1973 MG MG B

Equipment

Indigo Blue paintwork, Black leatherette upholstery, 4-speed manual transmission with overdrive, Soft-top in black vinyl, Full tonneau in black vinyl, Wire wheels, Moto-Lita wooden steering wheel, Wooden gear knob, Radio, MG rubber overmats, Headrests, Cigar lighter, Ash tray, Lockable glove compartment, Maintenance charger, Spare wheel.

Exterior

particular example still presents to a very high standard. After a machine polish by our in-house detailer the paintwork is deeply glossy, and we’re pleased to note even panel gaps all round. The black vinyl hood is supple and free from damage, and for additional flexibility a full tonneau is also present. The brightwork throughout is excellent and none of the rubbers show any signs of perishing. The underside is also remarkably clean with no corrosion issues or unsightly black underseal.

Interior

The black leatherette seats remain in fine order with only a few very light surface creases to evidence any use. The complementing black door cards, centre console, and dashboard are also very well presented with no damage or marking to any of the plastics. The wooden Moto-Lita steering wheel and gear knob both feel great in hand, and in the footwells the carpets are well protected by MG rubber overmats. The boot carpet is also excellent with no stains to report.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

In July 2024 the car was treated to a £2k shakedown and service including a new steering rack, new rear wheel cylinders, a new gearbox rear output seal, rear axle pinion seal, exhaust mountings, track rod ends, a new radiator hose, coolant change, 4-wheel alignment, and MOT test – all carried out by a trusted classic car specialist. The car further benefits from a recent engine tune and brake adjustment for the next owner’s peace of mind. The advisory-free MOT is valid until July 2025.

Out on the road it’s an absolute pleasure to drive, especially with the top down. The engine pulls really well, the gearbox feels tight and precise, and the factory overdrive system works exactly as it should. Brilliant parts availability, owners club support, and mechanical simplicity offer worry-free classic motoring allowing the next owner to concentrate solely on enjoyment.

History File

Supplied new by John C Beadle Limited in Kent, this beautiful MG B was first registered in August 1973. 31 years later it was fully restored by Chertsey-based specialists, Southern Classics. The owner of the car at the time was Visage front man, Steve Strange, who commissioned the restoration. Costing more than £31k (not an insignificant sum back in 2004), the work included a full repaint in attractive Indigo Blue (JEB-301), the re-plating of various components, and a thorough mechanical overhaul including a full engine rebuild – all invoiced in the accompanying history file.

The car has driven around 12,600 miles since then and still looks fantastic with invoices in the paperwork documenting its maintenance history to date. Fresh from a full mechanical check over and tune up the MG also benefits from a recent £2k service and shakedown as detailed above.