Description
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
27th Nov, 2024 13:00
1977 MG B Roadster
Estimate
£10, 000 - £12, 000
Lot details
Registration No: EVG 790H
Chassis No: GHN5442391G
MOT: Exempt
Benefits from a replacement Ivor Searle engine
Fitted with electronic ignition and a chrome bumper conversion
Displays a credible c. 96, 000 miles and current ownership since 2019
The MGA had really been the first 'BMC corporate' MG, and the MGB which replaced it was intended to be even more popular. Although the engineering of the new car was evolutionary - the B Series engine, transmission, rear axle and independent front suspension were all improved versions of those used in the previous MGA. The first incarnation of the MGB built from 1962 to April 1965 featured distinctive pull-type door handles and a 95bhp/ 1798cc engine with three-main-bearing crankshaft and while overdrive was an optional extra, the model's top speed was more than 100mph. Today, it enjoys a very strong following and with its GT sister has spawned a dedicated support industry. For many, the early chrome-bumper MGB Roadster is the epitome of the classic British sports car. When the MGB replaced the MGA in 1962, the main change was the use of a lower and wider steel monocoque bodyshell rather than a separate chassis and body, and a larger 1798cc engine instead of the 1498cc power unit fitted to the MGA. The other major changes to the model were a new grille and an all-synchromesh gearbox on the 1967-launched MkII, whilst American Federal-compliant black rubber instead of chrome bumpers further changed the appearance from 1974.
First registered in August 1977, the vendor has owned the car for 5 years, with the MG B currently displaying a credible c. 96, 000 miles on the odometer. Finished in an iconic Green, prior to the current ownership, the car has been subject to a replacement Ivor Searle engine, completed some 12-15 years ago, with the factory gearbox with overdrive on 3rd and 4th gear. As is quite common these days, the rubber impact bumpers have been backdated to the earlier chrome bumpers, and the keen sighted will have noted the Roadster wears an earlier registration number, having been changed to an age-related 1970 number to complement the period of chrome bumper MG Bs, we believe, by a previous keeper. The dashboard remains in 1977 specification.
Thought to have been subjected to rust preventative treatment underneath, some 6 to 7 years ago, the Roadster also benefitted from having electronic ignition fitted in the last year, to aid a healthy spark and more reliable cold starts. At the time of consignment, the radio cassette player worked fine. It is offered with a V5C and a full tonneau.
