Picked up a '72 GT as my first car a couple of months ago... the clutch release bearing blew on the 10 miles drive home, sods law, but the parts have indeed all been readily available, not badly priced, and I've had the engine out of the car and been doing the job myself on the side of the road when the weather allows. In the brief period of time I've spent driving it so far, it's been smiles for miles and I have absolutely 0 regrets in buying mine. My driving instructors Hyundai I learnt in was a functional, almost clinical tin can on wheels with a computer disconnecting you from it. My MGB is a car. Sounds, smells, talks to you and has a character all of its own. Rust, on the other hand, is going to be the one thing you'll be forever chasing with an old MG though, sadly, but hey, at least as a new driver the insurance is about a third of any 1 litre modern offering!
What a great video! Thoroughly enjoyed it. I had an MG Midget when I was at University and loved it. Now retired I re-entered the market again in May and bought an MGB GT. The previous owner spared no expense in upgrading it and therefore I consider my self very lucky. I know that it may not have the investment appeal of other classics but I just love it and there is something very special driving an MG down an English country road. You managed to capture all of that in this video. Thank you.
With a 4/5 link system installed on the rear they in many ways beat the Triumph all independent setup. Which can break especially if you use the old rubber joints.
Paul...Had a BGT for 12 twelve years and absolutely loved it every minute of owning it. Had many many comments about how beautiful it was with the chorome wires on it.Even though I havent had it for over 10 years now would love to have it back even though I spent alot of time underneath it such a rewarding car to own.
Well done! As a former owner 43 yrs ago of a 68 gt chrome wire wheels with overdrive,header an bigger carbs and cam. Today Im seriously considering another MGB!
I’ve owned four BGT’s and they are great little cars. Later progressed onto TR6 then onto Porsche’s 928S2 Manual and 928S4 and I’ll always have a place in my ❤ for MGB’s. Currently driving a BMW Z4 and it gives me the same pleasure but with build quality and driving pleasure
I enjoyed your enthusiasm - and you nailed it with 'it's not fast, but it feels fast, and that's what matters.' I've been driving my 1972 Harvest Gold roadster since 1989 in all weathers - by 2020 it was in a sad state, but C*v*d gave me the opportunity for a big rebuild, body and mechanics, to original specs. Re-fitted a new interior myself with a LOUD stereo and a cassette head-unit with CD- and minidisc-changers in the boot (remember them?). They are not period, but I don't care - I couldn't be happier. And it ain't ever again going to see even one drop of rain. Ever. I'm done with rust. Cold don't bother me - I learned how to dress. But dry days only!
Great video but sent me looking at car websites for MGBs instead of working... was going to buy an MGB but as much as I like the GT styling i loved my roadster i had 30 years ago....not for its thirsty, slow engine and bad handling ...but driving in the elements roof down on a summer evening.....so as I couldn't make up my mind......i bought a P1800s...another 60s design influenced by Italians (Frua )..but without the engine it should have had ...it needed 6 cylinders to make it an awesome car....but it is rare and from most angles beautiful...when the bumpers are removed.....maybe a V8 would make it better...?
Years ago there was a manual out detailing the process of installing a Ford V8 into a P-1800. I once intended to install an Oldsmobile 3.5 into a P-1800E, had the car lined up and an engine in the basement. Plans changed, I relocated to another state, sold the engine, didn't buy the Volvo. I still think the P-1800s are beautiful cars.
Love this video. He asked parenthetically, Is it fast? No! But it feels fast.... miss my 73...last of the chrome bumpers with twin SU carbs. With the smog gear gone it was a joy to drive... like he said on an open road it never gets old.
I have an mgb gt, its fun, gorgeous, cheap, practical and bright yellow what's not to love looks a million pounds for nothing, makes your average peasent feel special 😂
Glorious video - thank you! I have owned Midgets, MGBs and MGBGTs as daily drivers - all so much fun. Some time now since I have owned an MG, but who knows...
