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Curated Auction

1969 MG MGC Sebring

At a Glance

Owned ~10 Years | Genuine Sebring Convertible | John Chatham Provenance

  • Mileage~16,457 on clock
  • TransmissionManual with Overdrive
  • Engine2.9L
  • LocationWorcester

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below - we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report - learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below - we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report - learn more

CURATED AUCTION

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CURRENT BID£13,455
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£13,455

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Video #2

Introduction

Glyn Parry
Professional Consigner

This is a big deal MGC - it's one of three Sebring convertibles produced by John Chatham with provenance to prove - opportunities like this don't come up everyday.

First launched at the Earls Court Motor Show on October 18, 1967, the MGC was British Motor Corporation's replacement for the Austin-Healey 3000. BMC changed up the the Austin-Healey focusing on improving its emission tests and safety regulations, and the company quickly searched for a six-cylinder replacement engine for upgraded power.

MG at their Abingdon factory laid down to build 6 MGC lightweight GTs for long distance races, but only two were finished - these are extremely collectible and of most value. John Chatham, bought the unfinished four cars from the factory, with associated spares, and built those cars. These are also highly collectible and valuable with the most recent one selling for €140,000 back in 2016.

But the story doesn't stop there - John saw the opportunity to build a roadster version of the car, and he did, creating an example for himself and two other cars on customer order - this car being one of those two orders.

This car was built with the same flared wheel arches molded from the original factory car, with wider wheels and larger tyres, modified suspension, works torsion bars, unrated shock absorbers, a Qualife style LSD fitted, engine modified with triple weber carburettors, six branch exhaust and 300 degree camshaft.

John always believed the factory should have developed this specification and thought it would have then stayed in production much longer.

So this example is very special - it's certified as being one of three convertible cars produced by John Chatham with a letter from John confirming the provenance.

In more recent times, the car has benefitted from a huge amount of refurbishment work and comes with a great amount of invoicing and service history.

As we're sure you'll agree, it's a true classic with investment potential written all over it.

This listing was written from information supplied by Glyn after meeting Peter the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

This MGC is a throwback to what driving used to be like, no fuss, no nonsense - just the sound of the engine and the car on the open road.

A purchase born from love of classic cars, the MG MGC became a restoration project for the current owner after deciding to bring it back to its former glory.

Peter says, "I bought the MGC from John Chatham in 2014. I was looking for a classic car to replace my BRA Cobra simply because my late wife would just not travel in the Cobra. The advert for the car looked encouraging and I decided it was the car for me".

Having taken up the best part of the last ~10 years of the current owners life, the MG has covered a mere ~5,000 miles since purchase and has cost Peter over ~£35,000 to restore it to the lovely condition in sits in now.

Peter goes on to say, "I just hope it goes to a good home where it will continue to be cherished. The lucky new owner will have to promise to keep in touch with my grandson, who loves this car so much that he has vowed to buy it back one day".

Peter is only selling the car due to advancing years and increased difficulty getting out of it!

Peter
Vehicle Owner

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CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

With its stand out colour-way and sleek styling, combining racing heritage with weekend cruiser, the MG MGC is a really fun way to enjoy 1960's British motoring.

Wheels and Tyres

Superb looking silver finish 8x15" Mini-Lite wheels are in place on all four corners and are in excellent condition.

Being picky, we noted a slight sign of curb damage on the offside front wheel, but nothing that was a real concern here.

Fitted with Nankang Toursport 611's, the tyres show with date codes of 2014/15 and look in a great condition with minimal evidence of cracking, or wear - tyre size is set up with a 225/50 to the fronts and rears.

The spare wheel in the boot is a 15" MG wire wheel with a 185/65 Michelin tyre.

Please take a look over the exterior gallery section for a close up view of the wheels and tyres on the MG.

Bodywork

Walking round the MG MGC the panel fit looks good and the body is in excellent shape.

