1978 MG MGB Roadster

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The MG MGB offers one of the most rewarding classic driving experiences available at any price point, and with over half a million produced during its production run between 1962 and 1980, the MGB Roadster remains the best-selling British sports car of all time. Over its 18-year run, the MGB evolved through a series of mechanical, safety, and emissions updates, particularly for the North American market. Rubber impact *bumpers were introduced in 1974 to meet U.S. regulations, becoming a defining feature of later cars.

This ‘78 example is finished in Pageant Blue over beige vinyl upholstery and is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-four linked to a four-speed manual transmission with overdrive. A Crane Cams Fireball XR700 ignition module has been installed, and additional details include a black soft top, silver side stripes, 14” wire-spoke knock-off wheels, black rubber impact bumpers, a luggage rack, power-assisted front disc brakes, and an AM/FM/8-track stereo.

The car was acquired in September 2023 by the seller, who has provided engine compression test images, and notes work under their care has included an overhaul of the carburetor, installation of an aluminum radiator, and replacement of the head gasket, water pump, thermostat, spark plugs, ignition wires, and exhaust system components as well as various other items described below.

This 1978 MG MGB roadster is now offered at no reserve with service records, a repair manual, a knockoff wheel tool, and a clean New Mexico title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• Pageant Blue with silver side stripes

• Beige vinyl upholstery with black carpeting

• Passenger side map pocket

• Black soft top with folding frame

• 14” wire-spoke knock-off wheels

Factory Equipment

• 1.8-liter inline-four

• Single Zenith-Stromberg carburetor

• Four-speed manual transmission with overdrive

• Power-assisted front disc brakes

• Rear luggage rack

Modifications

• Crane Cams Fireball XR700 ignition module

• Alpine speakers

Servicing & Documentation

Per the seller, the cylinder head was machined, the valves were reground, the carburetor was rebuilt, and an aluminum radiator was installed under current ownership in addition to replacement of the following:

• Thermostat, water pump, and hoses

• Electric cooling fan motor

• Cylinder head and oil pan gaskets

• Overdrive filter and cover gasket

• Clutch slave cylinder and hoses

• Hand brake cable

• Heater box gaskets and seals

• Heater control valve and cable

• Distributor cap and rotor

• Ignition coil, spark plugs and plug wire set

• EGR valve and air pump check valve

• Voltage stabilizer

• Exhaust system (including new catalytic converter)

• Seat belts, sun visors, and radio antenna

Photos of compression test results are provided in the gallery.

Known Imperfections

• Cracked dashboard

• Convertible top needs replaced

• Torn driver’s door capping

• Scratch in right door decal

• Tree sap damage on right rear trunk lid

Ownership History

The car was acquired by the seller in September 2023.

Included Items

• Service records

• Repair manual

• Miscellaneous spare parts

• Jack

• Knockoff wheel tool

Additional Information

• From the seller: “this 1978 MGB Mark III Roadster has been garage-kept since new and retains its original Pageant Blue finish with complimentary silver side decals and champagne (tan) vinyl interior. Dealer-optioned 14" wire wheels are also original to the car, as is the 1.8-liter inline-four engine and four speed manual transmission with electric overdrive. Stopping power is provided by vacuum-boosted front disc and rear drum brakes, and the steering is rack-and-pinion type. It has a factory-installed chrome luggage rack as well as a locking glove box and a center console storage compartment.”