When the MGB was first introduced in 1962 it was always the intention of BMC to introduce a more powerful variant when a suitable engine had been identified and developed. The pressure to develop the more powerful MGB was exacerbated by the Austin Healey 3000, also manufactured in the Abingdon MG factory, due to finish production in 1967.

The engine finally chosen for the MGC was from the Morris stable – the BMC C-Series straight six, 2,912cc producing a healthy 145 bhp. The C-Series was significantly different in architecture to the MGB’s B-Series variant which required significant revisions to both the front suspension and, more noticeably, the bonnet profile. It is this that gives the MGC its signature “power-bulge” and teardrop shaped prominence required to clear the forward carburettor.

This particular MGC was first exported to Ireland in 1969 before being returned to the UK and registered here in March 1970. This is a very late production car, being production number 9087 with the final car being production number 9099. Only 1,405 MGC’s were built for the home market with the majority destined for North American markets.

The current owner acquired the car in 2006 and immediately initiated a significant restoration program covering all aspects of the car and totalling over £30,000. This extensive program of works included a complete body strip-down, rebuild and respray. 

A gearbox overhaul and an engine rebuild. In addition to this a long list of new parts were fitted including 5.5 inch wheels, windscreen, hood, stainless steel exhaust and suspension components. A number of strategic upgrades were also specified including twin electric fans, electronic ignition, competition radiator and roll bar.

The car is a UK registered car but is currently located in France. The new owner would be responsible for arranging and paying for transportation from France to their chosen address.

This owner reports that he has a full and comprehensive history file detailing the expenditure listed above. Despite currently being in France, the MGC is currently registered on a UK V5 in the name of the current owner.

The interior is in good used condition considering the age of the car. The current owner reports that it would have been the only area of the car he would have further addressed if he had been keeping the car.

Give that, seats, carpets and door cards all appear to present in good condition with no particular areas of issue noted or reported. The dash and door cappings are finished in a dark wood veneer, entirely in-keeping with the period and ambiance of the car.

The MGC is fitted with a period correct, three spoke Moto-Lita, alloy and wood steering wheel and the gear stick is topped with a complimentary wooden gear-knob.

Given the depth of the restoration of the car it is no surprise that the current owner describes the exterior of the MGC as “nearly perfect.” The only areas he notes as less than perfect are some minor bubbles around the bonnet chrome bulge and three small holes in the hood (a barn mouse is the main suspect) which should be an easy repair. He suggests the foam sealer around the edge will need to be replaced also.

The larger 5.5 x 15 inch chromed wire wheels affixed with two eared chrome spinners are in exceptional condition. New Continental Premium Contact 6 tyres are fitted all round in a 195/65 configuration.

In addition to the extensive schedule of works detailed above, the current owner commissioned a full engine rebuild in 2013. This was undertaken by specialists MG CRS of Stafford. 

The engine was upgraded, ports flowed and every component either renewed or refurbished. Additionally, the rear axle was rebuilt, and the exhaust heat wrapped with a heat deflector plate. The owner confirms that the car has only undertaken around 2,500 miles since this work was finished.

Add to this the mechanical work that was addressed in the earlier restoration and it is no surprise that the owner reports that the car “runs like a sewing machine and is a pleasure to drive. It corners as if on rails and the straight through exhaust sounds brilliant. The engine has been tuned and it accelerates to 60 in under 9 seconds with a top speed of 120 on overdrive.”

The MGC is a car that signals its intentions on first acquaintance. The power-bulge reminds you that a beefy 3-litre, straight-six engine sits up-front in this stylish British roadster rather than the somewhat milder 1.8L of the MGB.

As if that isn’t appealing enough, this particular car is a late, low mileage car in a fully restored and upgraded condition. A real head-turner in a great colour this car looks as good as it sounds as good as it goes. A real stunner looking for an enthusiastic new owner so bid today.

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