1962 MG MGB

The MGB was introduced at the London Motor Show in 1962 and would become one of the most successful sports cars ever made. It replaced the MGA in 1963 and production of the MGB and its variants would continue until 1980. Combined sales of the MGB, MGC and MGB GT V8 totaled 523,836 cars.

MGB development began as early as 1958 with the prototype known by its Abingdon codename, MG EX205. Abingdon's long-awaited replacement for the MGA saw a shift away from the traditional construction technique of a separate chassis/body, to an all-new pressed-steel monocoque structure, which was light, strong, and had increased cockpit space. There were refinements such as door handles and wind-up windows for the first time, although a heater was still optional and the soft-top was rather rudimentary. The steering, suspension and back axle were sourced from BMC's parts bin. The three-bearing B-series four-cylinder engine was from BMC, using twin SU carburetors and offering nearly 100 horsepower at 5400 RPM. The engine was backed by a rugged four-speed gearbox and the option of Laycock overdrive on the third and top gears.

The MGB could go from zero-to-sixty mph in just over 11 seconds. In October of 1964, that figure dropped even further with the introduction of a five-bearing crankshaft. For 1975, the US-market MGB engines were de-tuned to comply with emissions standards. Ride height was increased by an inch, and rubber bumpers were added to meet bumper standards. The MGB was one of the first cars to have controlled crumple zones to protect driver and passenger in a 30 mph impact with an immovable barrier.

by Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2020