Great video and great cars. I had a GT (the most beautiful for me) from 69, the best year, before the build quality started to decrease. They were over engineered at the time, for their first uni-body car they've done well. Based on the tiredness of the driving trains or engines, this could be a slow machine, but with proper items (even with stock ones), it can be driven hard. Of course in a car meeting this is not an head turner (like a 911 for example), but on the road, it is very appealing (not for SUV drivers which will only see the roof). And by the way, I also own a Chimaera, and this was not a punishment to switch from the TVR to the MG. Something also to add to the credit of the MG B, this is the gearbox, this is also a pleasant part of the car. I remember one day, having switched from the MG to a Peugeot 207, and I was shocked. How could a 50 years old vehicle have such a better gearchange than a modern one?
Thanks for the video - my 18 yr old daughter wants one! ...so I might be in the market. I think they look better without the over-riders and the front indicator/side light fittings seem to be the wrong way round - perhaps the indicator should be on the outside so it can be seen better at junctions?
I had a MGC. years ago and it’s totally different from the B. It’s a lot faster. 120 mph. And easy to drive because it’s a torquey engine. 146 bhp. 60 mph in about 9 seconds. I’ve had a lot of sports cars TR5 TR6s. But the best to drive was my 1975 Alfa spiders. 127 mph once. Good Acceleration. 60 in 8 seconds. But it drove fantastic the handling was great. Also had a few Lotus Elans. About the same speed as the Alfa and handling. If I was to get another MB. I would put a small block v8? Mustang. About 300 bhp. That would be fast. ❤
Paul, A wonderful overview of MG. My first car a 62 midget at 16. 70B that was traded for a brand new 74 BGT that I still have today. Have added a 57MGA that is a hoot to drive. Here in the USA V8s are hard to find. and most transform 1800 4s for the Buick V8 which are easy to find.
Great video , very informative and you made it look fun , have recently purchased a later mgbgt with some tasteful mods already done by previous owner. Now looking to go the whole hog and fit a rebuilt 3.9 matched to a lt77 5 speed box and a lsd upgraded ( correct ratio) rear axel. As you mentioned in the video re speed not a rocket ship but a fun way to use it. More of the same good to watch 20/ 25 mins perfect
I'm in the market for a good Bentley Continental R...but there are various editions from the J Barclay to Le Mans Etc.... I would love to see you do a run down on them and decide which would be the Best.
Never even entered my consideration at any time. The presenter uses the term " fish and chips", almost on the money as an MG B metaphor, but " baked beans" is even more precise. Triumph had superior styling, using the Italian genius , Micholotti, more sophisticated suspension,brakes and steering and, immeasurably, faster and more powerful. Particularly the TR 5 and 6, with their fuel injected and gorgeous straight six, left MGBs in their dust, out of the box. Spending the same amount of money on development, as you would to make the MGB half way decent, you had 200 bhp plus race and series winner ( see Kurt Kasnar's triumphs in the USA). Even the Rover V8 did not surpass. And keeping the perfect 50/50 weight distribution never achieved with the V 8 and years before. The same parts and support, there is. No contest with the three course cordon bless Triumph.
Long time Brit car owner and formerly worked for British Motors of Monterey, Calif. Official dealer for Rolls, Bentley, Aston Martin, Jag, MG Lotus, Austin Healy, Morris, Jensen etc I wanted a Triumph TR6 until I helped restore one ( this past 2 years) and drove one. That cured me.
@@jeffhildreth9244 So Kurt Kasnar was a dupe, eh? All those national titles won with the TR 6 merely fairy floss, not to mention Paul Neeman using one to win a national title at 82 years old. I doubt your restoration story .
@@oweneather1435 What a rude, asinine reply. I made no mention of any one individual. Your response appears to be an attempt at elevating your status at the expense of another of whom you have absolutely no knowledge. That was my opinion and my experience, and I'll reaffirm it. I don't like the TR6, either to work on them or drive them. You can doubt all you want.. all fact. Two years, frame off. The owner has 5 other Brit cars. He now has the TR6 up for sale. PS Brit Mtrs of Monterey did not carry Triumph because the owner.. Jack Flaherty, former professional racer to include MG at Sebring etc. did not like them. Since you seem to need attention, you can have the last word.
