Offered for sale a 1966 Red MGB Roadster. The car odometer shows 97,071 miles, drives well and has been maintained original, but has no supporting documents on miles due to a divorce sale. This is the best series of MGB to own. It’s performance is pure as first designed and the experience is not diluted by extra weight the later models gained. Styling is not cluttered by extra marker lights and bulkier interior fitting. Pure form and functional interior combined with simplicity of mechanicals. This particular car was sold new in California and we obtained it from an owner in southern Oregon. It is rust-free and has never been exposed to salt. This car was always red as the original finish under hood will attest to. The car retains its original alloy hood since it has not ever been severely damaged by accident. This MGB was refinished about 8 years ago and received a high quality respray that is smooth including in the jambs. When looking closely, the car shows that it has always been properly cared for and has not suffered from amateur mechanics nor capricious modifications. We have done a full inspection and the mechanicals check out well. Should be ready for top off touring and local shows.
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.