Again being ultra picky, there are a few signs of slight mis-alignment where panels around the drivers door and boot section show a little larger gap.

The bonnet section of the car is a lightweight version and held in place with four securing pins.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The MG looks fantastic when standing back and admiring the angles around the car. Finished in a non-metallic British Racing Green with Signal Yellow front section, the colour combination really stands out for all the right reasons.

The paintwork has been resprayed over its history and the paint coverage is good across the panels. Overall the finish presents well - we only noted a few signs of paint bubbling around the A pillar section closest to the windscreen.

There is a slight mark on the drivers side door and also noted the door edge has some marks too - finally there were slight signs of paint cracking on the rear bumper section, but nothing that stood out as a real area of concern.

Again, we have taken high resolution images and videos of the car for you to assess the condition of the bodywork for yourselves. The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The glass on this example looks good and in line with the age of the car. We didn't notice any discolouration during our visit. The window seals look in fair condition in line with the rest of the condition of the car. The trim sections around the windscreen are likely to be the original surrounds from factory, and are showing in a respectable condition given the history of the car.

Perspex headlight covers show well and provide good protection for the lighting underneath - they do show with a little marking, but given the age of the car this didn't stand out as a concern.

Take a look through the exterior gallery and review video, we take you across all the areas of the car as if you were standing there for yourself. This way, you can see in greater detail what a great looking car the MG really is.

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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

Refined racing nature and rarity, the classic 60's style and setup in the MG MGC is hard to beat.

Seats and Carpets

The seats look really good in the MG; clean throughout.

The bolsters show a few creases and we did note a small section of tape on the top of the passenger seat, but overall showed in a lovely condition. Since our visit Peter told us he has made the driver's seat a little more adjustable.

The carpets and door cards tell a similar story - the car is fitted with a nice MG branded rubber mat on the drivers side.

Looking over the boot section, a spare wheel with Michelin tyre is in place complete with its tool kit and nut spanners. The carpet sections in the boot looked good too.

Dashboard

The dashboard is in good shape; there are a few signs of wear where we noted a few marks on the dash edges. The facia and centre console are tidy, with the controls appearing to be the car's original. All are said to be functional and working without concern when speaking with the owner.

The instruments are all nice and clean and all reported to be working correctly.

The odometer reported ~15,908 miles at the time of our visit.

Also, Peter is including a new dashboard with the sale as you'll see in the media file.

Our interior gallery section takes you over some closer images of the MGC dashboard, head over and see the cars interior in finer detail.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The Mota-Lita steering wheel is a hand-crafted metal and leather setup taking pride of place in this classic car cabin. The gear stick is in presentable condition showing with little wear, and a good condition gaiter surrounding the 4-speed lever.

We've captured high-resolution photos for you to review and appreciate the condition of the interior in our gallery section.

VIEW ALL
'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Thanks to its engine rebuild, the MGC sounds and performs beautifully.

Engine and Gearbox

The 2.9L engine has loads of muscle, and pulls the little MG along with a good amount of power.

In order to make the longer engine fit in the engine compartment, the radiator was repositioned in a more forward location. The radiator's larger size was designed to cope with the bigger displacement engine which resulted in the MGC's signature bonnet bulge along its leading edge. Since our visit Peter has changed the gasket on the Webbers, which means it now runs smoother from tick-over to 1,500rpm.

The manual transmission was working well on our drive out with the engine working without concern too.

Head over to the 'Mechanical Review' video for an overview of the engine, here you can see the car start up from cold and taken out on a short drive with the owner.

Suspension and Brakes

The MG handled well with no knocks, bangs or unwanted noises coming from the car when out on the road. Taking a drive on the road the MGC performed as to be expected with nothing out of the ordinary that we observed.

The car comes with front discs and rear wheel drum brakes.

Overall a very compliant ride that was pleasurable and comfortable during our road test.

Please view the mechanical review video and photographs to see close-up images from underneath the car.