@jeffhildreth9244 Kasnar, in case you, as an American with vast British car knowledge I thought would know, was a well known tuner and racer of Triumph cars, especially TR 6s. Paul Newman winning a national title in one at 83 is , I would offer, a fairly solid affirmation of that model's suitability for accomplished specialists who only select vehicles up to the job. Such spluttering, vituperative and personal insults. I am shattered. But, three years to restore a TR 6? My TR 5, frame off, engine rebuild, full repaint and total mechanical refurbishment - three months with someone who knew what they were doing. I also had the same engineer fully refurbish a 1938 Lagonda V 12, a type he had never seen before - six weeks to road worthy brisk running and usability. Draw your own conclusions. Spare me your inadequacies.
Picked up a '72 GT as my first car a couple of months ago... the clutch release bearing blew on the 10 miles drive home, sods law, but the parts have indeed all been readily available, not badly priced, and I've had the engine out of the car and been doing the job myself on the side of the road when the weather allows. In the brief period of time I've spent driving it so far, it's been smiles for miles and I have absolutely 0 regrets in buying mine.
My driving instructors Hyundai I learnt in was a functional, almost clinical tin can on wheels with a computer disconnecting you from it. My MGB is a car. Sounds, smells, talks to you and has a character all of its own.
Rust, on the other hand, is going to be the one thing you'll be forever chasing with an old MG though, sadly, but hey, at least as a new driver the insurance is about a third of any 1 litre modern offering!
What a great video! Thoroughly enjoyed it. I had an MG Midget when I was at University and loved it. Now retired I re-entered the market again in May and bought an MGB GT. The previous owner spared no expense in upgrading it and therefore I consider my self very lucky. I know that it may not have the investment appeal of other classics but I just love it and there is something very special driving an MG down an English country road. You managed to capture all of that in this video. Thank you.
I love my MGBs!
With a 4/5 link system installed on the rear they in many ways beat the Triumph all independent setup. Which can break especially if you use the old rubber joints.
Paul...Had a BGT for 12 twelve years and absolutely loved it every minute of owning it. Had many many comments about how beautiful it was with the chorome wires on it.Even though I havent had it for over 10 years now would love to have it back even though I spent alot of time underneath it such a rewarding car to own.
Should have driven a mass produced, unmodified car, for a more realistic review. It's what most people will be looking to buy!
Agreed... One stock, one partially modified and one over the top.
I currently have a 63 MGB.
Well done! As a former owner 43 yrs ago of a 68 gt chrome wire wheels with overdrive,header an bigger carbs and cam. Today Im seriously considering another MGB!
I’ve owned four BGT’s and they are great little cars. Later progressed onto TR6 then onto Porsche’s 928S2 Manual and 928S4 and I’ll always have a place in my ❤ for MGB’s. Currently driving a BMW Z4 and it gives me the same pleasure but with build quality and driving pleasure
I think Britain's all time favourite is the E Type Jaguar but an MG is more affordable.
Enjoyed this. My first car was a MG Midget. It be great to get a similar video on the Lotus Elan from the same period.
I enjoyed your enthusiasm - and you nailed it with 'it's not fast, but it feels fast, and that's what matters.'
I've been driving my 1972 Harvest Gold roadster since 1989 in all weathers - by 2020 it was in a sad state, but C*v*d gave me the opportunity for a big rebuild, body and mechanics, to original specs. Re-fitted a new interior myself with a LOUD stereo and a cassette head-unit with CD- and minidisc-changers in the boot (remember them?). They are not period, but I don't care - I couldn't be happier.
And it ain't ever again going to see even one drop of rain. Ever. I'm done with rust.
Cold don't bother me - I learned how to dress. But dry days only!
Great video but sent me looking at car websites for MGBs instead of working... was going to buy an MGB but as much as I like the GT styling i loved my roadster i had 30 years ago....not for its thirsty, slow engine and bad handling ...but driving in the elements roof down on a summer evening.....so as I couldn't make up my mind......i bought a P1800s...another 60s design influenced by Italians (Frua )..but without the engine it should have had ...it needed 6 cylinders to make it an awesome car....but it is rare and from most angles beautiful...when the bumpers are removed.....maybe a V8 would make it better...?
Years ago there was a manual out detailing the process of installing a Ford V8 into a P-1800. I once intended to install an Oldsmobile 3.5 into a P-1800E, had the car lined up and an engine in the basement. Plans changed, I relocated to another state, sold the engine, didn't buy the Volvo. I still think the P-1800s are beautiful cars.
