Nürburgring, while further class wins were scored at the Targa Florio and the Spa 1000Km.
Launched in 1962, the MGB was a more practical and modern car than the MGA it replaced. It featured monocoque construction and carried over the B-Series engine that had been used in its predecessor, but enlarged from 1622cc to 1798cc.
It was originally offered in roadster form only, but the Pininfarina-designed MGB GT coupé was added to the range in late 1965 and various updates were applied during the car’s 18-year production run. A Mark II model arrived in 1967 with an all-synchromesh gearbox, then the British Leyland era ushered in plastic seats instead of leather, Rostyle wheels and a revised grille.
Safety legislation led to the adoption in 1974 of the distinctive ‘rubber bumpers’, and in late 1979 it was announced that production would end the following year.
The MGB being offered for sale here is a 1969 Roadster that had been restored using a Heritage shell, before being converted in 2018 into a competitive rally car that could be used on classic car events. The work was carried out by renowned specialist AMK Engineering in Lancashire and – with the exception of the bodywork – everything was replaced, rebuilt and upgraded.
The car now features a blueprinted 1950cc engine with Omega pistons and Kent 717 camshaft, and a reconditioned gearbox with overdrive on third and fourth gears, plus a competition clutch. A Maniflow competition exhaust system was installed and the suspension was rebuilt – a process that included fitting Polybushes throughout and negative-camber front wishbones.
A new wiring loom incorporating 16 fuses was fitted, and inside there are now bucket seats from a Mazda MX-5 with four-point OMP harnesses, a full Safety Devices roll cage, a Brantz Trip Meter with the all-important drivers display for regularity use and a POTI navigation light.
The fuel lines have been rerouted inside the car, while the underside benefits from a sump guard and tank guard. It features an original works hardtop and replica Minilite wheels, and is superbly presented throughout.
The upgraded engine offers impressive torque for relaxed on-road driving, and there’s enough power for the whole package to come alive on sporting tests.
Having covered only about 2000 miles since the work was completed – including an entry on the Hero Novice Trial along with an appearance in the famous Pomeroy Trophy earlier this year – this MGB remains in excellent condition and has been expertly prepared so that it’s ready for its next owner to use and enjoy.
Our client is enthusiastic to find a new home for this exceptionally prepared car so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to arrange to view.
The car is currently with Rally Preparation Services sister Company, the RPS Storage facility and available for inspection. All viewings and test drives welcomed through direct contact with Rally Preparation Services.
All viewings and test drives welcomed by appointment at Rally Preparation Services.
All enquiries please contact us on using the button below or telephone +44(0)the details below
Specifications
Date of original registration 08/ 09/ 1969
Rebuilt Rally spec engine
Brantz International 3 with drivers display
RaliClok stopwatch
AFFF Fire extinguisher
Navigators’ footrest
Overdrive switched gear knob
OMP Harnesses
Safety Devices roll cage
Mota Lita steering wheel
Battery Kill switch
Hard Top roof vent
Door pockets
Spot lights
Minator alloy road wheels
Reversing light
Underbody protection
Mudflaps
Winter Tyres
Tow points front and rear
Co-driver storage
