Special thanks to Thomas for these pictures!

dc

$160,000

Sports Cars Shop has available a spectacularly restored Abarth Zagato Double Bubble Coupe. We acquired the car out of Vancouver BC approximately three years ago. We were attracted to this example because of the Zagato alloy coachwork and the original early Canadian race history that is nicely documented with period photos. Fortunately after it’s race career was over the subsequent owners loved the car. The original matching number 750cc Abarth engine with its special steel crank, optional Abarth alloy oil pan, and most other rare Abarth components was retired worn, but intact.

We sold this car to a knowledgeable collector in California who had a specific vision for the car. His mandate was to return the car to factory specs using all the original components we had for the car. The car was to be assembled with perfect mechanicals and the original components as it was raced in the late 50′s and early 60′s. We were to include the documented special dual braking system as fitted by the first owner. All interior components that could be salvaged were to be reinstalled and returned to the original color. The half dozen cardboard boxes of components we received with the car were invaluable in allowing us to complete this early, small taillight car with most all its original components. Every component found it those boxes were assessed for originality and installed back on the car. Even the original headliner was found and reunited with the interior. While not flawless, it was the one cut and originally fitted in Italy and deserved to be returned to the alloy roof. The door panels are also the originals and care was taken to preserve the original door pocket fabric.

Rather than refinish or wholesale replace all the exterior trim to perfection, the car was to retain all its original components, age spots and all. They were to be installed with the minor dings, scratches and signs of a life well lived. The deep scuff marks on the special Zagato door handle fitted to the passenger door can still testify to the day the car rolled onto the passenger side during competition at a racetrack in mid Canada. The fact the car was rolled was a total surprise until we stripped the entire car of paint. It explained the reason why the front windscreen was Plexiglas, not glass like an original windscreen. Since we could not refit our new glass windscreen, the race damage and typical corrosion necessitated a full body restoration. All body panels were removed and metal finished inside and out. New original floor pans were fitted and no body component was left unattended. Stripping the body did lead to a pleasant surprise. The original color was discovered on the interior of a rear inner fender panel. We had paint color matched to it and refinished the car to this lovely factory blue. If you have ever visited Italy this color combination of medium blue with red interior would make sense and is a nice change from the ubiquitous red sports car. Since the investment of over 1,000 man hours, the body is now straightened and metal finished. No body filler is present on the alloy panels and the inside of every panel is as smooth as the outer panel. There is not a better Abarth Zagato alloy body out there.

These lovely diminutive alloy bodied coupes rarely survive intact with all their trim and bumpers. This particular car has traveled thru six decades from when it was built, yet retained it’s original Abarth engine and transaxle, and even the original exhaust header and muffler. It also still has its original data plate, original badges, bumpers, and trim, as it left the Abarth factory in Corsa Marce. This Double Bubble Zagato alloy body has been proven by time to be the most recognized and sought after shape from the house of Zagato. One look at the lines and you will recognize that this Fiat Abarth Zagato is the original design and is a little brother to the ultra rare Aston Martin DB4 Zagato.

The mechanicals received the same attention as the body. Each component was cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt or replaced as needed. The engine is now a working jewel. It has the proper specification Abarth ported cylinder head fitted with larger valves and hard seats. It is also fitted with custom 9.5:1 JE forged pistons, an original Abarth 30-70 grind cam, and new special uprated rods. The Abarth spec Weber carb and Abarth hand fabricated intake and exhaust, are fitted and make the engine perform and sound as it should. The transaxle was rebuilt and retains the special Abarth final drive and Abarth close ratio gears. All new bearings, syncros, and a new first gear were fitted during the overhaul. All the suspension was rebushed, all axles were wet magnufluxed for cracks and new bearings installed. All brake components were replaced or re-sleeved and rebuilt. An expensive set of original Koni shocks were sourced and installed to complete the return the chassis to its competition specification. The wheels are all the rare and correct 12 inch seven vents type and are fitted with proper sized tires.

