V8-Powered 1979 MG MGB
This 1979 MGB is powered by a ver 3.5L V8 paired with an early T5 five-speed manual transmission. It is finished in red with white racing stripes, over black leather interior with heated seats and wood steering wheel and rosewood dash. The custom body work features hand stretched metal fenders, reworked steel front valance, and a fiberglass hood scoop and -style rear valance.
In addition to the motor and transmission, aftermarket equipment includes: lbrock intake and 4 barrel carburetor, VDO Gauges, 205/55 R15 s on VTO Wheels, Lowered springs, Uprated front shocks, x Adjustable ar Tube Shocks, uprated sway bar and bushings, Jet- t Coated Exhaust ifold, Custom Afterburner exhaust with balance tube, 15 n Fuel Cell, ther Miata Seats
Car was purchased disassembled in 2005 as a rolling chassis with a rebuilt engine and rebuilt transmission. furbished over 8 years, it was completed in late 2012. Extensive documentation is available showing the depth of the refurbishment, with great attention to any part that might be subject to wear or visibly showing age. New parts were used extensively. The goal was to make this as close to “new” as reasonably possible.
Since refurbishment, the odometer shows just over 5000 miles.
This MGB has a clean title in my name.
What you’ll love: This MGB is a strong, enjoyable car and extraordinary conversation starter. The V8 motor starts easily, runs clean, and sounds glorious. It pulls the car strongly and quickly, accelerates well out of curves in any gear. The suspension is tight and firm without feeling “race car hard”. The steering system is new and responds nicely with great feedback. It is at home on both mountain roads or the interstate. This car has been stored indoors for the duration of my ownership, and I have observed no signs of body rust anywhere and the undercarriage still looks great.
What you’ll find: This car started as a hobby and experiment to see how far I could take an MGB and I am very pleased with the result, but it’s not a perfect car. Here are some notable examples of where you can continue to take this to the next level:
· The paint work is still overall very good. There is some lack of crispness in the lines on the racing stripe. notably, removing the factory seam where the front fenders meet the body resulted in a crack forming when the windshield was tightened and the joint flexed slightly (see pictures).
· The rebuilt T5 transmission was reassembled without a retaining clip for 5th gear. In the subsequent repair, the tailpiece was slightly dinged, and it makes reverse a little fickle. It occasionally pops out of reverse. All forward gears operate perfectly.
· The convertible top is good but old. It might be original, and as expected, it leaks. I generally only used it when washing the car. This is also an opportunity to refine further if desired.
· The tires have great tread but are now getting old.
· It drips a minimal amount of oil.
This car is incredibly engaging, and a joy to experience. It will provide a great driving experience and huge value for what you spend. Please see the test drive video below!
I hope you enjoy it as much as I have!