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MGB Roadster 1800

Origin: England 1979

This is a 1979 MGB. It belongs to the last production run of the model. It’s a 2-seater roadster with a 1.8 L B Series engine from Austin Motor Company, rear-wheel drive, 4 gears with overdrive (which provides 6 transmission ratio possibilities). This unit is an English one and therefore, with the steering wheel on the right for left-side drive (although the headlight optics are already adapted for right-side drive).

We acquired this vehicle at the end of 2021 in the province of Castellón. This vehicle had been “rescued” a few years earlier, imported from England, largely restored and registered in Spain as historical car. We could buy the unit a quite good price, but with the knowing that there was a lot of work to be done on it and therefore many months to come before it would be brought up to our quality standards for classic cars.

This vehicle is currently in circulation and available for available for rent if you need it if you need it for a photo shoot, filming or exhibition. In any case, please feel free to contact us if you have any vehicle-related needs so we can help you.

Also, if you are an owner or future buyer of one of these models and you need any information about parts, spare parts, or technical information you may need, please contact us because we will be happy to share it with you.

MGB : Interventions made on the vehicle (until start 2023):

Jobs completed in car's trim:

Reconstruction of several elements of the dashboard, lights, horn, board wiring. We also removed couple of electrical elements that did not belong to the vehicle.
We repaired the heating system: fan, flaps, air ducts.
The interior was completely reupholstered. This was the biggest part. The photos you can see on this page show the previous state Vs the current state. The entire interior was fully rebuilt:
- Seats, door panels, carpet, rear panels, gearlever lining.
- The steering wheel was reupholstered as well as its aluminum spokes stripped (they were originally painted black in quite bad condition) and polished.
- The dashboard has walnut wood panels (some MGBs had this complement), but several of them (specifically those of the central console) were in very bad condition, therefore they were replaced.
- The central console itself was also replaced by a brand new one.
We installed a new set of rubber sealing moldings on the windows. As we have mentioned several times in some articles on this WEB site, this is one of the elements hat become really degraded by the the passage of time, and in almost all cases, its replacement is a must.
Installation of stereo system respecting the aesthetic standards of the vehicle (installation similar to those of our BMW E21).

MGB : These are some images of the car prior to our intervention:

The images in the gallery above will give you an idea of the condition in which we acquired the vehicle. It is true that mechanically it was in acceptable condition: in fact, the day of its purchase, the car drove 300 Kms by its own and without raising any problem during the route, from the place where we bought it -province of Castellón- to our garage facilities (Maresme area, province of Barcelona). The bodywork/paintwork was almost perfect -this car was surely repainted-, so it seems that car’s previous owners took quite good care of it. However, there were some elements -as you can see in the detail of works done- for which the previous owners did not take any action -for whatever reason- so they were really needing repair and/or rebuilt.

Jobs completed at mechanical level:

Replacement/adapt of the engine mounts: the longitudinal engine showed a slight deviation to the left (as if it was a little bit “fallen” towards left side). The reason was that the engine mountings where silent blocks are allocated, appeared defective, they looked as if they had been handcrafted for some reason, but poorly adapted, showing the described defect in which fix we had to work.
Valve adjustment.
Replace air filters and perform a first adjustment of the mixture. The SU carburetors of the MG’sare directly adjustable with couple of screws for richness of the air-petrol mixture, not only for idle regime (as the Solex ones), but also at running speed.
Gasoline filter replacement.
Replacement of transmission/gearbox mounts/silentblocks.
Replace steering box dust cap and realign steering box.
Replacement of the cable from the gearbox to the speedometer.
Replacement of the cooling circuit piping (taking advantage of the opportunity to clean the inside of the cooling circuit).
We removed some auxiliary parts from the engine compartment to pickle/repaint them (radiator expansion bottle -this one is metallic-, metallic heating pipes, some covers of the brake servo compartment, the brake servo “bell” itself, etc.).
Replacement of the fairing under the radiator with a new one.
We replaced the complete exhaust line (with a stainless steel one).
Exhaust manifold replacement.
Replacement of coil, capacitor, points set with subsequent ignition recalibration/resetting.
Replace electric fan power supply (the wiring was -let’s say in nicest possible way -with quite big room for improvement).
Valve cover replacement: Although it has an aesthetic impact in the appearance of the engine, it also has in terms of noise: these MG-Austin engines have the possibility of installing a duraluminum valve cover whose walls are considerably thicker than those of the original sheet metal one. These duraluminum covers greatly attenuates valve noise (this engine is quite noisy from the valves, so this is an appreciated improvement).
Overdrive overhaul, reconnection and start-up: This was a peculiar (or even funny) situation: The seller told us (he was completely honest) from the very beginning that the Overdrive was not working. But the fact is that, once we reconnected it (all the wires were literally cut so we had to rebuld the wiring) the overdrive started up and is currently working normally. In the next few days I will post an entry on this point.