This 1240lb Abarth Zagato was dominant in its 750 race class due to the very special chassis and drive train components Abarth developed and attached to the pedestrian Fiat 600 underpinnings. It proved itself on racetracks around the world from Sebring to Nurburgring. The components Abarth developed made him an equal to Porsche and Ferrari as an engineering genius. Although Carlo Abarth is not well known in the US, Abarths won more races in Europe than any other manufacturer in the 50′s and 60′s.

If you have been following the collector car market you will notice that any alloy bodied Zagato cars from the 50′s and early 60′s are the most sought after. Due to the small displacement and difficulties of obtaining parts in the pre internet 60′s, nearly none of these Abarths have survived with a matching number engine and trans axle. This Abarth Zagato car comes with a file of its history, and a file of hundreds of photos and documentation of its full restoration and cannot be duplicated at the reasonable price of $160,000USD.

We have nearly 1300 images detailing the restoration of this car, available on request for serious inquiries.

$24500

Interior:

This MGA is fitted with a stunning interior. The leather seats are comfortable and have a proper patina free of flaws. The carpets are new, wool type, well-padded and nicely installed. The under carpet at the transmission has been padded with a thermal heat barrier. The headliner is new and the white color makes the interior feel more spacious. The original dash was sent to Madera Concepts to have a stunning book matched walnut veneer installed and then finished like fine furniture. The real wood steering wheel complements the dash and is a pleasure to hold. The interior looks even better in person.

Mechanicals:

All mechanical work was done in our shop, no expense spared. Approximately $20,000 was spent to make this the best equipped MGA coupe. MGB five main engine bored +40 balanced, fitted with large intake valves and a mild camshaft that has been degreed for best performance. The transmission is a 5-speed full syncro overdrive on top gear. Front suspension is all new including shocks and disc brakes. The diff is a rebuilt 3:90 unit. All brake and clutch hydraulics were replaced with new cylinders and hoses. Radiator has been upgraded and car runs cool even on hot days. Starts, runs and drives very smoothly and as a bonus it is very quiet at cruising speeds. All dash controls and gauges work.

Body, Paint and Chrome:

Body is very solid and has no signs of serious accident damage or rust. The chrome is good to excellent, with only a minor dent on the l/h front bumper. Paint work is a nice warm shade of white and is smooth and glossy. The chassis is very straight and solid. Glass is all good. The doors close well and panel gaps are all good.

Wheels and Tires:

New 15X6 Superlite alloy wheels with 195/60 tires. Approximately 3,000 miles on set. The true and well balanced wheels make for some smooth driving and excellent cornering.

Driving Impressions:

This car is a pleasure to drive. It starts easily, has excellent power, and retains a nice steady idle. The five speed transmission is effortless to shift, makes the car quiet, and really performs well. The interior view from the driver’s seat is great and the dash gives a sense of richness that nothing short of a Jaguar can match. This car is comfortable to drive and performs way above a regular MGA. A car good for years of reliable touring, and is a great alternative to a Porsche 356 coupe. This is a wonderful car to tour or rally.

We are reluctantly offering our personal 1963 Porsche 356B for sale. This is the desirable T6 body with the outside fuel filler door. It is not a factory Super 90 but will outperform one. VIN is 212823 and engine number is P610094. We have run out of storage space for our collection and refuse to leave this car outside. This car has been totally reliable, always starts and has lots of power and torque with an uprated 1720 piston kit on the original block and crank. The car is still fitted with the original Zenith carbs, yet has more power and flexibility than any stock S90 motor. Great performance that is balanced to the cars chassis. We have enjoyed this car for the last 2 years since we acquired it from a prior owner who did a wonderful job preserving it through 28 years of his ownership. He never drove it in rain and stored it in a garage while not being used. It has only had 3-4 owners from new including us. This is as close to a rust free, damage free 356 as you could find. It retains all its original floor pans and the rest of the body panels are all original to the car. The car is still finished in the original white exterior color, and has a correct and proper red interior fitted. This 356 is retains many original parts as it is not a restoration but a preserved car. It has been so well preserved that it has a patina to it that is warm and inviting. The minor chips and small flaws rather than detract from the car have given it an honest look of a well loved car.

