Lot details Registration No: KNB 11N Chassis No: GD2D12382G Mot Expiry: Sept 2011
36,000 MILES FROM NEW
Created by Mini racer turned car tuner Ken Costello, the first Rover V8-engined MG B appeared in 1970. Suitably impressed, the Abingdon manufacturer began work on an 'official' version the following year. Introduced in August 1973, the resultant MG B GT V8 looked disarmingly standard. Borrowing its four-speed manual plus overdrive gearbox and rear-end transmission from the six-cylinder MGC (but doing without that model's 'power bulge' bonnet thanks to the use of a special low-rise exhaust manifold), it utilised the same monocoque bodyshell and suspension layout as the four-cylinder MGB (their respective powerplants being near identical in weight). Thus, although it necessitated a modified bulkhead, raised ride height, bespoke gear ratios and upgraded front disc brakes, the installation of the all-alloy 3528cc Rover V8 proved relatively straightforward. Credited with 137bhp and 193lbft of torque, the Buick-derived unit imbued the MGB with a hitherto unknown level of performance. Reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and 125mph, the MGB GT V8 was favourably received by the contemporary motoring press. Only in production for three years, a mere 2,591 are thought to have been made (BL were reputedly afraid that the model would steal sales from its Triumph Stag stablemate).
The 1975 B GT V8 being offered is a manual transmission car equipped with overdrive gearbox. Riding on correct-type wheels, it is finished in Black with Black leather upholstery. The vendor informs us that `KNB 11N' is a very original, low mileage example (circa 36,000) which has been fastidiously cared for by owners known to each other. Waxoyled and generally garaged, it sports a factory fitted Weathershield sunroof and period radio/cassette player. Being sold complete with original purchase documents, service passport, workshop manuals and all old MOTs, this handsome looking V8 is regarded by the owner as having "excellent and original" bodywork, "excellent" paintwork, an engine that "runs beautifully" and a "very good" transmission.
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