MGB - Current vehicle status

All these interventions were carried out throughout 2022: some of them are very time-consuming: for example, the manual and artisanal nature of the reupholstery work means that when they are carried out, it takes two months to complete. And above all, starting from some “unofficial” rule which says that for a professional upholsterer, quality and rush are in inverse proportion, which translated to common life means “let him work without rushing him if you want a good result” :-).

These kind of mechanical interventions start from some premises to be taken into account: for example, in the case of MG cars, almost all spare parts have to be purchased outside Spain (two weeks delivery time). Some parts may need (actually the DID need) readjustment after purchased: for example, we had to lower the exhaust manifold iron surface in order to adapt it to the cylinder head version that comes with this engine -there are several versions ad ours was not 100% maching (bad luck! :-))- : between one and two weeks extra wait time due to the time spendby the machine shop to grind the part). In short, these are jobs that, besides the technical hours invested, require extra management time, imponderable situations that force temporary stoppages, the purchase of auxiliary material and, in summary, the management of unforeseen events that occur when a 50-year-old vehicle is reconditioned.

During 2023, the MBG jobs was set on standby for a few months (in order to prioritize the start-up of our other vehicles such as the Renault 4CV). The final phase of the MGB work will be undertaken during the third quarter of 2023, with the expectation of having the vehicle available for rental by the end of 2023.

MGB : Planned work to completely finish the car:

Replacing the timing chain, tensioner and front flywheel: This car has timing system by chain, and currently engine makes a noise which invites to think that either it is already “stretched” due to use, or the tensioner is no longer doing its job (or both). We will also take the opportunity to change the timing sprockets and the front flywheel. It is an intervention that will bring the engine back to perfect conditions. –> FINISHED

Replacement of the washers inside the differential: This is a common problem in MGBs: There are brass washers that adjust the differential pinions, so that they do not have axial play. The passage of time causes these washers to wear out or even disappear, leaving considerable play in the differential sprockets and generating a clearance in the driveshaft as seen in the video below, which manifests itself in the form of a “knocking” noise at low speeds, which, although not dangerous, is somewhat unpleasant. These washers are very inexpensive to purchase but take some time to replace. I leave you three videos: the first one is the play observed between the driveshaft and the diferential (in our own MGB). The second and third videos show the repair procedure (part I and part II).

-We will repaint the underbody of the car. Its previous owner applied a layer of corrosion protection, popularly known as “anti-gravel paint”, very effective in terms of protection, but the final finish is clearly improvable (in fact in the first video of the three you see above, you can see it). Following our work philosophy, the fact that it is a non-visible part of the car does not mean that it does not deserve a careful finish. –> FINISHED
And finally we are working to install the chrome bumper/grille in the classic MGB style. Of the two possible options, this unit has the “rubber” bumper -RUBBER BUMPER-, which aesthetically is not the most beautiful of the range: as we always say, it is true that the aesthetic issue is very personal, but in MGBs, 99% of users/owners consider the chrome bumper option much nicer. –> Upgrade work in progress (February 2025)

We will be regullarly updating this page in the coming weeks to show the progress of the jobs. We will expand the photo gallery, I will explain you about the Overdrive, and tell you the history of the model, in the same way as you can see in our other vehicles.

MGB - History

The Birth of the MGB: An Iconic British Roadster

The MGB is one of the most iconic cars of the British industry and a benchmark among classic roadsters. It emerged in the 1960s in response to the evolution of the affordable sports car market and the need to modernize the MG range. To understand its origin, it is essential to analyze both the historical context and the technical advances that marked its development.

Historical Context: The Evolution of MG

Since its founding in the 1920s, MG (Morris Garages) has been known for producing lightweight and affordable sports cars. During the 1940s and 1950s, models such as the MG TC, TD and TF enjoyed great popularity, especially in markets such as the United States. However, in the late 1950s, the market changed with the arrival of new European and Japanese competitors.

The MG A, launched in 1955, represented a significant advance in terms of design and performance, but it was already beginning to lag behind rivals such as the Triumph TR3 and the Austin-Healey.

The British Motor Corporation (BMC), owner of MG, decided to develop a more modern model with a monocoque structure, something new for the brand. Thus was born the MGB project, designed to replace the MGA as the new reference roadster.