Paint and Body:

The entire body is excellent with all original panels. The panel fit is great and shows how well the factory original assembled these cars. Both the doors close well. The front hood is undamaged. This forty eight year old Porsche 356 still has its original floor pans and they are rust and patch free. The jack points are all solid. The bottoms of the doors are perfect. The front battery box area is still solid. There are no signs of any serious body damage ever and all the body seams are clean and survived well, since car was always in California and Oregon. It lived quietly in a garage most all of its life. This car has some original paint, and areas that have been refinished. It is difficult to tell which is which. The overall paint looks very even in color and finish, and more important period correct look to it. The creamy white paint (Code 6207) has a rich looking subdued glow that is the opposite of the wet shiny modern base coat clear coat finishes of today. Chrome is original and in good condition. The S90 badge on the engine cover was added by a prior owner. This is not a factory S90, but performs even better than the real one we sold a few months ago.

Mechanicals:

The car retains the original engine that has been rebuilt with uprated 1720 piston and liner kit and S-90 cam grind. This engine is smoke free, always starts, and uses no oil at all. The added displacement and resulting low end torque makes the car a joy to drive. The gearbox was also overhauled so shifts well up and down thru the gears. The mechanicals have 10,000 miles or less on them according to the prior owner who had the work done. The steering is light and responsive. The clutch is good and engages smoothly. The car has aftermarket wider chrome wheels, but retains its original date coded spare fitted with an old Continential tire.

Interior:

The interior was redone with proper materials and patterns in the original factory delivered red color. It is in excellent condition and the seats are very comfortable. The dash is still good original paint and with an aftermarket radio fitted in the 70′s with no modifications made to the dash. All door panels were replaced with the rest of the interior. The headliner is white, clean and the original pattern. It looks too good to be original but may be original. The sun visors are original.

Driving Impressions:

The car starts easily even if left for a month. It performs better than any stock 356, the Zenith carbs preserve the low end flexibility and still allow the car to reach redline with no fuss. The only modifications to the car were the increase in displacement, and the wider chrome wheels. The added displacement and super 90 cam make the engine rev freely and accelerate the car with little effort. The car drives straight and effortlessly, and will cruise all day at 75- 80 mph. It is a joy to drive on curvy roads and covering hundreds of miles in a day does not leave you tired at all. We have done fluid changes and major tune and valve adjust while we have had the car. We drove this car to Crater Lake on the weekend after we acquired it and never missed a beat all 385 miles we put on it that weekend. If you are looking for a solid, well preserved car that can be used as is and will get admiring looks from all that see it, this is your car. The car is never been scattered to pieces so has great integrity and not an over restored trailer queen and you will not be afraid to go out and drive it.

This is the tool to have in SCCA T1! $85,000.

$85,000

Spares List:
3 sets Forgeline wheels
3 rear bumper covers (2 are carbon/kevlar)
1 front bumper
1 transmission (Rod shifter type)
1 brand new Tilton 3 disc carbon clutch complete. (Clutch in car is the same and has 1.5 hrs. on it)
2 Radiators
1 wheel bearing
1 front shock
1 pair “Cup” exhaust headers (RSR headers on car now with custom Flowmaster muffler and removable noise inserts)
1 new Tilton slave cylinder
1 set rain tires
1 set lightly used DOT racing slicks
2 sets lightly used Yokohama racing slicks
1 set brand new DOT racing slicks
Many brake pads new and used
Various brake parts
Suspension control arms
Engine mounts
Radiator ducting
Cooling pipes
Cooling system bleed kit
Wheel nuts
Suspension springs

Offered for sale is a 1967 Austin Healey 3000 BJ8. This is the last year for the 3000 with the desirable front and rear dual marker lights. It has been refinished in an attractive silver with black coves. The chrome wire wheels complement the paintwork. The interior is perfect and freshly done in original materials and patterns. We have recently serviced the car for the owner. It has excellent mechanicals and performs as it should so is ready to drive and enjoy. The car is fairly priced and is a good deal for the final year big Healey.

