1980 MG MGB MK IV Roadster

The MGB Roadster was introduced in 1962 as a replacement for the MGA. In 1965, a Pininfarina of Italy designed GT Coupe version arrived. It had a fastback bodyshell and two occasional rear seats which, when folded flat, offered a generous load platform accessible via the rear tailgate. The GT was fitted with a robust five-bearing B-Series engine. During its production lifespan, over 125,000 examples of the MGB GT were built.

MG introduced the MKII model in 1967. This version came with an updated manual gearbox with revised ratios and synchromesh on all gears. An optional Borg-Warner automatic unit was available. Other changes included a revised rear axle and a switch from dynamos to alternators.

In 1969, Rostyle wheels replaced the prior pressed steel versions as standard equipment.

In 1972, the MKIII version was introduced. It has a new fascia and an improved heater.

In 1974, the MGB received its biggest visual change when steel-reinforced rubber bumpers replaced the chrome ones. The ride height was also raised by one inch.

1980 was the last year for the MGB Roadster and 399,070 examples were said to have been produced during an 18 year period with the United States being the predominant market. In commemoration of the final year of production, British Leyland introduced a USA version Limited Edition All Black equipped with special and unique features in 1980. They had a front air dam spoiler, special L.E. (Limited Edition) five-spoke alloy wheels (similar to a Triumph Stag) with MG hub center appliques, a three-spoke steering wheel with a special center hub, silver lower body stripes, and a luggage rack. A Limited-Edition dash plaque was installed on the glove box.

This particular example is a Limited Edition MGB Roadster. Its odometer currently shows just 6,000 miles. It has its original paint and interior.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2017