MGB Development: Innovation and Simplicity

The MGB was designed by a team led by Syd Enever. Unlike its predecessors, the MGB dispensed with the independent chassis and adopted a monocoque structure, which improved rigidity, reduced weight and increased safety.

The engine chosen was a 1.8-liter four-cylinder (BMC B-series), capable of producing about 95 hp, which gave it respectable performance without compromising reliability. Thanks to its low weight and improved aerodynamics compared to the MGA, the MGB could reach 170 km/h and offer an agile and pleasant drive.

The interior was designed to be more comfortable and spacious than previous roadsters. In addition, the car incorporated safety improvements, such as impact absorption zones and increased crash protection, making it safer than other British sports cars of its time.

Launch and Worldwide Success

The MGB debuted in 1962 and quickly became a sales success. Its combination of attractive design, fun to drive and affordable price made it popular in both Europe and the United States. Its reliability and ease of maintenance also contributed to its widespread acceptance.

Throughout its production, which lasted until 1980, the MGB underwent various modifications and versions. The main variants are summarized here:

MGB: Evolutions and variants throughout its history

MGB versions (1962-1980)

Version	Years of Production	Main Features
MGB Roadster	1962-1980	Original convertible version with 1.8L engine and monocoque structure.
MGB GT	1965-1980	Coupe version designed by Pininfarina with fixed roof and 2+2 configuration.
MGC	1967-1969	Version with 2.9L in-line 6-cylinder engine, more powerful but with less agility.
MGB GT V8	1973-1976	Equipped with Rover V8 3.5L engine, exclusive for the British market.
MGB Rubber Bumper	1974-1980	Version with rubber bumpers to comply with U.S. safety regulations, with raised suspension.

Differences between the MGB Versions (MK1, MK2, MK3 and Facelift)

Feature	MGB Mk1 (1962-1967)	MGB Mk2 (1967-1972)	MGB Mk3 (1972-1974)	MGB Facelift (1974-1980)
Transmission	4-speed manual gearbox without synchronization in 1st gear	Manual gearbox with all gears synchronized, overdrive option	Same as Mk3	Same as Mk2
Bumper	Chrome	Chrome	Chrome	Black rubber (Rubber Bumper)
Table of Instruments	Lever type switches, large speedometer and tachometer	Rocker switches, more modern gauges	Design similar to Mk2	Matte black finish frame, no chrome
Electrical system	2 x 6V batteries (12V system)	A single 12V battery is introduced	Same as Mk2	Same as Mk2
Suspension	Original configuration, standard height	Same as Mk1	Same as Mk2	Elevated suspension (complies with U.S. regulations)

History of MG B (1962-1980)

Origins and Development

In the late 1950s, MG (Morris Garages), which was part of the British Motor Corporation (BMC) conglomerate, began work on the successor to the MG A. Although the MG A had been a success, its separate chassis design and outdated mechanics made it less competitive against models such as the Triumph TR3 or the Italian sports cars of the time.

The aim of the new model, the MG B, was to offer a more modern car, with better road holding, greater comfort and safety, but without losing the sporty and accessible spirit that had characterized MG since its foundation.

Innovative Design and Technology

The MG B introduced an important novelty for the brand: a monocoque body instead of a separate chassis. This gave it several advantages:
✅ Greater structural rigidity, improving stability and handling.
✅ Less weight, which favored agility.
✅ Better protection in case of impact, something uncommon in small sports cars of the time.

The exterior design maintained elegant and classic lines, but with improved aerodynamics compared to the MGA.

First Generation (1962-1967) – The Birth of a Classic

The MG B debuted in 1962 exclusively in roadster version (convertible).

Mechanics and performance

1.8L (1798 cc) inline 4-cylinder engine with 95 hp.
0-100 km/h in 11 seconds, a respectable figure for its time.
4-speed manual gearbox (with overdrive option in 3rd and 4th gear).
Maximum speed: approximately 170 km/h.
Independent front suspension with coil springs and rigid rear axle with leaf springs.
Front disc brakes (unusual for a car in its class in the 1960s).

The combination of its low weight (about 920 kg) and its mechanical configuration allowed it to offer agile and sporty handling, with precise steering and great cornering balance.

Since its launch, the MG B was a commercial success, especially in the United States, where most of the units were sold.

MGB GT (1965-1980) – The Coupe Designed by Pininfarina

In 1965, the MGB GT version was introduced, with a fastback body design developed by the Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina.

Features of the MGB GT

2+2 configuration, with a small rear seat.
Rigid roof, which gave it greater structural rigidity.
Same 1.8L engine, but with improved aerodynamics, giving it a higher top speed than the roadster.