Mechancials:

The car was fitted with a complete new wiring harness during its restoration. The engine has excellent compression and oil pressure, is quiet and has excellent power output. An alloy valve cover and polished carb dashpots brighten up the engine bay. The transmission is quiet and shifts well. The overdrive is engages on third and fourth gear as it should. The brakes stop quickly and straight. The suspension is tight and the car tracks straight. A nice driving vintage car with the three liter six cylinder developing plenty of power.

Paint and Body:

The car has an older respray in basecoat clear that while not new, has excellent shine and eye appeal. There are a few minor chips and scratches from use, but overall still presents very well. The chassis rails are straight, floors are solid and the car drives true down the road. While the body panels themselves are good, the panel fit is just average. The chrome is all good, a combination of some original and new where needed. The car is finished to a nice driver level standard, so no fear to use it daily.

Interior and Top:

Brand new interior in the proper patterns and materials. This interior was just done and was installed by a high end shop that knows how these cars should fit. The overall fit and finish is on par with most show cars. The burled wood dash sets off the black interior. The top is also new and well fitted. Even the top boot and tonneau cover are with the car. The trunk interior is finished in the proper hardura material. Not much to fault in this area and a very expensive high quality job was done. A period correct Motolita wood steering wheel has been installed in place of the spindly original plastic unit..

Driving Impressions:

The car starts and runs smoothly with the BJ8 two inch carb set. It has excellent power and the transmission is quiet in first gear and downshifts properly. The steering is accurate and light at speed. It is smooth to drive at highway speeds and with overdrive makes it cruise along at a relaxed rpm. The clutch engagement is even and the brakes stop the car well. Overall this is a nice driving car and a fun to drive car.

Summation:

This is a nice driver level car that should be a reliable and fun car into the future. The BJ8 is the most sought after as it has a real elegant wood dash, roll up windows and an easy top operate top. 1967 is the very last year it could be produced. The interior and soft parts are freshly done so the car has great eye appear. If you are looking for a reasonably priced solid Healey 3000 to use this should do it.

Mechanicals:

Excellent condition throughout since we just completed a major engine out service including tune up, valve adjustment, new clutch and flywheel, intake seals, plug wires, distributor belt, drive belts and engine seals as needed. Work just completed was comprehensive and cost more than $7,800. The owner wanted it to be in top condition and did all updates and service work that others would have skipped. We can supply a full list with invoice. This is how you want to buy a Porsche 911: a west coast car with current service records.

Interior:

Interior is excellent condition with no tears cracks or stains. The seats have been re-dyed to original color and are in excellent condition. Headliner is excellent and the carpets are good. The interior presents as a much lower miles car would and the seats are comfortable to sit in. The light color makes this Porsche feel bright and spacious.

Body and Paint:

Excellent condition with great factory produced panel fit. No major damage apparent. No rust ever and of course no rust repairs. Very good paint with great shine and finish, and it appears to be original paint. The entire body has only a couple door dings and minor rock chips. Presents well and shows the car has lived a pampered life. All trim is in very good condition. The wheels are stock, but polished. They are in good condition with the exception of minor scuffs from curb contact while parking. Front tires are brand new and the rears are excellent.

Driving Impressions:

Starts and runs very smoothly. Clutch engages smoothly and the power is linear and pulls all the way to redline. The transmission shifts smoothly when warm and the performance is as the factory intended. All the systems on the car are working well and this car is a joy to drive. The suspension is excellent and drives as you would expect a stock Porsche to drive. The four wheel drive portion functions well and inconspicuously. The added safety of this feature allows for aggressive driving, and makes average drivers feel like experts.

Summation:

Great color combination on this car shows off the lines. If you are looking for a classic air-cooled 911, this would be an excellent choice. The 3.6 liter engine is proven to be very reliable. Porsche’s change to coil springs was a major improvement to controlling the rear suspension and make the handling more predictable. For a vintage car these are still ones that require little sacrifice in creature comfort while providing maximum enjoyment. The car is fitted with air conditioning that works and power windows and mirrors. This car shows how proper long-term care allows a 21 year old car to look and drive like new. The current owner of the car was willing to invest so the next owner can enjoy the car and buy with confidence. You will be hard pressed to find a better 911 on the market with current services done.

