1971 - MGB roadster - Lot 13

1971 - MGB roadster The archetypal small British collectible sports convertible French registration Chassis n°GHN5UB229185G Bodywork n°MGBU304100 Engine n°18GK-WE-H-1999 - Aston Martin-inspired styling and first MG sports monocoque - Interesting "MKIII" version, both optimized and still aesthetically appealing - American car with overdrive, imported to France in 2017 - Elegant blue-black interior, black soft top and chrome-spoke wheels - Barely 77,500 miles on the odometer, engine probably original - Lots of recent work on this quality example in very good condition From the Roaring Twenties onwards, British sports cars enjoyed a golden age and were exported in large numbers to the USA, particularly MGs. Conceived as the successor to the MGA of the mid-1950s, the MGB was launched in 1962. It was the English brand's first monocoque car, lighter than its predecessor but just as rigid. The engines, gearbox, axle, suspension and brakes were evolutions of the MGA's reputedly simple and solid components. On the other hand, the all-cast-iron four-cylinder engine has been upgraded to 1.8 liters, producing a respectable 94 hp. The first-series MGB could exceed 160 km/h with moderate fuel consumption for the time. However, its main advantage, in addition to its stability and acceleration, was its superior level of comfort, including crank-operated windows and, as standard, a heating system. The MGB is solid, reliable and well finished, making it an instant success from the outset. After the cabriolet, still described as a roadster, the 1965 MGB GT coupé broadened its potential clientele by becoming an iconic 60s hunting station wagon with a roomy luggage compartment, whose Aston Martin heritage is even more obvious than on the already successful convertible body. The MGB roadster may be more exclusive, as it is a strict two-seater, but it is nonetheless very popular. Thanks to its wind-in-the-hair driving style, which increases the pleasure of driving it tenfold and makes this little British sports car a sensational car without going fast, its power of attraction is also enhanced by its light shapes and numerous chrome accents, which give it a slightly old-fashioned charm that's as chic as it is endearing, it appeals to men and women alike. The model presented here is a third-generation MGB roadster from the very end of 1970, launched in February 1971, of American origin and featuring the overdrive option. As the "MKIII" version (unofficial name), it benefits from the technical improvements of the MKII, such as the fully synchronized gearbox and the replacement of the dynamo by an alternator, while retaining - especially as this is an early MKIII production model - a styling almost identical to the previous versions, appreciated more for its purity. After an American life during which it was undeniably well cared for, as evidenced by the preservation of multiple original identification, mechanical and trim elements, this MGB was imported to France in 2017. Clearly never fully disassembled for restoration, it has nevertheless benefited from a full paint job in the past and sports a very elegant Teal Blue configuration, with black soft top and black vinyl interior with matching carpets. The bodywork is sound and in good condition, with good color depth and bright chrome. The chrome-spoke wheels and tires are new, the soft top is waterproof, and the upholstery and carpets are recent, as are the Moto-Lita-style aluminum and wood steering wheel and gearshift knob. A few minor finishing touches have also been made over the last two years, so this MGB is in relatively top condition. The odometer shows 77500 miles, which could well correspond to its original mileage, bearing in mind that the (high-compression) engine could also be the original one, since its specifications and production period seem to match those of the car. The invoice file attests to regular maintenance in recent years, including the replacement of components that enable this MGB to be used serenely on a daily basis, as we were able to enjoy and observe during our test drive. In 2023, the electrical system was overhauled and a general check carried out. In 2025, the v