The Drive

The MGC is well paced and suited for weekend cruises and track days alike.

With the addition of the hydraulic power steering the handling is also hugely improved.

The car worked its way through the gears nicely with the clutch working well.

We noted no shaking or juddering on the steering and showed no pull to the side when braking.

Electrics and Other

The electrics on the MGC are straightforward in their design and setup. All switches and lights appear in good condition and Peter told us that everything works as to be expected.

The car comes with a new battery and a battery isolator switch in the rear section of the cabin area.

The fold down roof section works well and has little issues in its operation or its condition. There was a small clip missing near the drivers side but not an issue that was particularly concerning.

The tonneau cover showed in good condition and provides great coverage for the car when stored with its roof section retracted.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

An attractive example of a very special John Chapham Sebring that's presented in lovely condition due to a very caring and passionate owner - this really is one very special investment car.

The MGC Sebring Roadster was truly a restoration project born from love and care.

The car has been featured in Classic and Sports Car magazine titled "The Best MG That Might Have Been"- so have a read of that article here: https://online.fliphtml5.com/xygt/fgeh/#p=1

The first major piece of work that Peter carried out was on the overdrive system, updating and re-working the drive setup in order to get the output 'back up to speed' in May 2015. This was quickly followed by changing up the wheels from gold compomotive wheels to the current and 'period correct' Mini-Lite's in September 2015.

Returning to the Chatham's, where Peter had originally purchased the MG, they carried out a total engine rebuild in May 2016. Whilst the engine was out, the gearbox was overhauled and new Weber 45 DCOE carburettors installed in April 2016, and a new clutch was fitted in February 2017. With the engine rebuild, clutch and the gearbox work, the cost was over ~£10,000.

After taking the MG to several hill climb events, Peter decided to take his driving skills back to the road under direction from his late wife. Following the MG's history through enthusiast competitions, the car went to Russ Hennessy where the engine was taken out and was replaced and strengthened with both sills and the wing being replaced. With the engine out a respray was next on the list for the MGC.

Gradually everything that held the car together underneath was refurbished or replaced with the suspension having a major overhaul along with a new alloy sump in March 2020 and polyurethane bushes were fitted for good measure in May 2020. An expensive new alloy radiator was fitted and a new Derrington manifold purchased. A maniflow stainless steel exhaust system was also bought and fitted in September 2021.

Following the mechanical upgrades, Peter wasn't satisfied with the way the engine was running so it was again taken out with a refresh and bearing change on the engine block, cylinder head was machined down, new pistons and rings added and the correct Payen cylinder head gasket fitted in December 2021.

With the wealth of upgrades transforming the car, the next step for Peter was to improve the ease of maneuvering in the MGC which would finalise his project with the car. From this, hydraulic power steering was added in May 2022 which radically improved the handling and setup of the car and transformed the driving experience.

At a cost of over ~£35,000 to restore, this is a really fantastic example of a car that has been loved and cared for which shows in its finished form in this listing. Since our visit Peter has made the driver's seat a little more adjustable and changed the gasket of the Webbers making the engine run smoother from tick-over to ~1,500rpm

Peter will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about the car in the comments below.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house. Please note, the car may be in daily use, so the mileage may increase from that shown here - you can request an update check with us after you register your interest.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
10.10.2017 MOT 12,887
13.10.2016 MOT 11,612
16.10.2015 MOT 10,508
11.10.2014 MOT 8,712
03.12.2012 MOT 8,681
03.03.2011 MOT 7,695
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Key Details
  • Model MGC Sebring Roadster
  • Transmission Manual OD
  • Reg. Date 18.02.1969
  • CC 2,912cc
  • Mileage ~16,457 on clock
  • History Good
  • Colour Green & Yellow
  • Interior Colour Black
  • Interior Trim Leather
  • Chassis # GCN1361G
  • Engine # 29GRU.H.611
  • Restored Yes
  • Engine Rebuild Yes
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - all clear
  • Former Keepers 11
  • Tyre Tread Good
  • Tyre Brand Nankang Toursport 611
  • Tyre Age 2014/15
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~10 Years, 4months
  • Key Feature John Chatham 1 of 3 Roadsters
  • Auction ID 1168
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Droitwich

