This 1965 MGB Roadster offers a new owner a world of possibilities. After being recently revived following a thirteen-year slumber, it is a turnkey classic that offers immediate motoring enjoyment. Alternatively, it could be the foundation for a straightforward and rewarding restoration project. Its lack of significant rust would allow the buyer to take their time to decide, a fact that many might find attractive. The seller has listed the MG here on Facebook Marketplace in Shattuck, Oklahoma. With an asking price of $8,500, this little British classic is undeniably affordable.

MG introduced the MGB in 1962 as a replacement for its successful MGA. Although the company carried over many mechanical components from its predecessor, the styling was far more modern and space-efficient. This struck a chord with potential buyers, and the MGB soon developed a strong following that allowed it to remain in production until 1980. The affection for this car’s appearance was such that the Rover Group staged a revival in 1992, introducing the MG RV8. The first owner ordered our 1965 example in Vermilion, one of the most iconic shades to find its way onto these classics. The seller confirms that it recently emerged from thirteen years in storage, although its history is unclear. There is evidence in some supplied shots that it may have undergone at least a partial repaint at some point, but it remains quite presentable. However, the lack of significant panel imperfections could allow the new owner to perform a relatively straightforward cosmetic restoration. Of course, the presence of rust is always a consideration in such cases, and the news is pretty positive. The seller acknowledges the presence of a small spot in the driver’s side floor that sounds like a candidate for a patch. Otherwise, this gem is rock-solid. The soft-top frame is in good order, but the top itself is beyond salvation. Otherwise, the condition of the trim, glass, and wire wheels is acceptable for a survivor or a driver-grade restoration.

It is pretty common to find MGs of this vintage with aftermarket interior components, but this MGB retains its original AM radio and “banjo” steering wheel. The overall condition is serviceable, with no gaping holes or signs of abuse. I think that one interior shot might reveal a seam separation in the driver’s seat, but it is hard to make a definitive call. Companies like Moss Motors can be an excellent source of affordable replacement covers, which might be the only thing that this interior requires.

MG utilized the same BMC B-Series engine in the MGB that saw service in the MGA, although it stretched its capacity to 1,798cc from 1,622cc. It produces 98hp and 110 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. With a curb weight of 2,006 lbs, even an engine generating such modest levels of power and torque provides an engaging driving experience. It will run out of breath at 103mph, but cruising on the open road at 70 is a realistic expectation. The seller worked through a thorough revival process when they liberated this British classic from its thirteen-year barn hibernation. They rebuilt or replaced most of the brake components, fitted new parts to the clutch, and performed other tasks to ensure that this little survivor was in good mechanical health. Potential buyers can consider it a turnkey proposition that not only drives well but comes with a crate of additional parts.

Affordable projects typically attract attention, offering an excellent entry point for enthusiasts contemplating a first build. This 1965 MGB fits into that category, and its lack of significant rust will draw people who prefer not to spend hours cutting and welding to eliminate such problems. The MG is unlikely to become a mega-bucks classic, but values have climbed steadily during the past year. However, parking a vehicle of this type in your garage is sometimes about more than investment potential. If you crave an utterly joyful driving experience that allows you to escape from the stresses of daily life, cars like this can fulfill that role perfectly. That must make it worth a closer look.