1967 MG B Roadster Extensively uprated by Oselli

Lot details Registration No: LBW 888E Chassis No: GHN399414 MOT: February 2025 Acquired by previous keeper, E.F. Williams Esq, in 1980 and cherished across the next four decades Treated to much work by Brown & Gammons in the 1980s and an Oselli conversion during 2003 'Stage 2' 1995cc engine, sports recliner seats, alloy bonnet, uprated front discs, honed suspesnion etc Chrome bumper looks but with enhanced performance and handling capabilities Introduced in 1962, the MGB Roadster enjoyed an eighteen-year production run. With nicely balanced handling and a good turn of speed, it merited the old MG marketing slogan 'Safety Fast'. Based around a monocoque chassis featuring independent coil-sprung front suspension and a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle, its 1798cc 'B' series four-cylinder engine was allied to four-speed manual transmission. Capable of over 100mph (especially if specified with overdrive), the provision of disc/drum brakes and rack and pinion steering greatly aided control. However, the biggest visual change in the car’s history occurred when steel reinforced rubber bumpers replaced the chrome ones and the ride height was raised by one inch. By the time Roadster production ceased in October 1980, a total of 399,070 are said to have been produced. The accompanying history file for this appealing, chrome bumpered Roadster dates back to 5th June 1980 when its longest-term owner – E.F. Williams Esq – bought it from well-known MG B exponent Barry Sidery-Smith of Westbury Garage for £2,150. Retaining the two-seater across four decades, Mr Williams commissioned renowned marque specialist Brown & Gammons to restore the bodywork in 1986 before agreeing a series of upgrades with David Eales of Oselli some seventeen years later. As well as being fitted with an Oselli ‘Stage 2’ lead-free 1995cc engine, the Roadster had its gearbox and back axle overhauled. The brakes and suspension were uprated to cope with the extra power and torque (later measured at 119bhp/142lbft) and the fresh coat of Woodland Green paint offset by Black leather sports recliner seats. In all the work cost some £13,308.28. Thereafter the MG was treated to a new mohair hood in 2007 and a replacement starter motor, alternator and gearbox (with associated transmission tunnel modifications) in 2016. Still highly presentable, ‘LBW 888E’ sports a Nardi wood-rimmed steering wheel, alloy bonnet, silver-painted wire wheels and negative earth electrics. Starting readily upon inspection, ‘LBW 888E’ is a tribute to Mr Williams’ caring ownership and Oselli’s workmanship. For more information, please contact: Damian Jones damian.jones@handh.co.uk 07855 493737