1970 MG MGB Roadster

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Introduced in 1962 by the British Motor Corporation (BMC), the MGB was designed as a successor to the MGA. By 1970, the MGB had already established itself as a popular and affordable sports car, known for its stylish design, reliable performance, and enjoyable driving experience. 

The 1970 model year brought several updates and improvements to the MGB. One of the most notable changes was the introduction of the split rear bumper, which was designed to accommodate the new recessed rear license plate. This design change gave the car a more modern and streamlined appearance. 

Under the hood, the 1970 MGB was powered by a 1.8-liter inline-four engine, producing around 92 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. The car's handling was further enhanced by its independent front suspension and rear leaf springs. Inside, the 1970 MGB featured a simple yet functional interior with bucket seats and a straightforward dashboard layout. The car was also equipped with a heater, a welcome addition for drivers in cooler climates. 

The owner of this 1970 MG MGB Roadster has given it multiple upgrades, including a new GPS digital speedometer, voltmeter, clock, black top, MWS knockoff wire wheels, and tires. In addition, the engine was rebuilt by the previous owner about 8,000 miles ago. 

Highlights 

• Refinished (in the early 2000s) in white paint over black vinyl interior 

• Powered by a professionally rebuilt 1.8-liter inline-four engine with twin SU HS4 carburetors, rated at 94 hp (driven approximately 8,000 miles since rebuild) 

• Rebuilt distributor (Advanced Distributors) 

• Four-speed manual transmission 

• Upgrades under current ownership: 

  • New GPS digital speedometer, voltmeter, and clock 

  • New black top with zip out rear window on refurbished folding top frame 

  • New MWS knockoff wire wheels and Dunlop Sport Classic 175/80R14 tires 

  • Recently given new fluids and fresh oil and filter

• The chassis number (GHN5UA203581G) decodes as: 

  • G – Morris Garages (MG) 

  • H – BMC B-Series 1.8L engine 

  • N – Two-seat roadster 

  • 5 – Mk3 series 

  • U – U.S. market with left-hand drive 

  • A – 1969-70 model 

  • 203581 – Sequential production number 

  • G – Abingdon, England, assembly plant 

Features 

• Heater 

• 7000 rpm tachometer and gauges for fuel, oil pressure, and coolant temperature 

• Center console with alternator gauge and clock added where radio was originally installed 

Known Imperfections 

• Several small paint chips 

• Crack on passenger door just above mirror 

• Two small dents on trunk/boot lid 

• Paint chips in trunk 

• Paint imperfections and light corrosion on underside, commensurate with the age of the vehicle 

Included 

• Spare tire mounted on wire wheel 

• Jack and knock-off hammer  

• Luggage rack 

• Black Tonneau cover 

• Grille inner chrome ring 

• Stock air cleaners 

• Original speedometer and cable 

• Tattered maintenance and repair manual 

Ownership History 

The Virginia seller of this 1970 MG MGB Roadster has owned it since May 2023. “A very nice weekend cruiser MGB. Extremely clean inside and out. Runs and drives great. Original speedometer was non-operative when purchased; replaced with GPS speedometer. For old schoolers: The engine has no knocks, no smoke, minimal oil drops, 70-75 psi hot oil pressure, never overheats.”