1973 MGB GT V8 Conversion

Description

Fully restored from a bare shell about 20 years ago and lightly used since; Rover V8 3.5 engine and five-speed gearbox; uprated brakes and suspension; nice red leather interior; current owner 12 years; most attractive all round

As the Heritage Certificate confirms, this lovely MGB started out in life as a regular 1.8 GT and was originally finished in Teal Blue, leaving the factory in March 1973 destined for the Kennings dealership in Redhill.

Nothing is known of the car’s subsequent history but in c.2002 it was treated to a total ground-up restoration which included the fitment of a Rover V8 3.5 engine and 5-speed gearbox, an appropriate rear axle, uprated brakes and suspension and a bare metal repaint in Damask Red. Sadly there are no invoices to show exactly what was done, but there are many photos showing the work in progress and many new parts being fitted.

In April 2012 the car was acquired by a professional mechanic, John Dunn of JWD Autorite in Swindon, at which point it was still an unfinished project. He completed the restoration to a good standard and it still looks smart today, both above and below, with a lovely red leather interior and decent paintwork.

Our vendor had been looking for a factory-built V8 and went to see several but none of them were good enough. He was much more impressed by this car, especially the structural condition, so he bought it from Mr Dunn in October 2012.

During his 12-year ownership he has improved it still further, including fitting new chrome bumpers front and rear, new carpets, new stainless steel exhaust system, CTEK battery conditioner; Minilite-style alloys and a new set of tyres. He has also kept it well-maintained, with regular servicing, as detailed in invoices on file.

Used mainly for local shows and car club rallies, we are told that the car runs and drives well, with a good turn of speed when required and excellent brakes, 7 old MOTs showing that it has covered some 2,000 miles during the current ownership. Now MOT-exempt, the last MOT was issued in September 2021 with no advisories recorded, and the car has only covered some 400 miles since.

As you can see in the photos, the car looks most attractive and has been starting promptly and running beautifully as we have moved it around on site, with good 40psi oil pressure and a nice burbly exhaust note. Only reluctantly for sale due to lack of recent use, this performance GT looks mighty tempting at the sensible guide price suggested.

For more information contact James on 07970 309907 or email james.dennison@brightwells.com