1969 MG MGC Roadster

Description

The MG MGC was a short-lived but notable model in the MG lineup, produced between 1967 and 1969. It was intended to replace the Austin-Healey 3000, which had become outdated by the mid-1960s. The MGC was based on the MGB, but it featured significant modifications to accommodate its larger engine.

Under the hood, the MGC — available in both roadster and GT (coupe) forms — housed a 2912 cc inline-six engine capable of producing 150 horsepower, a substantial performance boost over the MGB’s four-cylinder engine. However, the added weight of the larger engine required changes to the car's suspension and handling characteristics.

Production of the MGC was relatively short, with only around 9,000 units built. The model was discontinued in 1969 in the midst of the merger that created British Leyland and required a reorganization of the company's product lineup. Despite its brief production run, the MGC’s rarity and unique place in MG's history make it an intriguing addition for sports car enthusiasts.

This ’69 MGC Roadster, painted British Racing Green, received an engine rebuild in 2004. It has been owned and driven regularly by its Texas owner since 2011. 

Highlights 

• Finished in British Racing Green paint over black interior with leather seats and tan door trim 

• Powered by a 2912 cc inline-six engine with twin SU carburetors rated at 150 horsepower 

• Engine rebuild in 2004 included lightening the flywheel by 11 pounds to enhance performance and installing an electronic Mallory Unilite distributor 

• Replaced original brake boosters with new aftermarket boosters in 2022 

• Four-speed manual transmission 

• The chassis number (GCN1U7950G) decodes as: 

  • G – MG 

  • C – MGC model 

  • N – Two-seat roadster 

  • 1 – North America LHD 

  • U – 2912 cc inline-six engine 

  • 7950 – Production number 

  • G – Abingdon assembly plant 

 Features 

• Black convertible top 

• Chrome bumpers with overriders 

• Luggage rack 

• 15-inch spoked wheels 

• Vredestein Sprint Classic 185/70R15 tires 

• Dash instrumentation: 140 mph speedometer and odometer, 7000 rpm tachometer, and gauges for coolant temperature, oil pressure, and fuel 

• AM/FM radio 

• Vent windows 

 Known Imperfections 

• Multiple paint chips, scratches, and scuffs on the original paint, commensurate with the age of the vehicle 

• Small rust bubble (approximately 3 inches in diameter) on the passenger door; it has not grown in size since the owner purchased the car in 2011 

• Minor oil leak 

 Included 

• Spare tire (Vredestein 165R15 86S) with cover 

• Jack 

• Wire wheel removal tools 

• Tonneau cover and convertible top cover 

• Original head rests 

• MGC shop manual with notes and another similar manual 

• New unused parts: 

  • Spare coil 

  • Water pump 

  • Fuel pump 

  • Clutch master cylinder 

  • Thermostats 

  • NGK BP6ES spark plugs (6) 

  • Windscreen wipers (3) 

  • Head gasket set 

  • Oil pan gasket 

  • Valve cover gasket 

  • Side plate gaskets and other miscellaneous gaskets 

Ownership History

The Texas owner of this 1969 MG MGC Roadster bought it in September 2011. “This roadster has been a great driver for me. It's a fine long-distance runner, and I have participated in numerous British car club rallies throughout New Mexico and Colorado. Other than replacing the original brake boosters in 2022, I have otherwise kept the same equipment that came with the car when I purchased it. Repairs have been minor and routine.”