Just found out my neighbour has a Rover V8 engine sat in his garage.......may need a bit of researching.
Love this video. He asked parenthetically, Is it fast? No! But it feels fast.... miss my 73...last of the chrome bumpers with twin SU carbs. With the smog gear gone it was a joy to drive... like he said on an open road it never gets old.
Bought my first 'B' in 1966. 2nd, in 1992... I will never be without another one!!
Mad that they didnt export the v8 to the states
I have an mgb gt, its fun, gorgeous, cheap, practical and bright yellow what's not to love looks a million pounds for nothing, makes your average peasent feel special 😂
I really miss MGB due to your great video. Thank you so much😢😢😢
It would be great to see a similar video about the ADO16.
Three do fit and extra fun if you use your imagination after midnight
Long live lead mallets!
Glorious video - thank you! I have owned Midgets, MGBs and MGBGTs as daily drivers - all so much fun. Some time now since I have owned an MG, but who knows...
Short answer to the 'why oh why' question - BL's shortage of V8 engines spread across lots of applications.
It’s certainly not mine
13:00 Yep, it went from a Mid Front car to a Front engine car is why. Mid Fronts are what Ferrari used as well as Jag etc. on front engine cars.
Great video and great cars. I had a GT (the most beautiful for me) from 69, the best year, before the build quality started to decrease. They were over engineered at the time, for their first uni-body car they've done well. Based on the tiredness of the driving trains or engines, this could be a slow machine, but with proper items (even with stock ones), it can be driven hard. Of course in a car meeting this is not an head turner (like a 911 for example), but on the road, it is very appealing (not for SUV drivers which will only see the roof). And by the way, I also own a Chimaera, and this was not a punishment to switch from the TVR to the MG. Something also to add to the credit of the MG B, this is the gearbox, this is also a pleasant part of the car. I remember one day, having switched from the MG to a Peugeot 207, and I was shocked. How could a 50 years old vehicle have such a better gearchange than a modern one?
Thanks for the video - my 18 yr old daughter wants one! ...so I might be in the market.
I think they look better without the over-riders and the front indicator/side light fittings seem to be the wrong way round - perhaps the indicator should be on the outside so it can be seen better at junctions?
I have owned a 1968 MGB in the 1970's when I was in my twenties. I an now in my late 60's and I own a 2023 Mazda MX-5 GT. Any questions? :)
Nice job Paul, Lotus Elan S4 next please, although not sure you'll fit in! So 240z if not 👍
Electric power steering and points to a hydraulic pump doh
MK2 Escort is the most favourite surely judging the silly prices they fetch.
Supply and demand push prices, there are more MGBs in existence than all versions of the Escort put together and 6 times as many MGBs as Mk2 escorts
Which is weird because a mk2 escort is pig ugly compared to a mk1 escort and mgb
I’ve watched quite a few of Paul’s videos now, and I’m still waiting to disagree with something he says.
A few minor mis-steps, such as "monocoque"... which the MGB is not. It is a unibody.. no they are not the same.
But, over all very good video.
Terrible reliability.
I had a MGC. years ago and it’s totally different from the B. It’s a lot faster. 120 mph. And easy to drive because it’s a torquey engine. 146 bhp. 60 mph in about 9 seconds. I’ve had a lot of sports cars TR5 TR6s. But the best to drive was my 1975 Alfa spiders. 127 mph once. Good Acceleration. 60 in 8 seconds. But it drove fantastic the handling was great. Also had a few Lotus Elans. About the same speed as the Alfa and handling. If I was to get another MB. I would put a small block v8? Mustang. About 300 bhp. That would be fast. ❤
Paul, A wonderful overview of MG. My first car a 62 midget at 16. 70B that was traded for a brand new 74 BGT that I still have today. Have added a 57MGA that is a hoot to drive. Here in the USA V8s are hard to find. and most transform 1800 4s for the Buick V8 which are easy to find.
I want one!
Great cars.
Great video , very informative and you made it look fun , have recently purchased a later mgbgt with some tasteful mods already done by previous owner. Now looking to go the whole hog and fit a rebuilt 3.9 matched to a lt77 5 speed box and a lsd upgraded ( correct ratio) rear axel. As you mentioned in the video re speed not a rocket ship but a fun way to use it. More of the same good to watch 20/ 25 mins perfect
I'm in the market for a good Bentley Continental R...but there are various editions from the J Barclay to Le Mans Etc.... I would love to see you do a run down on them and decide which would be the Best.
