1967 MGB Roadster | Projects

1967 MGB Roadster

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The Project

This 1967 MGB Roadster arrived into Carrosserie HQ in January 2024. Main works to this iconic British classic include an engine overhaul, crank regrind and bearings replaced, then it will be reassembled.

Updates

8th February 2024: The engine has been repaired/tested and is running well. It’s currently being re-installed into the car.

24th February 2024: The engine has been overhauled and is running nicely. It’s been out for a road test and is now ready for the owner to collect.

History

Enthusiasts will need little in the way of introduction to one of the most affordable and popular cars on the classic scene. Launched in 1962 to replace the MGA, the MGB proved to be an instant hit, and with monocoque construction it was a much more modern affair. The roadster appeared first, with the GT arriving in 1965 with its neat Pininfarina styling that blended sporting looks with useful practicality.

All were powered by the durable four-cylinder B-Series engine (plus a Rover V8 from 1973, although we’ll save that for another time) and while there were numerous rivals – including the likes of the Triumph TR4 and Sunbeam Alpine – few could match the overall usability and driver appeal of this newest MG. We’re concentrating here on the chrome-bumpered B that, with various detail changes, was produced until 1975 when it was transformed into the somewhat divisive ‘rubber bumper’ model that ultimately lasted through to 1980.

Essentially, the MGB makes as much sense as it’s always done. Perfect for seasoned owners or beginners alike, it’s a classic that appeals on so many levels and one that deserves every bit of its enduring popularity.

What buyers should know

Bodywork

For a car that appears so compact and simple, a B can harbour a multitude of corrosion-related sins, so don’t be swayed by a shiny exterior. Rust can fester deep within the structure, requiring major surgery, and the cost of such work will far outstrip the value. Plenty have been restored already, of course, although you’ll need to establish the quality of the work as low values led to more than a few examples being bodged over the years.

Engine and transmission

The B-Series engine is a tough old thing and the five-bearing version fitted from 1964 is notably more robust. They’ll soldier on with even a modicum of regular maintenance and a DIY rebuild is straightforward

Suspension, steering and brakes

The simplicity of the MGB extended to the suspension with coil springs and wishbones up front, a live axle with leaf springs and lever arm dampers all round. As long as the mounting points haven’t succumbed to corrosion it’s just a case of checking for perished wishbone bushes and for springs and dampers that have succumbed to age. Replacement parts are cheap and readily available.

Interior, trim and electrics

Another part of the MGB’s appeal lies in the comfortable and reasonably spacious cabin, and with a sound driving position it makes for a very useable classic. There’s not much to concern potential buyers here, and everything is available if refurbishment is needed.

Affordable, fun to drive and simple to maintain, it’s easy to see why the B remains so hugely popular with enthusiasts of all ages. That it benefits from the sort of specialist and club support that many classic car owners can only dream of is the icing on the cake, and it means that you can buy one safe in the knowledge that you’ll not struggle for help and advice.

Friendly, helpful, extremely knowledgeable, patient enough to explain the processes and reasons for doing things and highlighted even more how approachable the team are. They tried to accommodate our needs and requests to get our beloved old riley back on the road as soon as possible despite the ups and downs that were thrown our way and into the teams path! We could not have wished to deal with a more personable company after encountering some other teams that really made a botch of stuff, seemed uncommitted and were not professional at all. Carrosserie as a team were totally the opposite . . would we recommend them ? ABSOLUTELY !!! We would not go anywhere else now, THANK YOU TO Steve, Neil, Graham and Nicola . . Oh and Karen who spilled the beans about the the birthday surprised to my partner (whose car it is ) . but made the experience all the more special when a bottle of wine was presented as well as a treat to Simon for his birthday AND made it all the more worth dealing with the team ! THANK YOU AGAIN !!!

My car was the subject of some body and paint repairs here in Spring 2024, to address corrosion plus some substandard paintwork. An annual service was also carried out. There was good responsive communications, advice, and attention to detail throughout, to ensure a high quality, durable result, with the final paintwork being indistinguishable from factory finish, and easily better than any franchised dealership repairs. If you are invested in your classic car, want to make it last, with an exemplary finish to be proud of, then you need look no further.

I can't recommend Carrosserie highly enough, the service was exemplary from start to finish and the workmanship is second to none. I highly recommend giving the team a call for any work you need doing to your classic car, no matter what it is, you will not be disappointed!