Description
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
27th Nov, 2024 13:00
1968 MG C Roadster
Estimate
£16, 000 - £20, 000
Registration No: YUY 370H
Chassis No: GCN-1318G
MOT: March 2025
A home market car first registered on the 5th September 1969
Subject to an extensive bodywork refurbishment and engine overhaul in 1992
Offered with a large history file detailing servicing and restoration bills
Intended as a flagship sportscar to replace the Austin-Healey 3000, the MGC was introduced in autumn 1967. Based around the same two-door monocoque bodyshell as the humble MGB (albeit with a substantially altered engine bay and floorpan), the newcomer was powered by a 2912cc OHV straight-six engine allied to either four-speed manual plus overdrive or three-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with new torsion-bar independent front suspension, telescopic shock absorbers and lower geared rack and pinion steering, it was visually distinguished by a 'power bulge' bonnet and taller 15-inch wheels. While early road tests criticised the car's 'nose heavy' handling later reports were far kinder (which suggests that Abingdon's engineers quickly overcame the larger powerplant's extra mass). With some 145bhp and 170lbft of torque on tap, the model was reputedly capable of 120mph. Too readily confused with the four-cylinder MGB, it was dropped in 1969 after just 4, 544 Roadsters and 4, 458 GTs had allegedly been made. Though, some forty years on, the MGC's lack of period sales success has only made it more collectible.
According to the BMIHT heritage certificate on file, chassis G-CN1/ 318-G was despatched on the 12th February 1968 to Windmill & Lewis Limited of Bristol and was specified in the attractive colour scheme of Mineral Blue over a Black interior trim. Little is known of the early history of the MGC, however it is known that by 1992 it was in the possession of a Mr H. D Brown in a rather dilapidated state and in need of restoration. The Classic Transport Company of Wolverhampton were entrusted with the refurbishment works to the car, and invoices on file from them are backed up by a photographic record of works undertaken, which included panel working such as new sills, fresh paint in the original Mineral Blue, fresh interior trim and a new hood, rechroming work and a complete overhaul of the straight-six power unit. Once back on the road, the two-seater was continuously kept well maintained and the condition of the now thirty year old restoration is testament to the high quality of the works performed and its gentle life. Acquired by the current keeper in 2018, the car was used sparingly for sunny days, and an invoice on file dating to April 2024 confirms a full oil and coolant service, new batteries, remedial works to the carburettors and work to the ignition system to aid its good running.
Upon inspection, the vendor noted that 'YUY 370H' is a particularly good example of an MGC Roadster and remarked that it has remained in 'very good' condition all round. Now offered for sale due to the vendor having a number of other classics that are taking up his time, 'YUY 370H' will make a fine sports car for any prospective new owner either to enjoy trips out or keep as part of a collection.