Great film. You chat away so well full of sensible suggestions and knowledge! Ace
Surly the pull handle is a rare beast also, many were scrapped as parts availability was scarce compared to 66 cars onwards
They skyrocketed in price in the past 4 years. It's insane.
My life time dream. In blue red brg yellow or Black
I had a 64 MGB, wish I still had it.
Its one of my fav classics. the V8 of this car is then pinnacle.
It would be if it had a small block v8 mustang engine about 300 bhp.
Great video!!
Never even entered my consideration at any time. The presenter uses the term " fish and chips", almost on the money as an MG B metaphor, but " baked beans" is even more precise. Triumph had superior styling, using the Italian genius , Micholotti, more sophisticated suspension,brakes and steering and, immeasurably, faster and more powerful. Particularly the TR 5 and 6, with their fuel injected and gorgeous straight six, left MGBs in their dust, out of the box. Spending the same amount of money on development, as you would to make the MGB half way decent, you had 200 bhp plus race and series winner ( see Kurt Kasnar's triumphs in the USA). Even the Rover V8 did not surpass. And keeping the perfect 50/50 weight distribution never achieved with the V 8 and years before. The same parts and support, there is. No contest with the three course cordon bless Triumph.
Long time Brit car owner and formerly worked for British Motors of Monterey, Calif. Official dealer for Rolls, Bentley, Aston Martin, Jag, MG Lotus, Austin Healy, Morris, Jensen etc
I wanted a Triumph TR6 until I helped restore one ( this past 2 years) and drove one. That cured me.
@@jeffhildreth9244 So Kurt Kasnar was a dupe, eh? All those national titles won with the TR 6 merely fairy floss, not to mention Paul Neeman using one to win a national title at 82 years old.
I doubt your restoration story .
@@oweneather1435 What a rude, asinine reply. I made no mention of any one individual.
Your response appears to be an attempt at elevating your status at the expense of another of whom you have absolutely no knowledge.
That was my opinion and my experience, and I'll reaffirm it. I don't like the TR6, either to work on them or drive them.
You can doubt all you want.. all fact. Two years, frame off. The owner has 5 other Brit cars. He now has the TR6 up for sale.
PS Brit Mtrs of Monterey did not carry Triumph because the owner.. Jack Flaherty, former professional racer to include MG at Sebring etc. did not like them.
Since you seem to need attention, you can have the last word.
@jeffhildreth9244 Kasnar, in case you, as an American with vast British car knowledge I thought would know, was a well known tuner and racer of Triumph cars, especially TR 6s. Paul Newman winning a national title in one at 83 is , I would offer, a fairly solid affirmation of that model's suitability for accomplished specialists who only select vehicles up to the job.
Such spluttering, vituperative and personal insults. I am shattered. But, three years to restore a TR 6? My TR 5, frame off, engine rebuild, full repaint and total mechanical refurbishment - three months with someone who knew what they were doing. I also had the same engineer fully refurbish a 1938 Lagonda V 12, a type he had never seen before - six weeks to road worthy brisk running and usability. Draw your own conclusions.
Spare me your inadequacies.
@@jeffhildreth9244 Kastner - my humble apologies for misspelling.
Yes.
No.
Is the MGB Britain's Favourite Classic? No
There, that was easy, and it didn't take me newly half an hour to answer your question.
Bye
Nope
I love my Kia more, sorry.
I love toilet paper. It's very useful just like your Kia.
Jesus christ Richard 😂😂😂
@@alexpanting4177 😁
They would be a great car with 150 bhp. Otherwise they are very slow and not nice to drive really. Nice looking car though.
Nope. They were rubbish when new.
I think your comment is rubbish….
Why have you bothered to watch this then 🤡
How many have you owned ?
I suggest you were the wrong owner, assuming you did own one.
@@lascm5237 I suggest another ill informed snob , or likely has never owned one. And, if they did, wrong owner.
You have never driven a MGB …..,
They would be a great car with 150 bhp. Otherwise they are very slow and not nice to drive really. Nice looking car though.