1975 MG B GT V8

This is one of just 2,591 genuine V8s to leave the Abingdon factory.

Like most Abingdon-built cars, the construction quality of this example sets it apart from other, lesser stablemates from elsewhere within what became the British Leyland empire.

This one benefits from having been in the same ownership from 1978 until it was recently purchased by the trade vendor. 

That long-term owner was Jeff Ward, a well-known collector and an influential figure in the world of British motorsport.

The odometer today reads 74,332 miles and we have no reason to doubt the veracity of that reading, given the numbers shown across the car’s MoT history.

The car comes with a BMIHT certificate stating that the car was specified with cast alloy wheels and an overdrive gearbox, and adding that the original engine was replaced before it left the factory.

Finished in ‘Flamenco Red’ with black fabric upholstery, the car was completed on 15th May 1975 and despatched to supplying dealer Stewart & Arden Ltd of Barnes on 19th May. 

Jeff Ward had the car dry stored for several lengthy periods (which also helps support our belief in the mileage), and the car has had some recent recommissioning work carried out, including fixing a fuel leak and stripping and cleaning the carbs.

The car starts and runs without any issues and, as a largely unrestored and highly original example, it has retained the handling and balance for which both the marque and the model were famed. 

It has also retained the full-throated burble and roar that tells you – and everyone else within earshot – that this car has a V8 under the bonnet.

The condition of the bodywork is really very straight, and there are no cracks, holes, creases, ripples, dinks or dents of any significance anywhere. 

The doors close with plenty of weight, authority and precision – this is a properly screwed-together car.

The ‘Flamenco Red’ paintwork (which we believe was resprayed in 1987) looks very decent from a few metres away.

Get a little closer and one or two cosmetic issues make themselves known.

There is a little bubbling at the base of the o/s/r wheel arch, in the sill ahead of it, at the base of the nearside ‘C’ pillar, and the base of the n/s/r wheel arch.

There’s also some bubbling at the base of the offside ‘A’ pillar and above and below the chrome swage-line trim on the nearside.

We also spotted some small patches of bubbling on the o/s/f wing and at the base of the front wheel arch on the same side.

There are a couple of cracks to the front valance and a few stone chips in the usual places.

The black Britax roof opens and closes as it should and forms a close seal with the surrounding bodywork.

The chrome work is in fine fettle throughout and the wheels seem to be largely untroubled by wear, age or mishap. 

The lights, lenses, badging and other exterior fixtures and fittings appear to be in good order.

You won’t be surprised to learn that it’s a similar story of honest, authentic preservation and originality on the inside.

The black fabric upholstery is good, front and back, and the seats are comfortable, supportive and functional.

The door cards are in equally impressive condition, as are the carpets and mats throughout.

The roof lining is in good, intact condition but could do with being shown a damp cloth.

The boot is following the same script as the rest of it and looks very fine.

The dashboard, with its black, crackle-effect finish, is fine, as are the steering wheel, gear lever and handbrake. 

There is a battery isolator switch behind the front seats.

We didn’t press every button, flip every toggle or tweak every knob, but those we did press, flip and tweak did as they were instructed without misbehaving. 

The ashtray lid has detached itself and the sun-visors seem decidedly empty and hollow. 

The engine bay is clean, dry and tidy. 

The undersides of the car look to have a good deal of structural integrity. 

Clearly, you’ll want to take a look and reach your own conclusion.

The car comes with a full and comprehensive history file covering its maintenance, servicing, fettling and repair over the years. 

It comes with the original handbook, Passport to Service, workshop manual supplement copy (AKD 8468), assorted old MoT certificates, various letters, articles and photographs, and all sorts of bills, invoices and receipts. 

It has an MoT certificate (with no advisories) that’s valid until 27.3.25.

One or two minor cosmetic issues aside, this is an authentic and original example of what is becoming an increasingly rare and sought-after model.

And this particular example comes with the inestimable bonuses of Jeff Ward ownership provenance, low mileage and plenty of history.

We’re confident to offer this fine car for auction with an estimate of £12,000 - £14,000. 

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at the Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are strictly by appointment. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.