Lot 007: 1973 MG B GT V8

Created by Mini racer turned car tuner Ken Costello, the first Rover V8-engined MGB appeared in 1970. Suitably impressed, the Abingdon manufacturer began work on an 'official' version the following year. Introduced in August 1973, the resultant MGB GT V8 looked disarmingly standard. Borrowing its four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox and rear-end transmission from the six-cylinder MGC (but doing without that model's 'power bulge' bonnet thanks to the use of a special low-rise exhaust manifold), it utilised the same monocoque bodyshell and suspension layout as the four-cylinder MGB (their respective powerplants being near identical in weight). Thus, although it necessitated a modified bulkhead, raised ride height, bespoke gear ratios and upgraded front disc brakes, the installation of the all-alloy 3528cc Rover V8 proved relatively straightforward. Credited with 137bhp and 193lbft of torque, the Buick-derived unit imbued the MGB with a hitherto unknown level of performance. Reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and 125mph, the MGB GT V8 was favourably received by the contemporary motoring press. Only in production for three years, a mere 2,591 are thought to have been made. Finished in yellow with black leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork and paintwork (while, he rates the wheels as "excellent"). Reportedly "an original MGB GT V8 built at Abingdon in 1973", 'YNF 849M' entered the current ownership some six years later. Said to have been "extensively restored by Murray Scott Nelson of Scarborough during 1984", the coupe sports "a MGC bonnet for looks and lightness" as well as wider alloy wheels and flared wheelarches (the latter having been modified as part of the mid-1980s rejuvenation process). Apparently treated to refurbished alloy wheels during 2007, the car is further understood to have "won many prizes and rosettes at classic car shows" not to mention being judged "best in Class 5 at the 2005 Yorkshire Motor Show". Showing an unwarranted 76,000 miles to its odometer, this attractively customised MGB GT V8 is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 2009.