1972 MG MGB

Description

There aren't many better ways to get into a British roadster than this 1972 MGB convertible. Classic good looks in a car that doesn't cost a fortune to acquire or maintain, it's the ideal vintage roadster for the purist who prefers the old fashioned way of doing things.

Sure, the B was archaic by 1972, but that's all part of its charm, and with delicate chrome bumpers, the early cars have an entirely different look than their rubber-snouted younger siblings. With that in mind, this 1972 model is the one you want: clean and straight with all the good stuff already on board. The Bronze Yellow paint looks quite good and is an older repaint, but if that's the case, you know this car has always been loved. For that you can thank 40 years of proper care plus an owner who actually cared about appearances, even on this very affordable roadster. The bodywork underneath is quite nice, too, with straight panels and no sign of the dreaded tin worm, for which these cars were notorious. The doors fit well, the hood opens effortlessly, and there's a purity of line that the later cars just can't match. Of course, those chrome bumpers that make this one of the more desirable Bs are in excellent shape, as is the grille, which is protected by a set of rubber-lined bumper guards that actually look quite sporting.

Classic accommodations for two can be found inside the cozy MGB, but once you're behind the wheel you'll discover that there's plenty of room and the driving position is quite good. The 3-spoke steering wheel looks suitably racy and will go great with your string-backed driving gloves, and the shifter falls readily to hand under spirited driving. Wood was gone by 1972, but the classic Smiths instruments remain, giving a tantalizing glimpse into history. The black bucket seats are comfortable and supportive for spirited driving, and the engine's energetic exhaust note was reportedly copied by Mazda for the original Miata. The trunk is basic, but carries a matching wire wheel and spare tire, a set of tools, and a set of neatly fitted carpets to make it look finished. Overhead you get a folding vinyl top that's older but still quite presentable, and it stows in seconds under a matching boot that gives the B a dashing profile.

The engine is the same rugged, reliable 1798 cc inline-four that propelled MGs for years, but why mess with a good thing? Thanks to a single carburetor and basic ignition system, maintenance can be performed with a screwdriver, and it has a satisfyingly fat torque curve that makes the car feel quick and agile around town. It's nicely restored under the bonnet, too, with lots of new gear, correct replacement parts, and a look of having been loved all its life. The 4-speed manual is a joy to shift, especially with pedals easily placed for heel-and-toe maneuvers, and you may find yourself dropping down a gear in tunnels just to hear its brawny exhaust note. Braking is confident and handling competent thanks to the car's size and low center of gravity. And, of course, attractive wire wheels have been fitted wearing 185/70/14 radials which are surely worlds better than the original Dunlops.

There's no better way to have fun with the top down than a vintage British roadster. Take this MGB home today!