The car is powered by a 4.5 litre twin turbocharged BMW four cam engine that was developed by Cosworth for this car. It produces 350 horsepower along with 420 ft-lbs of torque to keep this luxury car from being just good looking. The seats front and rear are adjustable to be comfortable for people of all sizes. The interior is solid leather everywhere including the matching headliner. Polished wood complements the leather everywhere and sets off the rear metal chromed switches and trim. There is a new set of sheepskin floor mats still in the trunk along with the o.e. equipment Bentley umbrellas.

The car has impeccable history, was purchased with just 4,000 miles about 4 years ago. This Bentley has been well taken care of and enjoyed by the present owner. He has had it recently serviced by the Bentley dealer in Seattle and is mechanically and cosmetically excellent. This Bentley Arnage had a MSRP of over $203,000 in 1999. It still looks and drives as new and is available to one lucky buyer for a mere $49,500. We are realistic on our pricing for this fine automobile so please be reasonable and do not lowball us or ask if we take Harleys in trade on this fine car. If you are looking for a car that has timeless styling and will provide years of service you can call Bob @ 541-543-6791 to purchase it.

Mechanicals:

This MGB appears to retain its original 5 main engine. The engine starts well, is quiet, and holds excellent oil pressure. While we have no service records with the car due to a prior divorce it has 150 lbs compression in all cylinders and holds 60 lbs oil press warm on highway. We did reseal some typical oil leaks so it should provide years of service. The transmission is the original non-syncro first type which remains quiet in all gears. It will even downshift smoothly into second gear when requested so it must have been fitted with the factory updated steel syncro. Brakes, suspension, shocks and other components are also in good shape and appear to have been well maintained.

Body and Paint:

Refinished very well in a base-coat with clear over a very solid body. There are no real signs of masking or over spray so shows this car was properly done. It has been painted for about 8 years and still looks very bright and fresh. Chrome is all good and other than us replacing the slightly dented front bumper guard, nothing is needed. This car appears it has never been hit in the front so the all-important alloy hood is still in place and the chassis is straight as the day it was built. Windscreen and all glass are good. The chassis is very straight and has not suffered from exposure to rust or any major accident damage in its life. The floors and sills are original and will not need any attention due to the mild climate and great care this car received. The early cars like this, due to their age and the fact that most were used as a primary vehicle, are difficult to find in this nice a condition.

Wheels and Tires:

It is fitted with a set of four new chrome wire wheels with 185/70 14 tires that have 90% tread remaining. These new wheels add eye appeal and also make the car very smooth at highway speeds.

Top and Interior:

The top is black vinyl and is in excellent condition with only a few minor scuffs on the rear window from storing. The top fits very well. It is the original stow away style and the bows have been refinished in the proper dove grey color. I prefer the proper MGB roadster look this factory top gives the car. The interior is very attractive original black with red piping combination. The panels appear original and are excellent for their 45 years of life and indicate how well this car was taken care of throughput it life. Seats are the original vintage low back style fitted to 1967 and earlier MGB’s. They are in good condition and sit well. The desirable metal dash is in original finish, with no extra holes cut into it and only a few age related marks around the ignition lock area from keys rubbing. Carpets have been replaced of course and are in good condition. A tonneau cover is with the car for use when the top is down.

Driving Impressions:

The car starts easily with the manual choke. The engine runs quiet and smoothly even while pulling to redline. The clutch engages smoothly and when the transmission is engaged it is very quiet for this early straight cut 1st gear transmission type. All the shocks keep the wheels properly planted and are not harsh riding. The car responds to all input in a very nice linear fashion so makes driving the car enjoyable and relaxing. Acceleration is good for a vintage 95 hp 1800cc engine. These early cars do provide more interior room due to the smaller transmission tunnel, less bulky dash arrangement, and not overly padded seats. I always prefer the lighter driving feel of these first series cars and find they are more rewarding to drive than the later slightly heavier models that followed. This car will cruise comfortable at 70 mph so is good on freeway, but really comes alive on the two lane back roads. It would be hard to find a better driving early MGB.

