1974 MG MGB Mk III Roadster

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Produced by British Leyland, the MGB had already established itself as a beloved sports car (since its debut in 1962) and was known for its affordability, simplicity, and engaging driving experience. The 1974 MG MGB was a transitional year for this iconic British roadster, as designers and engineers were tasked with blending classic styling with the first wave of regulatory changes in the U.S. 

The ’74 MGB Mark III featured a 1.8-liter inline-four engine producing around 80 horsepower — a slight drop from earlier years due to tightening U.S. emissions standards. Twin SU carburetors were still in use until late in the year, when U.S. models began transitioning to a single Zenith-Stromberg carburetor.  

Visually, 1974 MGB was split into two distinct styles. Early models retained the chrome bumpers with large black rubber overriders — nicknamed “Sabrinas” — while later models received the now-famous black rubber bumpers and a raised ride height to comply with U.S. safety regulations. 

Despite these changes, the 1974 MGB remained a spirited and stylish roadster that offered a balance of vintage charm and modern practicality. This well-maintained Mk III Roadster received a full restoration in 2008-09, with the only non-stock changes being the silver paint and wheels. 

Highlights 

• Finished in silver paint over black vinyl interior 

• Powered by a 1.8-liter inline-four engine with twin SU carburetors rated at 79 hp 

• Four-speed manual transmission 

• Chrome bumpers with vertical bumper guards 

• Restoration in 2008-09 (2,000 miles since) included: 

  • Rebuilt 1.8-liter inline-four engine with twin SU carburetors 

  • Rebuilt four-speed manual transmission with overdrive 

  • Rebuilt rear axle 

  • Refinished in silver paint 

  • Reupholstered interior and new dashboard 

  • Painted BMW Titanium Silver wheels with silver powder coat 

• The chassis number (GHN5UE335833G) decodes as: 

  • G – MG (Morris Garages) 

  • H – 1.8-liter inline-four B-Series engine 

  • N – Two-door roadster 

  • 5 – Mark III 

  • U – U.S. specifications 

  • E – 1974 model year 

  • 335833 – Sequential production number 

  • G – Abingdon, U.K., assembly plant 

Features 

• Bucket seats with seat belts 

• AM/FM/CD stereo 

• 120 mph speedometer and 7,000 rpm tachometer 

• 14-inch alloy wheels 

• Falken Ziex ZE 512 185/65R14 tires 

• Front disc, rear drum brakes 

• Independent front suspension with coil springs and lever-arm shocks 

• Live axle rear suspension with leaf springs and lever-arm shocks 

Known Imperfections 

• Some patina on original brightwork 

• Paint loss and minor paint chips below front bumper 

• Stress crack with paint loss near passenger mirror 

• Paint bubble on lower portion of passenger door 

• Paint is touched up on passenger side top/rear (does not show due to top cover and tonneau) 

• Speedometer needs re-magnetizing 

• Wiper self-park switch does not function properly 

• Audio system is inoperable because there are no speakers 

Included 

• Spare tire 

• Jack 

• Car cover 

Ownership History 

The Maine seller of this 1974 MG MGB has owned it since 2001. The consignor says, “Every component was rebuilt and/or serviced [in 2008-09 restoration], but since the car has been driven regularly in dry weather, a few items do require attention, such as a couple of small paint imperfections. Top is new and installed, but it has never been stretched — you’ll need a hot day and a couple of hours to fit. Starts, runs, and drives beautifully.”