Chrome Bumper Classic Convertible

1974 MG MGB Description

Let me introduce you to MaryGrace, my 1974 MG MGB. She left the Abbingdon Lane assembly plant in October of '73, making her a Mark III version and one of the last of the chrome bumper classics. I have so much enjoyed preserving and restoring this motorcar. It is definitely a drivers car, meaning there's no winding or curvy mountain road you won't want to tackle! Shifting through the 4 speed gearbox is pure joy. The transmission and hydraulic clutch is tight and perform like new. The fuel system is new including tank, electronic SU fuel pump, and rebuilt twin SU carburetors (HIF4) with seals compliant with E85 fuel. Both the choke and accelerator cables are new. The front suspension, brake pads, calipers and discs, e-brake cable, tyres and tubes are all new. The Damask Red paint, a few years old, was obviously done professionally by a previous owner and is still exceptional. To compliment the chrome bumpers, chrome trimmed Smith's gauges accent the dash. Everything works as designed including the dual brake line pressure valve and test switch located on the dash. Sitting behind her Mahogany and stainless Tourist Trophy 14"-steering wheel, you quickly appreciate the attention to detail and British design, as light dances off instruments like they are elegant timepieces. Under the bonnet you will find that attention to detail has helped preserve and retain the spirit of the original build while modern improvements enhance the dependability. Her engine oil pressure maintains a steady 65 to 70 psi while accelerating and never uses a drop of oil between oil changes. Speaking of accelerating, the new polished stainless steal Tourist Trophy sport exhaust simply purrs. Shocks on all four corners are the original style and perform exceptionally well, with no leaks. Perhaps the reason this particular car is so exceptional is the fact that, to my knowledge, there is NO RUST ANYWHERE! If you are already familiar with these little jewels you know that rust was their achilles heal. Rust sent so many of the British motor cars to the land of no return. Fortunately, according to my research, it appears this MG has been registered in central or north Alabama most if not all of its existence. During my ownership, I have primarily focused on correct mechanics and dependable driveability. I have taken very few liberties with her- that is, departing from the factory design. I did replace the black plastic grill with the 62-69 style chrome and stainless grill, white parking lights and the mahogany wheel. I do have the original '74 black plastic grill and leather 15" steering wheel. Mechanical liberties include placing the headlights on relays (highly recommended,) disconnecting the seat-sensor seatbelt starter interrupt system, added a new RetroSound radio, and removed the points from the distributor and installed a Petronix ignition. Theonly obvious downside to her condition is the drivers seat does need to be recovered. I'm 6'3" and the "deconstructed" seat gives me extra headroom. Her garage-bedroom is a constant 65 degree moisture free environment. (The 4th picture shows her with a Monza exhaust that is no more.) Will entrust her to a good home only, now demonstrate how good your home is with your purchase!