Description
1978 MGB GT – Rare Gold Seal Engine | Overdrive | Tan Leather | £10k Recent Restoration
For sale is my cherished 1978 MGB GT, presented in classic British Racing Green with a standout full tan leather interior. This is a truly head-turning example that blends classic style with seriously sorted mechanicals. If you’re looking for a usable classic with character, presence, and pedigree, read on.
Highlights
Rare original factory Gold Seal replacement engine – a very desirable and collectable feature, these were warranty replacement units manufactured by MG to much tighter tolerances, the Silver Seal or standard engines fitted at Longbridge.
Overdrive gearbox – cruising at speed is smooth and relaxed.
Glass sunroof
Extensive mechanical and interior restoration in the last 12 months – nearly £10, 000 spent
Always garaged
Starts on the button, pulls strongly, and drives like no other
The Drive
Mechanically, this MGB GT is absolutely on the button. It runs happily at cruising speeds all day, and the overdrive works flawlessly. There’s no wandering or sloppiness in the steering – everything feels super tight and responsive, thanks to the new rack, polybushes, and suspension work. A real driver’s classic.
The Condition
This is not a concours car. The bodywork presents well from a few steps back, but close inspection will reveal cosmetic imperfections and the beginnings of some rust in the usual MGB areas. The inner wings were previously flagged for attention, but structurally, the car has always been safe and roadworthy under my ownership.
The price reflects the enormous mechanical and interior investment already made – all the hard (and expensive) work has been done.
Other Details
Mileage: 105, 200 (Unsure at what point in the 80's or mileage the engine was replaced with a GoldSeal unit)
Only service history from my ownership
Garaged and lovingly maintained
Matching tyres all around. Fronts are brand new. (Avon ZT7's)
Will include receipts and documents showing all recent work
HISTORIC MOT, £0 Road Tax & ULEZ Exempt.
There are other bits such as LED halo headlights for easier night-time driving, additional thermostat controlled cooling fan _ lots of other bits that I've forgotton to mention.
Why I’m Selling
This car has been a passion project, but with new ventures ahead, it’s time for someone else to enjoy it. I've also (stupidly) fallen in love with a Rolls Royce Silver Spirit. If you want an MGB GT that you can jump in and drive without worrying about reliability, this is the one.
No silly offers or time wasters, please. Come see it, hear it run, and take it for a spin – the car sells itself. You will need to provide a valid license and a comprehensive insurance policy with this vehicle VRM named - this can be arranged easily via Cuvva.
Please note that vehicle is advertised elswhere. Work Carried Out (£9. 9k+ spent at MG specialist Beech Hill Garage and other specialists)
Mechanical Overhaul
Complete safety and condition check
Major Lubrication service + Plugs replaced (NGK BP6ES)
New front brake discs and pads
New wheel bearings
New steering rack
All bushes replaced with Polyurethane bushes fitted all round
New front coil springs and bump stops
New water pump & thermostat
Cooling system flush and refill
Tracking, column replacement
Fuel system checked and ethanol-proof fuel hose fitted
New fuel sender unit, Fuel Lines, Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, seal, and locking ring
Interior Restoration
Full bespoke tan leather trim including:
New biscuit carpet set installed
New Tan Leather door cards & Walnut Burr handles
Tan leather gear gaiter fitted
New Leather Front + Rear Seats.
Mota Lita 14 "Flat Wood" Steering Wheel
+ Chrome bits.
I have the Tan Leather to replace the black dashboard, with Tan Leather / Dark Tan Piping but never got round to fitting.
Centre console catch repair
Seat runners lubricated
