The seller of this 1972 MGB-GT project car on eBay in Burbank, California was evidently trying out a new camera and got very creative with the angles. But it does appear to be a stalled restoration that’s fairly close to the finish line. Bidding would start at a low $1,000, but is sure to go higher.

The work was abandoned a decade ago. ”Restoration was started but never finished,” the seller says. “The engine [rebuilt] was running before it was parked. I don’t know the mileage on the car. No rust. Clean interior and clean engine bay. Rebuilt front suspension. This looks to be a project. The tires should hold air but it will need a new set. All lights look to be in great condition. The car does not run and it will need to be towed. Clean California title in hand. No reserve.”

The “no rust” claim is a bit exaggerated. “Little rust” would be more accurate. There’s some corrosion around the edges. But the trunk floor sure is clean. The interior does look serviceable but those seats are from somewhere else. A concours restoration would require stripping it down, fixing the dents and holes, and buying new tires, among other tasks. The bumpers aren’t visible but presumably, they’re around somewhere with the other missing trim. The steering wheel is probably still with the car, and the wire wheels might clean up.

The MGB-GT was, of course, an enclosed grand tourer version of the tried-and-true MGB. It was introduced in late 1965 and stayed in production until MG’s sad demise in 1980. In ’72, it was still kind of sporty. Pininfarina designed the hatchback roof of this 2+2, which turned the MGB into a more practical traveler, though still mostly for two. Check out British singer-guitarist Richard Thompson’s excellent “MGB-GT” for a great restoration tale–his own car? It was “a runner” in the song.

Mechanically the MGB-GT differed little from the standard car, though it did get different spring settings, anti-roll bars, and its windshield. UK cars had 95 horsepower from their 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines with twin SU carbs, but smog equipment in 1968 and later meant American exports had less. By the late ‘70s smogged California cars produced a pathetic 70 horsepower, but the regular U.S. GT ’72 had 79 with 94 foot-pounds of torque. That was coupled to an all-synchromesh four-speed manual with optional overdrive.

These cars are hardly quick, but they can keep up with modern traffic, are fun to drive, and are reasonably practical. Expect leaks and electrical problems if the wiring has been messed with. Classic.com says the 1965 to 1981 MGB-GT averages $14,730 with a rising valuation. So if the bids stay low this could be a good deal.