1973 MG B Roadster

This MG has been with the current owners for 43 years, having been stored for the past 20, the owner has sadly passed recently with the car passing to his spouse, as shown in the documentation. It comes with a removable hard top, original soft top frame and tonneau and as the car is currently with us here at Bonhams HQ the engine has been turned by hand to ensure it moves freely, which is does.

The paintwork on the car, which is believed to be original, has held up well in places, despite the car’s long period in storage. The body will need some work however, especially around the bottom of the chassis and in some other areas which have been highlighted in the photo gallery. The rostyle wheels look to be solid with just surface rust showing on the exterior of the rims. All trim and brightwork looks to be present and in decent condition too, perhaps just needing a spruce up with the polish before being refitted. 

The hard top is a nice piece and looks to fit well from what we can see. An original soft top frame is present with, what we assume is the original soft top cover which will need to be replaced. Glass around the vehicle looks to be in good condition too, including quarterlights and the glass sections of the hard top also. 

The interior of the car looks to be all present and accounted for and whilst it would need a thorough clean and freshen up, all the major components look to be present.

The vinyl seat covers look to have survived well with minimal marks, tears, or other damage. Dials and instruments along with switches and other components look to be intact too. 

The interiors of MG B’s aren’t the most expansive of spaces and this one looks to be largely, if not entirely original so the new owner would have the choice to retain the car’s originality or make upgrades as they see fit. 

The boot sees a full-size spare wheel along with some spare parts, and the metal work in here also presents well.

Sporting a 1798cc B-Series engine, the little MG was widely regarded as being a desirable bang for buck package. Fed by twin carbs and breathing through a rorty exhaust, the MG gave driver’s a fantastic experience which consolidated its cult status throughout its time.

This MG, as stated, has not been run for at least a decade but turns freely by hand suggesting it has not seized. Parts and knowledge are still plentiful for these engines however and they remain largely within the realms of the home mechanic in terms of fixing and maintenance. 

A full check and recondition would be advised for the MG ensuring that it is working well and can give a level of reliability to the new owner once back on the road. 

Having been owned for the past 43 years, and having been stored for the past 20, much of the paperwork would have likely been misplaced but the car comes with the V5, set of keys, and an RAC vehicle check confirming its first registration and number of owners. 

There also some spares with the car however, including a set of spotlights and a period suitcase, filled with miscellaneous spares as would have likely been carried by the mechanically minded driver of the time. 

The MG certainly has an interesting story, coming from an era of ‘buy it for life’, which is evidenced by the extraordinary long ownership time. It is now up for auction ready for someone to give it a new lease of life and purpose and done right, the car could certainly have another joyous 50 years to give.

We are happy to offer this vehicle for auction with an estimate in the range of £3,000 - £6,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at 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’.