Summation:

Very hard to find vintage MG that will give years more of reliable service. This is the purest, best version of the MGB line and sure to gain value in the future with collectors. This MG could be used as a daily driver. It will attract admirers parked or driving. Overall a very honest and nice vintage car that shows the love and care it has received.

I took a bunch of snapshots during the Sunday afternoon race and the best 3 got turned into some HD wallpapers. Shoot me an email if you’d like a full size copy.

dc, webmaster

MECHANICALS:

The mechanicals are all solid and function well. The car looks to be very intact and unmolested. It even has all its heater boxes and controls in place underneath. The engine has 155 lbs compression and is quiet running. This car has been fitted with a pair of Weber carbs and they make it pull strong off the line. The brakes are solid and the gearbox shifts well. All the suspension is in good condition and new shocks have been fitted so it drives down the road nicely. We do not have the original Zenith carbs and air cleaners, but other than that all else is as it came from the factory. This is a solid car with very few miles since early 90′s restore.

BODY:

The car makes a good impression visually with shiny red paint and original looking interior. We will try to err on the side of under-representing the car in our description. It is not a show car and upon much closer examination a few items do show. The car has been painted for 20 years or so and there are slight micro bubbles on the right rear quarter panel. Almost too small to show in pictures, but present in close examination. The hood is damaged at the right hand hinge from being closed improperly, but still shuts ok. There are a very small amount of blisters in the very front edge of the hood at very front of handle that appear to be rust. No other rust blisters are apparent on the outer body even though paint and body is 20 years old. The floors and front battery floor were replaced so they are solid. The longitudinals have a couple small patches approx 3X3 on them but are in overall sound condition. Jack points should be replaced as prior use of floor jack has moved them upward to level with the sills. The doors open and close properly and the rockers look solid. It does not appear the car was exposed to heavy salt damage, just typical body issues that arise when these cars are driven in wet weather.

INTERIOR:

Good replacement interior in original patterns. Carpets are good, the headliner is clean, and the only flaw is a minor tear approximately 2 inches at the left hand front corner. The interior smells good and the seats are comfortable. It is fitted with the period correct AM/FM radio. It has what looks to be original period seat belts.

SUMMATION:

Reasonably priced 356 Porsche are getting hard to find. The car starts, runs, and drives well. Most need full restorations or are done and very expensive as a result. This car is attractive enough to use as is and will be fun to drive. These vintage Porsches are fun to drive and have enough power to pull hills and enjoy the twisty two lane highways. Feel free to call me on my cell 541-543-6791 if interested in purchasing this 356.

The body shows no signs of damage. The frame is straight with no indications of rust or damage. The undercarriage is very well presented as indicated in the photos. It looks great, it will tour anywhere you want it to go. This MGA is appreciating with the rest in its class. Finding cars that have been in continuous use and with out abuse is very hard to do. This one while not being a show car is a competent driver that would make you proud.

Paint & Body

Panel fit is good. The doors are not perfectly aligned, but that is rare in MGAs that are driven. The red paint is enamel based and holds a decent gloss and presents well. Paint and bodywork is very attractive, done to a good, but not concourse level. Doors, bonnet, and boot all close nicely. Chrome is nice original condition.

Interior

The interior of this MGA was well done and sets off the red exterior nicely. The red leather seats look great. The carpets are of a high quality and are in nice condition. The dash appears original and the gauges/controls are well presented and sorted. The left control knob for the heater is missing and windscreen wiper is not currently working.

Engine & Transmission

A well presented engine compartment. It is well sorted and everything seems to function as it should. Equally visually striking as the rest of the car completing a well rounded and well presented MGA. Carbs were completely rebuilt by us and major tune done also. The transmission had a weak syncro in second gear so we pulled it and rebuilt the transmission. The engine performs flawlessly. It pulls hard and sounds fantastic.

