Lot 308: 1970 MG B

Designed in-house at MG, with final styling by Farina, the new MG MGB was launched at the 1962 Earls Court Motor Show. Its appeal was instant, offering a huge increase in interior space while having overall dimensions less than those of the MGA. Capacity was enlarged from 1,622cc to 1,798cc via twin SU carburettors it developed a respectable 94bhp at 5,400rpm and 1071b ft at 3,500rpm which, allied to a four speed gearbox, allowed the handsome new MG to achieve 0-60mph in 11.4 seconds and a top speed of 105mph. Universally acclaimed, the MGB was to become a symbol of the swinging Sixties. And as with all MGs, it was soon very active in competition. After an inauspicious two car entry at Sebring in 1963, an Abingdon works car won its class and finished 12th overall at Le Mans in the same year, courtesy of Paddy Hopkirk and Alan Hutcheson. The first major change came in September 1964 - a hardtop and overdrive had become options in January 1963 - when the engine was revised with five rather than three main bearings and the previously optional oil cooler became standard; at the same time outputs rose to 95bhp at 5,250rpm and the already good torque to ll0lb ft at 3,000rpm. A Mk II version, otherwise identical mechanically, was introduced in 1967 with a gearbox with synchromesh on first gear and improved ratios which necessitated a change to a wider transmission tunnel. This right-hand drive, Mk II MGB has just been the subject of a comprehensive 2000 plus hours restoration in Australia, the work including a full engine rebuild with new pistons, bearings, timing chain and sprockets, and oil pump, a complete overhaul of the gearbox and overdrive and refurbishment of the braking system including fitment of new front discs and rear drums. Finished in Old English White with navy interior and matching hood, this car has been restored to an exceptionally high standard. Fully road tested, it is said to drive like a brand new, original specification MGB.