1974 MGB Roadster - nice, well maintained classic car

MGB roadster,1974

Low mileage, well maintained example

57,000 original miles, last owner in Kentucky, excellent chassis and floors with no damage, rust, repairs, or undercoating (an excellent way to hide rust). And excellent body with beautiful red paint.

Engine was rebuilt 2,000 miles ago, I tested compression: 150-155 psi in every cylinder), 65+ psi oil pressure when hot, and no smoke under operating conditions....all of which isn't much different than the day this car left the factory. SU carbs seem properly tuned as the car idles nicely and doesn't have any flat spots under acceleration.

And has a perfect working overdrive transmission...4 speed PLUS a '5th' gear electrically engaged. Makes for easier and quieter cruising, less engine wear and better fuel economy. A HUGE difference from a standard MGB.

Very clean engine bay, excellent original wiring harness, new alternator, nicely installed headlight relays offering brighter lights and less chance of burning out a light switch.

Wire wheels were sanded and primed/painted, new tubes and new radial tires. Trunk has been carpeted (and yes, the car does come with a proper wire wheel/tire spare, jack and knock off hammer), fitted with hydraulic trunk lid stays, brand new top just fitted, has a full tonneau cover, original chrome is not pitted nor peeling. And all gauges are original and work properly.

Lots of worthwhile options...expensive wood steering wheel, oil cooler, spin on oil filter, and a big shrouded radiator electric cooling fan. All of which make this an even better car.

Exhaust is quiet, brakes work properly, same with horn, wipers, all lights, handbrake, etc. This is one fabulous MGB that should give many years of dependable, enjoyable service. And has most every option one could imagine...including a modern stereo/CD unit.

One additional item....a past owner chose to install racing hood pins, hence the holes in the leading edge of the bonnet. If this car meets its very reasonable reserve, I will have the hood holes filled via weldeing and the hood painted. Alternatively, leave them the way they are and never worry about the rear hinged bonnet flying open!

1974 is a one of the best years for an MGB....the earliest cars are rather crude with ancient controls, single circuit brakes, non synchromesh 1st gear, and no factory rust prevention. 1968-1971s had an ugly dash with now air vents and no glove box. And after 1974, MGBs received ugly rubber bumpers and by 1977, were reduced to a mere single carb, 62.5hp engine. But as a 1974, the best of both worlds....still with chrome bumpers, twin SUs, 92+hp, dual circuit brakes, all synchromesh transmission (and a very strong unit, retained in the more powerful Euopean MGBGTV8s), much more reliable overdrive units, face level air vents (allowing an easily installation of modern air conditioning), and....golly gee, an actual glove box!!!!!
Car is for sale, the first buyer who comes my way will own a beautiful all season classic. And, of course, I have advertised this car in various publications and certainly reserve the right to sell it and end this auction. I can store the car for the winning bidder if necessary and can assist in shipping it anywhere in the world. If you have any questions, please call at 203-377-6746 weekdays during business hours EST.