The MGB GT became a more practical option, offering the same sporty spirit of the roadster, but with better weather protection and a small trunk accessible from the tailgate.

Second Series (1967-1974) – Evolution and Technical Improvements

At the end of the 1960s, the MG B received several improvements:
✅ 1968: A new gearbox with synchromesh in first gear was introduced.
✅ 1970: New grille design and improved instrumentation.
✅ 1971-1972: Interior changes, with a safer padded dashboard to comply with safety regulations.

Although the mechanics remained largely unchanged, U.S. emissions regulations began to affect engine power, progressively reducing it in exported models.

MGB GT V8 (1973-1976) – More Power with the Rover Engine

In 1973, MG launched an even more exciting version: the MGB GT V8, which was equipped with a 3.5-liter Rover V8 engine with 137 hp.

Features of the MGB GT V8

Only available in GT (coupe) bodywork.
Lighter engine than the original, despite its larger size (aluminum block).
0-100 km/h in 8 seconds, much faster than the standard model.
Better dynamic behavior and impressive sound.

However, production of the GT V8 was limited, and it was never officially available in the U.S. due to emissions regulations.

Last Generation (1974-1980) – The “Rubber Bumper” Era

In 1974, US safety regulations forced MG to redesign the MGB. The distinctive black rubber bumpers (“rubber bumpers”) were introduced, replacing the classic chrome bumpers to meet low-speed impact requirements.

Changes in Rubber Bumper models

❌Suspension height raised, negatively affecting handling.
❌ Loss of power due to emissions regulations (U.S. models went from 95 hp to 62 hp in some cases).

✅ Despite the changes, sales remained good until the end of production in 1980.

MGB Advertising: How MG Promoted its Sports Icon

When the MGB debuted in 1962, MG not only offered an affordable and agile car, but also deployed a clever advertising campaign to capture the attention of British sports car enthusiasts.

1. Modern Design and Sporty Elegance

Advertisements at the time emphasized the MGB’s design as a leap forward over its predecessor, the MGA. They highlighted its more aerodynamic lines, its monocoque bodywork (new for the brand) and its refined interior. Images of men in aviator glasses and elegant women behind the wheel reinforced the idea that the MGB was not just a sports car, but a lifestyle.

Performance and Driving Sensations

MG’s “Safety Fast!” slogan remained the centerpiece of its advertising, conveying the idea of an agile, yet safe sports car. It highlighted features such as:

1.8L engine with 95 hp, enough to reach 170 km/h.
Refined suspension, with a comfortable ride without losing the sporty essence.
Precise steering, which made you feel every curve of the road.

The ads featured the MGB on winding roads or in relaxed driving scenarios, evoking the pleasure of driving a British convertible.

3. Durability and Daily Use

Unlike other sports cars of the time, MG emphasized in its advertising that the MGB was not only a car for the weekend, but could be used on a daily basis. Its low fuel consumption and affordable maintenance were mentioned, comparing it to more expensive options from Italian brands.

4. The GT Variant: “The Sportsman with a Trunk”.

In 1965, the arrival of the MGB GT brought a new line of advertisements highlighting its versatility. MG promoted this version as the “sports coupe with practicality”, highlighting the extended cargo space and its Pininfarina-designed roof. The advertising sought to attract drivers who wanted a fun car, but without sacrificing functionality.

5. U.S. Advertising: The Charm of the British Roadster

MG understood that its biggest market was the United States, and advertising there focused on the exclusivity of driving a European sports car. Images of the MGB were shown with Californian palm trees in the background or on coastal roads, appealing to the idea of European freedom and sophistication.

Conclusion

The MGB established itself as an icon not only for its design and performance, but also for a well-directed advertising strategy. Its ads evoked adventure, accessibility and style, making it one of the best-selling British sports cars in history. Advertising campaigns often reflect the values and social patterns of each era, and here is no exception. Some of these ads would probably not be published in today’s era (year 2025), but they are interesting to see nonetheless.

Be that as it may, if you had been a prospective buyer in the 1960s or 1970s, would MG’s advertising have convinced you to buy an MGB? And if you were, were you seduced by the model?🚗💨

The Legacy of the MGB

The MGB not only represented the evolution of MG, but marked an era in automotive history.

It is an icon of British motoring. Throughout its almost two decades of production, it evolved without losing its essence: an accessible, elegant and fun to drive sports car.

Its simple design, reliability and timeless appeal have made it a beloved classic among collectors and enthusiasts. To this day, it remains an icon of British engineering and a key model in the history of affordable sports cars.

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