1964 MG B Roadster

1964 MG B Roadster
Chassis no. GHN3L/51533
Engine no. 18GB-RU-H3197
1,789cc OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
2 SU Carburetors
95bhp at 5,400rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission with Overdrive
Front Independent Suspension - Live Rear Axle
Front Disc - Rear Drum Brakes

*Offered from the Robert "Bob" Koons Collection
*Highly original example with most of the factory paint and interior intact
*Long-time California car, with original owner for more than 4 decades
*Offered with Heritage Trust Certificate and owner's manual

THE MGB

Outstandingly successful despite, or perhaps because of, its relative simplicity, the perennially popular MGB remained in production for eighteen years, while rivals came and went. Conceived in the late 1950s and launched in 1962, the MGB was mechanically similar to the preceding MGA, though with unitary-construction bodyshell instead of its forbear's separate chassis. The existing four-cylinder B-Series engine was stretched to 1,798cc, while the MGB's aerodynamically efficient lines made the most of the 95bhp available to achieve a top speed which just bested the magic "ton." A "right first time" design that changed little over the years, the MGB had enjoyed sales totaling in excess of 500,000 cars by the time production ceased in 1980.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This lovely MGB was completed at the Abingdon-based MG factory during November of 1964. The left-hand drive Roadster was finished as it appears today, in a black exterior over a red interior, and destined for the US market. The new car was handsomely optioned with wire wheels, heater, full weather equipment, overdrive, oil cooler, and, most likely, the period radio fitted today. The black MGB is believed to have been sold new to a California-resident. From there the MGB was purchased by a Mr. Michael Bunney—from the original owner's family—in 2007. The car had spent a long period of climate-controlled storage in San Francisco. In 2012, the well-preserved MGB joined the renowned collection of the late Robert "Bob" Koons and has since been treated to devoted custodianship and maintenance, with careful consideration given to the car's originality. Today, this captivating MGB remains in unrestored condition, retaining much of the original paint, interior, and tonneau cover. It is a desirable "transition car," with the early pull-type door handles and the later five main bearing engine. The car retains its original black and yellow California license plates. With just over 73,000 miles on the odometer at the time of cataloging, this MGB an original and well-cared for example of the classic sports car.