Lot 147 - 1964 MG B Roadster
| Lot Number | 147 |
| Registration | APO 677B |
| Chassis Number | GHN3/32967 |
| Engine Number | 18GAUH8287 |
| Odometer reading | 96,100 miles |
| Estimate | £17,000 - £21,000 |
Conceived in the late 1950s and launched in 1962, the MGB would turn out to be one of the most successful sports cars of all time. Attractively styled, cheap to run and easily maintained by the home mechanic, the 'B' carried on MG's traditional role of providing affordable, sports car motoring for the ordinary enthusiast. The MGB was mechanically similar to the preceding MGA, though with heavier, unitary construction bodyshell. To compensate for the newcomer's increased weight, the existing B-Series engine was stretched from 1622 to 1798cc, while the MGB's aerodynamically efficient lines made the most of the maximum available 95bhp to achieve a top speed which just topped the magic 'ton'. A 'right first time' design that changed little over the years apart from the adoption of a more robust five-main-bearing engine in 1965 (fitted from the start of GT production that autumn) a minor facelift for 1970 and the adoption of plastic bumpers (to comply with US legislation) for 1975, the 'B' enjoyed an 18-year production life and sales totalling in excess of 500,000 cars. Its popularity remaining undiminished today, the classic MGB is one of the easiest sports cars of its era to run and maintain in the 21st Century, being served by a worldwide industry of spare parts and service providers.
A desirable chromed bumper model, this particular 'B' roadster has had just three owners from new; the last being a private collector who purchased the car a couple of years ago and the first owner, we are told, bought the car as a wedding anniversary gift for his wife. Subsequently consigned to barn storage, it was fully restored to mint condition by a family friend between 2007 and 2009, with further works undertaken in 2015. Finished in black with red leather trim, noteworthy features include original restored Jaeger instruments, original Bakelite steering wheel and 'bullet' wing mirrors. This MG B Roadster is supplied with a V5C registration document, an MoT test certificate which expires in February 2019 and sundry other restoration invoices. 'APO 677B' has covered only some 5,000 miles since restoration and is described as a pleasure to drive. The MG B represents fabulous value in today's market and enjoys excellent club support, specialist services and parts back up; a motor car just awaiting a new owner to enjoy forthcoming summers.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.