The Bottom Side

No apparant rust or damage. It is straight, clean and as it should be. Correct wire wheels in good condition with correct size tires in good condition. Tread remaining is app. 85%

Summation

This MGA is a treat to drive. It accelerates quick and smooth, and moves through gears with ease. This is a trustworthy classic that catches eyes. Any MG enthusiast would be thrilled to have this one in their collection. It sounds, runs, and drives as it should. The MKII is rare and the best of the MGAs. Good MGA’s are excellent driving cars that will keep up with regular traffic and provide lots of enjoyment for the money. The classic lines and pure roadster look is hard to beat. Solid driving rust free cars are the best investment and are still going up monthly in value. This car would make a nice addition to a collection or be a great first vintage car to use on car tours.

Interior:

New seats covers, carpets and headliner are in original patterns. Gauges work and dash still finished in original Sky Blue paint, all is very tidy and has a radio blanking plate fitted. Seats look great, but seat recliner mechanism on seat backrest has been welded so will not adjust rake.

Mechanicals:

Engine starts easily, runs smoothly and is very quiet mechanically. Clutch is newer and engages smoothly, the power is very good. Gearbox has good syncros and differential is without any noises. You can tell the car has not been abused of run hard. All brake calipers were rebuilt 8-10 years ago. Owner says the engine is original to the car and was rebuilt by his Uncle in the past. Unfortunately no receipts are available as the car’s file could not be located in the estate. The car is fitted with engine # P711043 and the owner states it has all its original mechanical components, but no COA has ever been applied for due to the low number of owners.

Paint, Body, and Chrome:

The paint is fresh and was done complete with the windows out and the rubber trim, and door seals were replaced during the refinish. It is very smoothly applied. The body needed a minimal amount of bodywork from just minor parking lot dents and dings. This 356 appears to have all original body panels, the front hood at the hinges is undamaged. All the floor pans are original and very solid. The front battery tray was professionally replaced due to common battery acid damage. The windshield has been replaced with a new one when the car was apart for paint so is pit free. Chrome is all good and the body panel fit is nice. While not a concours car, it is a very good looking driver. Wheels are all original painted type and all including the spare are date coded 8/63. The engine bay is not detailed, but original. Original carbs and air cleaners.

Driving Impressions:

Car feels very solid and goes down the highway very straight. The front suspension has been redone and the kingpins have been replaced. Has excellent power and flexibility from the 75 HP engine. All transmission gears are quiet and it shifts easily up and down. Has a nice cohesive feel overall, and will comfortably cruise at highway speed. Feels like a lower miles car and is fun to drive.

Summation:

This is the desirable 356C that is fitted with four wheel disc brakes. It was produced in the rare and attractive Sky Blue color and will stand out at any car gathering. It has a known history and has never been exposed to salt. This is a nice driver level car in above average condition. With minor engine bay detailing would present well anywhere. Very reasonably priced for the model and history. We suggest you do not wait to bid as it may be sold before auction end. Feel free to call Bob at 541-543-6791 if any questions.

BODYWORK AND CHASSIS:

Paint work is just fair as it has cracks, chips, and general old age issues. Looks good from 20ft. The car is rust free and the bonnet and all important front sub frames are in very good shape. The floors are very good and the only sign of body filler looks to be on the driver’s rear quarter panel near the door. Wire wheels have surface rust on them, but a new set is only $1600 if desired.

ENGINE:

The car is still fitted with a 4.2 liter engine but it is not original to the car. The engine starts and runs well, does not smoke, and is very dry with good oil pressure. It does have some internal rattle that is audible. Possible lower timing chain or piston slap, but has not gotten any louder in the last 100 miles. It should be considered a good candidate for an overhaul as we cannot predict how long it will last; could be thousands of miles or hundreds, so we would not advise driving cross country.

BRAKES AND CLUTCH:

This E-Type was fitted with new brake servo, slave master, and reaction valves. The entire system was flushed along with new brake flex lines installed. The calipers are leak free and work well. Even the handbrake works.. The clutch master, slave and flex hoses were replaced with new parts. The clutch engages smoothly and has plenty of grip.

