Something happens to us when we see a convertible model with a fixed roof bolted onto it. Years ago, when Mazda teased the purely concept-based 1996 M Coupe, the motoring world lost its mind and begged them to build it (they didn’t.) I own a 2001 BMW Z3 M Coupe, which was basically a concept car that skipped the concept phase and went straight to production; it has a loyal following of borderline obsessive fixed-roof fans. In the same way, the MGB was transformed when the GT model was born, and all these years later, it still looks so, so good. This 1968 MGB GT Listed here on craigslist is described as a “survivor” with “…great patina”, which I interpret to mean unrestored. Do you agree?
Thanks to Barn Finds reader Curvette for the find, which is listed for $13,440. Now, those words are used frequently to describe classic cars, but this GT doesn’t have the sheen of having been recently restored. The paint isn’t ridiculously shiny (but it looks decent, for sure – maybe an older respray?), the tail lamp lenses don’t appear to be brand-new reproductions, and it hasn’t been slathered with fresh undercoating. There’s also some odd details as well, which simultaneously speak to some of the details being “off”: the aftermarket muffler doesn’t appear to be all that secure and the antenna is missing its mounting base/grommet.
Now, listen – my goal here is to affirm this as being a survivor car, as those are inherently more desirable than a vehicle that has been quickly prepped for sale. The door panels appear to be in great shape, as does the dash, and I’m willing to bed the seats got fresh covers/upholstery a few years ago. Everything shows some use, which is not a bad thing – the question is how long ago was it restored and to what level? Fortunately, being in Washington State hopefully suggests this MGB GT has never been exposed to road salt, and the cosmetics certainly suggest that. Funny thing about the antenna: internet research seems to suggest the location of the antenna and the fender mirror were left up the dealer, so there’s not a ton of consistency to placement.
Under the hood is a 1.8L B-Series inline four which left the factory with twin SU carburetors. Power-wise, the MG made 95 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque when new, which was plenty sporting for the era and for a vehicle of this size. What’s surprising to me is how spotty the market has been for these cars as of late, with several very low activity auctions on the major platforms over the last few months. Given how much parts and specialist support there still is for British models like these, I’m surprised to not see more activity given MGs are one of the best brands for dipping a toe into classic car ownership with. Do you think this GT is a real-deal survivor?
Yes. Nice car here.
Looks to be quite clean and well cared for… If the 34K miles is real that would be rare for a ‘B of this vintage… actually, rare for a ‘B of any vintage. $13,440 is all the money though…
Looks like a really nice BGT. Earlier car, but I think by 1968 it’s a 5 main engine.
The seat does look recovered, but they should have put new foam in as well, looks perished.
I like seeing high prices on Bs, maybe it will drag the price up on mine to make it worth painting.
But this price looks optimistic
IIRC the MGB transitioned to the 5 bearing engine in the ’65 model year. Engine numbers 18GB… and later.
The problem with the MGB, is that you can always buy a Miata for less money, but in far better shape. How do I know this? Because that’s what I did! Unless you really have to own a British car, the Japanese alternatives are so much more reliable, and many of us would rather spend our weekends driving than wrenching in the garage. This is especially true for my son‘s generation. They like the Japanese cars and trucks better, cars like the Acura Integra.
The Miata runs circles around the MGB too. But..there’s something about the sound, the interior and the overall quirkiness of the MG that gives it a soul that the Miata cannot have.
The British would call this MG a fixed-head coupe. And here is a pretty nice example in my home town to boot. However, to me, part of the allure of having a British sports car is having a rag top for open-air motoring. If I wanted a small British car with a roof I’d find a Morris Minor, Austin America or the like.
The aftermarket exhaust is indeed hanging low, not uncommon as the rear valance is designed for a single tail pipe. I installed an ANSA exhaust on my 70, but trimmed and rolled the edge to clear the dual tips, and raised it into position. You can also get an upswept design that visually improves the look and alleviates cutting anything.