1979 MG MGB LE Roadster |

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1979 MG MGB LE Roadster

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£7,265

Mileage~88,020
TransmissionManual
Engine1.8L
LocationGosport

SOLD

1979 MG MGB LE Roadster

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy

Automotive Editor, Photographer and Consigner

Universal appeal in a neatly crafted package, the MGB is all you'll ever need in an open-top car.

Possibly one of the most endearing relationships connecting the US to Britain can be summed up with the MGB. Such was its popularity and subsequent demand, most of the cars produced at the Abingdon factory were sold for export. The success of the brand not only forced US-based companies to produce their own interpretation of a sports car, but this did little to dispel the popular opinion that the MG was the first stop for those seeking an affordable, fun and good-looking open-top car.

This particular car was one of 6,682 1979-only limited edition roadsters specifically for the US market, all finished in black. This car was imported back into the UK in 1998 and completely overhauled, including an RHD conversion, the retro-fitting of wire wheels, chrome bumper, leather seats and several engine modifications. Beautifully presented, this example has seen regular attention over the years and could be considered something of a unique opportunity to obtain a late US-only spec LE, with the visual appeal of the earlier models.

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

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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.

Meet the owner

The car has a huge amount of sentimental value attached to it, but its simply not being used enough.

The car had been very much part of William’s partner's life several years ago but was then sold. Luckily, the opportunity to buy the very same car back again came up during the lockdown in 2020 and he leapt at the opportunity to bring the MGB back into their lives.

However, it hasn’t seen much more than 200 miles since then and has been kept in the safety of their garage. They harbour a little guilt for not using it as much as it deserves, due to busy life schedules, which is the key reason for the joint decision for the car to find a new owner. They'll be happy to answer any questions on the car in the comments section below.

William

Vehicle Owner

William saved £1,260* when they
sold their MG with us.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Finished in black, the neatly contrasting chrome adds a welcome appeal to this well-restored car

Wheels and Tyres

The wire wheels are believed to have been fitted onto the car at some point in the last 10 years and are in excellent shape with tight spokes. The Firestone tyres are all from 2013, but display plenty of tread.

Bodywork

The structure is solid, with a particularly clean engine bay. The floor pan is decent, with a few minor signs of age noted. The inner wings and boot floor appear to be in pleasing shape too.

The exterior panel work flows nicely, with even gaps observed on the door panels. All open and close easily, and the boot is fitted with gas struts. The car is free of dents, with no noticeable surface rust. The wheel arch lips have a light coat of corrosion in places, but nothing significant.

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 finish of the paintwork reveals a pleasing lustre, there’s very little in terms of paint damage, with nothing more than the odd painted-over chip repair. It's worth nothing some orange peel effects on the paintwork, particularly on the sides of the car.

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 hi-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 car's jewellery fits the expected standards of a car that has seen restoration and therefore displays a positive assessment of the condition of the chrome fittings, with no issues regarding the glass or rubber seals.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Well-trimmed and professionally finished, the cosy cabin is just part of the MGB experience

Seats and Carpets

The whole of the interior has seen an extensive overhaul, with the inclusion of many off-the-shelf fittings, including the leather seats. Both are in excellent condition with no signs of significant wear.

The carpets are in very good shape, with the boot also fully carpeted. All appear to be bone dry.

Dashboard

The dashboard is very presentable, with the facia looking very clean. There are a few upgrades to the cabin, including a Pioneer digital player with Bluetooth, USB and smartphone connectivity.

Asides from a few of the switches afflicted by age and a little padding warp, the overall verdict of the dashboard is positive. All controls are said to be functional, with the dials all legible. The door cards are in good shape, with no signs of water ingress noted behind the seats.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The gear lever shows a little wear but its gaiter and housing are intact. The Mountney leather steering wheel finishes off a neatly installed interior.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Its smooth driving and eager character are enhanced by its complete mechanical overhaul.

Engine and Gearbox

Believed to have been subject to a full mechanical restoration, the visual presentation of the engine is very positive with much of the ancillaries and hoses looking like fresh items. The car is fitted with an AccuSpark Ignition System, a full stainless steel exhaust system and a recent radiator.

The car starts up without any issues, with no wobbles or hesitation while idling and all of the dashboard warning lights appear to remain in check. The gears engage well, it is fitted with overdrive which was not tested but is said to be operational. No issues were reported with the clutch.

Suspension and Brakes

As part of the restoration process, the car has received a full set of new dampers along with visual evidence of new boots and bushes.

The brakes operate without any issues, with no uneven balance and stop the car without any drama.

The Drive

The car drove well during the road test, travelling at 30 mph, the car rides smoothly, with no issues observed from the steering when cornering or under braking. The engine sounded glorious, thanks to its well-tuned carburettors and stainless steel exhaust, with no signs of uneven running or hesitancy as the car pulled away from rest. The owner has not experienced any issues with the oil pressure or engine temperature.

Electrics and Other

The soft top is in decent shape, with a handful of minor issues, mostly noticeable on the rear off-side quarter section, which will need attention. It raises and lowers with ease, the catches locking to create a snug fit. It also comes with an intact and wear-free hood cover and full tonneaux.

The MG is fitted with a chrome boot rack, rear fog light, quadoptic split beam lighting set and a triple wiper set-up.

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History and Paperwork

Subject to a complete overhaul in 2009, this car has seen regular maintenance since and comes to market from ~3 year ownership.

Imported into the UK from the US in 1998, the car was then subject to a full body and mechanical rebuild, which also included a RHD conversion and chrome bumper conversion in 2009. Since then, it has been subject to plenty of upkeep, with invoices covering new front brake discs and pads, suspension modifications, a new battery and radiator and appears to have acquired a full set of wire wheels in lieu of the Stag style rims.

As well as historical invoices to back up the maintenance, there are MOTs that go back to 2003. Over the last 3 years in the hands of the current owner, the car has been stored in a garage.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a HPi check on the vehicle.

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.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
05-07-2019	MOT	86,714
02-09-2017	MOT	86,542
12-07-2017	Service	85,481
06-09-2016	MOT	85,421
04-06-2015	MOT	85,315
12-05-2014	MOT	82,780
29-05-2013	MOT	80,148
25-07-2011	MOT	80,115
14-05-2010	MOT	79,900
08-05-2009	MOT	79,605
08-04-2008	MOT	79,310
07-03-2007	MOT	78,751
06-07-2006	MOT	77,545
15-06-2005	MOT	76,186
02-07-2004	MOT	75,568
04-07-2003	MOT	75,020

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Key Details

ModelMGB LE Roadster
TransmissionManual with Overdrive
Reg. Date31-12-1979
CC1,798
Mileage88,020
HistoryRecent
ColourBlack
Interior ColourBlack
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #GVVDJ2AG508590
Engine #18V883AEL044404
Last Service12-07-2017
RestoredYes, undocumented
Engine RebuildYes, undocumented
MOT05-07-2019
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
Former Keepers9
Tyre BrandFirestone
Tyre Age2013
# of Keys1
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned~3 years
Key FeatureFormer US LE-Spec car
Auction ID1264

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Vehicle Sold

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This vehicle has now been sold - click 'I Want One' below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

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Ask Questions

Seller : WilliamM Sale Date 19.04.2023

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

1 Comment

Kulraj Salh

Admin

1 year ago

Auction Update – The reserve on this auction has been met. It will be selling to the highest bidder this evening. Good luck if you’re involved in the bidding. Best, Kulraj – Trade Classics

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Vehicle Location

Gosport, Hampshire

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