FUEL SYSTEM:

The entire fuel system has been flushed, cleaned, and a new O.E. fuel pump installed. The carbs were removed, cleaned, and properly adjusted. A major tune up was done and the car starts easily and runs with good power output.

EXHAUST:

The car is fitted with a Bell full stainless steel exhaust system. It has a nice deep tone and shows very well.

COOLING SYSTEM:

The engine has received all new cooling hoses, hose clamps, and a rebuilt water pump. The radiator was removed, rodded out, and new thermostat installed. To complete the cooling system the typically rusty heater transfer pipes located in the bulkhead were replaced with stainless pipes.

ELECTRICAL:

The car does not have any of the typical electrical issues. New battery of course. All the lights work inside and out, the gauges all function, and even the Smiths clock keeps time.

Summation:

The car starts, runs, and drives well, and has covered about 100 miles since being made road ready. The clutch works well and the transmission shifts smoothly through all gears. Differential is very quiet. The car has nearly no oil leaks. This is a chance to get an E-Type convertible at an entry level price. As you can tell the car has had some extensive work done and all the repairs and parts are of the highest quality. You will need to spend some more elbow grease on it, but it is not a rusty hulk and could be used as-is around town and on short trips. Priced very fairly and will sell. Call Bob at 541-543-6791 (cel) if any questions.

Engine and Drivetrain:

The special engine is late five main that had a full build in our shop including alloy cross flow head and large SU carbs on a special manifold. The engine assembly complete with clutch was balanced, and the camshaft was degreed in using vernier cam gears. Of course it produces good power and revs freely. Low miles on the engine and we are very careful with assembly so it does not leak oil. Transmission is a full syncromesh type fitted with an overdrive unit to allow for relaxed highway cruising rpm. The differential is the MGB Spicer type and also has an $1800 limited slip unit fitted inside. Anti -Tramp bars are fitted below the rear springs to help put the power to the ground.

Wheels and Tires:

The wire wheels have been upgraded from the normal painted 14 inch wires to complete set of special 72 spoke 15 by 6 inch wide chrome wire wheels with stainless spokes. All wheels are as new. The tires are Bridgestone 195/60 and have nearly no wear.

Interior:

This car has the desirable metal dash and it has a beautiful interior. The seats are leather with contrasting white piping. Carpeting is high quality and well fit. Dash is attractive and all gauges are working. The fit and finish of interior panels and everywhere is excellent and will retain its beauty for years.

Body, Paint and Chrome:

The body has been slightly flared front and rear in steel and the workmanship is excellent. All the panels fit very well and are very straight and smooth. Paint is high quality, well applied, and very smooth and glossy. The color is a deep British Racing Green which complements the chrome and black interior perfectly. The paint has no real obvious flaws and everything is properly painted including jambs, under hood , and trunk. All chrome is new or excellent condition. The windscreen frame is polished to a near chrome finish and new windscreen has been fitted. Overall excellent appearance everywhere with nothing to consider changing or finishing.

Driving Impression:

This car starts easily since it is fitted with electronic ignition. The clutch engages smoothly and the engine revs nicely while acceleration is excellent. It is easy to drive and handles well with the lowered, uprated suspension and the 15X6 wire wheels. The stainless header and large bore exhaust has a nice balance between performance and tone. This is one of the most solid driving MGB’s we have had for sale. Car is very quiet and well assembled. It has benefited from the upgrades in performance. The cross drilled front rotors help stop the car true and straight. A bonus is the MG overdrive transmission which allows the car to travel down the highway relaxed and quietly.

Summation:

This car has had nothing but the best equipment and labor skills spent on it. Every component has been replaced, rebuilt or upgraded. It has equipment included that is beyond what is listed in the description. Everything on it is done to a high level and it would be hard to fault anything if you like modified MGB’s. It would take a year plus and cost $40-50,000 to duplicate this car. The car is for sale now and is very reasonably priced. Feel free to call Bob at 541-543-6791 (pacific time) if any questions.