1970 MGB-GT - Restored - No Reserve

Only 125,618 GTs were produced in the model's 1966-1974 production run - out of 512,802 MGBs between 1962 and 1980. The Abingdon team initially struggled with the design, so a roadster was dispatched to Turin in early 1964 for Carrozzeria Pininfarina to have a go. The famous Italian designers managed a conversion of such elegance that many rate the GT prettier than the roadster. Other than that sleek roof and tailgate, the most obvious change was the taller windshield, making it easier to get in and out than the roadster. The raised windscreen height and side windows mean that there is a realistic amount of headroom for those in the front. It's got lots of leg-room, elbow- room and reclining seats. The GT handles lots more luggage than the roadster. Pop-open rear windows provide excellent ventilation for those days when you really wish for air-conditioning.

The MGB was one of the first cars to feature a lightweight unitized body with crumple zones. It has disk brakes up front and precise rack-and-pinion steering. The engine is a torquey little pushrod mill with two valves per cylinder. Once you're behind the wheel of the MGB GT you realize that the engineers at British Leyland knew what they were doing. The GT is a pleasure to drive. It's quick, nimble and smooth. The engine growls and pulls like an English bulldog. Steering is light and precise. The ride is smooth and body lean is minimal.

This one is about as rust-free as you will find, with extensive mechanical restoration. With only 11,988 miles on the rebuilt engine and the Datsun 280Z 5-speed gearbox, this one is ready to drive with confidence and pride. It cruises comfortably at modern highway speed, turning only about 2,6oo rpm at 60 mph. Spares include fuel pump, water pump, belts, hoses, Pertronix ignition module, thermostats, original back seat and steering wheel. Extra equipment installed includes fuel pump rollover kill switch, headlamp relays, LED bulbs (as many as I could install), jack case and auxiliary radiator fan.

The car was professionally appraised at $16,600 in Sept. 2011 before any of the mechanical restoration was done, based largely on its cosmetics. That doesn't mean perfection though. Known imperfections: two paint chips (about 3/16" dia.) on passenger door and left wing, dull looking chrome plated moulding on rear glass (replacement now available from Moss Motors $280), backup lights inoperative due to no power wiring, stone dent in driver's door rear view mirror, body filler on rear valence panel under bumper (see photo) and successfully repaired fuel tank leak at soldered suction fitting for fuel pump.

Regrettably, this one is for sale due to orthopedic problems! Can be seen in Georgetown, TX or at Austin Bergstrom Airport by appointment.