1969 MG MGB with overdrive

1969 MG MGB Roadster Description

Up for auction is a clean 1969 MGB roadster with overdrive. A solid daily driver whose mechanics and body are in good nick. The good: (1) working overdrive (rare), (2) rust free doglegs, rockers, floor panels and frame (3) manual transmission is firm and does not slip in any gear, (4) steering and suspension firm, (5) electronics (lights, speedo, tack, wipers, blower) in working order, (6) body is solid and straight, (7) exhaust system in great working order, (8) dash knobs work to the best of my memory. The car has been garaged and covered - convertible top and glass in excellent condition (rarely up). Window glass is fine and roll easily. The engine runs/idles smooth with strong oil pressure. With the overdrive, it is a pleasure to drive at today's highway speeds. I have put less than 500 miles on the car - mostly rural roads and highways.The previous owner (PO) told me the engine had less than 2,000 miles on a rebuild but did not supply the paperwork so I cannot substantiate the claim. Does not burn oil. As with cars of this age, I cannot verify mileage. PO also replaced wiring, added LED dash lights and fog lamps, installed new carpet and leather interior, new convertible top, new wheels and tires.

The Arbingdon pillow dash that came on 68-69 MGBs was replaced with a 75 dash by the PO. A 70-76 model dash conversion is popular as as the gauges and switches are the same size and the dash will fit without modification to the car body. As the pillow dash did not have central air vents, the PO mounted a speaker in the vent area of the 75 dash. Whether or not this is an upgrade, depends on your point of view. Review of MG owner forums show that replacing the pillow dash is often considered after purchase of this model year especially if pillow dash is cracked and needs replacement or new cover pad. Other options such as fitting a pre-68 metal dash or stripping the pillow/foam material to metal and repainting are more expensive, difficult and time/labor consuming. Andy Jennings (UK) sells a fiberglass MGV8 styled replacement for the USA pillow for $350.

The following components are new by me - thermostat-controlled radiator fan, electronic ignition, clutch slave cylinder, stainless steel oil hoses, after market steering wheel and steering wheel hub adaptor, seat belts, battery box liner, engine hood liner, wooden gear shift knob, side door folding drink holder. I alsopurchased a usedfull length tonneau cover that is in great shape.

The so-so. Paint is in good shape - body, engine bay, and boot. PO, who was restoring the car as a hobby, stripped paint to the metal but the body prep could have been better. The color is whiter and not as creamy as shown in the pics. I would say it is a 10 to 12 footer that could stand some finish work and a respray. Thebody chrome pieces are fine but bumpers are starting to show surface pitting. One rear tail lights needs to be reassembled and one front overrider needs to be refitted (both loose). The tail light's bulbs, lens, and frame are fine but it appears the backing or gasket was not properly installed for a tight fit.I have replacement somewhere and will include if I can find. The ovoerrider can easily be fixed with new packing, spacer, bolt/nut ($10 fix). The brakes are a bit spongy – need to bleed and check seals as car has not been heavily driven.

I bought the car as a weekend car with the intention of repainting. I am 6'2" and fit better in my MGB-GT. I have had 8 MGBs over the years and this was my first convertible. I am 68 and frankly my B-GT and Miata are enough fun.

Extras - Buyer has option of replacing after market steering wheel with the original banjo wheel. I may also have a set of hex wheel knock offs if prefer. Available for purchase isa hard to find dealer added center console and clock (see photo). I will sale for $100 (less than half price). I also have the paint used on the car as well as carpet and leather remnants.The car is a daily driver that could be easily and inexpensively upgraded with minor DIY work. The condition of the car is stated to the best of my knowledge and is being sold "as is". No warranty offered or implied. It is advertised locally, so I reserve the right to halt auction. If you have questions, I will be happy to respond.