Everyone knows the friendly, ccessible MGB, ut this 1977 MGB has a unique look that fixes everyone's biggest complaints about the late Bs without losing the things that make them great traditional sports cars. Today, s always, his car is all about affordable fun in the sun and the look makes this one stand out in a crowd.The biggest modification, nd the one that you'll appreciate most, s the removal of those clunky federally-mandated rubber bumpers, hich marred the otherwise sleek MGB in the mid-70s. Shaving them off completely gives this MGB a sleek, urposeful look that's entirely in line with its sporting intentions. Adding a chrome grille up front makes it look like the original designers intended and with a pair of big rally lights up front and a roll pan in back, he car looks quite finished, s if the factory built it that way. The silver paint was done a while ago and isn't show quality, ut for a car that's destined to be driven with gusto on twisting country roads, obody will notice or care. The important stuff like the rockers and doors are in good condition and the overall unusual look will win this B a lot of fans along the way. Traditional styling elements like the chrome-ringed side marker lights, ig taillights, nd exposed rear gas filler remain in place, eeping this car firmly tied to its British heritage.When you think "British sports car," this 2-seat interior is what should pop into your mind. Twin buckets flanking a console, ugged seat covers that are cleverly textured to keep them cool, nd big, imple gauges were all hallmarks of MG in the 1970s. The wood-rimmed steering wheel adds some very welcome warmth to the interior yet maintains a traditional sports car look with its aluminum spokes, nd the fatter rim makes it easy to grab with your string-back driving gloves (you do own a pair of those, ight?). The gauges are in good order, he seat covers are excellent, nd it appears to have recent carpets. The car's most desirable feature, factory overdrive, s actuated by a big red switch on the dash, ally style, nd it not only transforms the MGB into a decent long-distance cruiser, ut it makes you feel like you're at the wheel of a far more expensive machine. There's a decent-fitting black convertible top that fits behind the seats, nd the trunk is nicely carpeted and includes a full-sized spare.The 1798cc inline-four won't win any drag races, ut the joy of an MG is not all-out speed but rather how the machine goes about its business. The gutsy engine loves to rev and makes a great baritone howl from the exhaust pipe out back, o you'll relish each gear shift. You can drive this car at 9/10ths and really have a ball without endangering the countryside, nd it works exceptionally well. The nicely detailed engine has a few bright red accents, n aftermarket exhaust header, nd enough power to feel lively at any speed. The 4-speed manual shifts easily and you'll love running it through the gears, nd with the aforementioned overdrive, t's pretty relaxed on the highway, oo. The suspension is a good combination of supple and competent and with the lightweight bodywork, he brakes are impressive. Factory wheels look right and carry 175/70/14 Falken radials all around.You've been admiring MGBs for years, hy not take the plunge and get a good one? Call today!
|