1977 MG B 'Rubber Nose' Roadster

The evergreen MGB is, quite simply, the most popular sports car ever made in Britain and still has tremendous appeal today as an affordable, practical and thoroughly enjoyable two-seater. First seen in 1962, the monocoque-chassis MGB had plenty going for it right from the outset – gutsy performance from the willing 1800cc B-series engine, a sweet four-speed box, safe, predictable handling and very attractive styling. Although the original MGB was a resounding success, there was still room for improvement and the Mark II announced in 1967 added a much-needed fully synchromesh gearbox and revised electrics, with an alternator replacing the dynamo fitted to earlier cars. Further changes were necessitated by new safety rules, including the collapsible steering column and padded dashboard. The MGB was further refined in 1969, with new Rostyle wheels, seats and a matt black front grille, while a redesigned folding hood, smaller diameter steering wheel and much better heater made the car easier to live with after 1970. MG made further changes to the B during the 1970s, including the controversial black rubber bumpers mandated by American safety legislation, new wheels and revised suspension. Following criticism of the compromised handling – a legacy of the raised ride height – British Leyland added an anti-roll bar to the rear end in 1976, while the interior was improved with an updated facia, the pedals relocated to allow proper ‘heel and toeing’ and seats trimmed in cloth. The MGB was, to many, one of the last real British sports cars on the market and remains hugely popular today, with owners well catered for by specialists and clubs around the country.