1973 MGB GT V8 COUPE Registration Number: TYN 876M Chassis ...

Estimate

£18,000 - £23,000

1973 MGB GT V8 COUPE

Registration Number: TYN 876M
Chassis Number: GB75D000175P
Recorded Mileage: 17,000 miles

The MGB was first introduced in May 1962 as a direct replacement for the MGA. Performance was brisk with power supplied by a 1798cc four cylinder iron block engine set within a monocoque lightweight body shell with crumple zones incorporated. October 1965 saw the introduction of the GT and was based on the already popular roadster. Designed by Pininfarina, the new GT sported a hatchback giving useful access to the rear luggage space and a rear bench seat that enabled the car to be called a 2+2. Although acceleration was slightly slower than the roadster, top speed was better by 5mph due to the increased aerodynamic efficiency. 

Ken Costello saw the possibility of fitting the larger aluminium 3528cc Rover P5B engine into the MGB GT having been sure that the handling and braking could be made to match the much improved performance; not that it needed significant changes as the V8 weighed in at around 40 pounds lighter than the four cylinder iron blocked engine it replaced. Space was not a problem as the car had originally been designed for fitment of a V4 that was never produced. It was not until two years after the first Costello car that MG decided to follow suit, producing almost 3000 examples between 1973 and 1976.

The 52nd car off the factory production run in 1973, this super chrome-bumpered V8 GT was registered to its first owner in August of 1973, finished in a very period shade of Bracken with a matching velour interior.

In the intervening years we understand the MG has covered an incredible 17,000 miles from new with just four owners. Now part of a large classic car collection, the MG has been carefully stored and used very lightly. The paintwork presents very well with only very slight blemishes, the engine bay is complete and correct and in very clean order. The interior is completely original and excellent, fitted with a period-correct radio-cassette player.

These hugely enjoyable small GT cars sound fantastic, and go just as well. We are sure this will be an enjoyable and rewarding classic for the next owner to cherish. The MG is offered with older MoT certificates, blue log book and original handbook.