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    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £13,455
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    Auction Ends Thu 10th Apr at 8.00pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  4
    £13,455 bid by Buttie4131.03.25 @ 22:40:23
    £12,344 bid by LIVE2531.03.25 @ 20:16:23
    £11,333 bid by LIVE2531.03.25 @ 20:16:00
    £5,000 bid by LIVE2531.03.25 @ 20:15:42
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    2798
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    8 Comments
    PeterT
    PeterT
    Seller
    1 day ago

    Yes it is a matching numbers vehicle

    LIVE25
    LIVE25
    2 days ago

    Hello Is it a matching numbers vehicle ?
    Regards Robert

    PeterT
    PeterT
    Seller
    2 days ago

    Thank you Paul. Sunday could be difficult as I have family arriving and am compering a concert in the faternoon.

    Buttie41
    Buttie41
    2 days ago

    Hi Peter sent a message to trade classic’s see what they say. Am hopefully looking at next sat/ sun for a viewing. I work nightshift so it would be later for a saturday visit but all sunday could be up for choice. I’ll let you know more as I find out later. Regards Paul

    PeterT
    PeterT
    Seller
    3 days ago

    Of course Paul. Not sure how you go about this and whether you have to do it through Trade Classics.

    Buttie41
    Buttie41
    3 days ago

    Hello Peter, would it be possible to view this car please, regards Paul.

    Buttie41
    Buttie41
    5 days ago

    Hello PeterT, this car was up for auction about 18 months ago and I was outbid. Could you tell me why the sale didn’t go through as your still the owner please…?
    Kind Regards Paul

    PeterT
    PeterT
    Seller
      Buttie41
    5 days ago

    Hi

    At the time it didn’t reach the reserve price I had put on it. I decided to withdraw it from sale and in the intervening 2 years my body has further degenerated to the point where I can’t get into the car. My grandson can, he’s just 20 years old, is totally in love with the car and anyone who buys it has to promise to sell it back to him when they have finished with it. By the way the reserve I have set is rather more realsitic than before!
    Kind regards,
    Peter

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Market View

    This is your special opportunity to own a John Chatham Sebring - don't let it pass you by.

    We’re sure you have a good idea of the value of this vehicle by studying our thorough listing, however, you may be interested to see a selection of recent sales of the same and / or similar models.

    1969 MGC GTS Sebring

    Auction House RM Sotheby's

    Sale Date 14 May 16

    Sold Price £123,327 (converted)

    SEE AUCTION

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a MGC like this is £153 via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Spring 2025.

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    Vehicle Location

    Droitwich

    Key Bidding Facts

    What is your reserve policy?

    A reserve is the minimum price that the seller will let the car go for. We work with sellers to set realistic reserves in line with market pricing – we don’t take on vehicles with unrealistic pricing. Reserve met / not met labeling may or may not be announced during the auction – this is just like a traditional auction house, i.e. bidders may only know when they’ve been successful at the end of the auction.

    If the reserve hasn’t been met at the end of the auction then we work with the highest bidder to try to work out a deal with the seller.

    Why shouldn’t I leave bidding to the last minute?

    Auto-Extending Bidding – we’ve developed auto-extending auctions that mimic traditional auction house bidding; it’s a key feature to make sure classic vehicles achieve their true worth. Bids placed in the last one minute automatically extend the auction by two further minutes. So there is no need to leave bidding to the last second.

    Security – we operate higher levels of security, so you may need to enter further authorisations against your stored card after you select ‘Place Bid’. All this takes time and may mean you miss the end of the auction by the time the authorisation passes. To guarantee your bid, we recommend at least five minutes are active on the auction when you place your bid.

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