MGB & MGB GT Buyer’s Guide

MG expert Roger Parker gives his advice on maintaining and modifying MGB, GT and GTV8 cars, with some additional reference to the MGC and MG RV8 models.

With safety information throughout, the book covers: regulations, insurance and market value for all models; routine maintenance; body and interior changes; brakes, suspension and steering; engine improvements for the original 1798cc B-series engine and other engine alternatives and finally, installing and updating electrical equipment and lighting.

Introduced in 1955 as a replacement for the TF Midget the MGA, hailed as the ‘first of a new line’, marked the beginning of MG’s most successful era. It was available in both roadster and coup forms and the MGA Twin-Cam, introduced in 1958, set new standards for affordable ohc-engined sports cars. MGA – The Complete Story relates the full history of this enduringly popular car.

Topics covered include: complete history of all MGA versions; full technical specifications for each model; details of the cars’ racing fortunes and finally, advice on buying and maintaining an MGA.

This is the inside story of the MG Design office, from 1956 until its closure in 1980. Explaining how the various models were drawn, planned, and developed by the small team of engineers, it also shows how the input and control changed from Morris, Wolseley, Riley Group, Austin-Morris, and Austin Rover. The effects of the Triumph-Austin merger are detailed in model changes, alongside the effects of safety legislation, mainly imposed by the United States. Trying to remain as individual as possible during this period, MG developed record breakers and a unique Competition Department. Special cars were built and tested, and prototypes for the MGB replacement were drawn up all in parallel with the development of MG production cars using engines from any part of the company.

Tells the story of each MG V8 model from concept to development and production. Illustrated with 400 pictures including concept cars, design sketches and specially commissioned photography. Interviews with the original V8 design and engineering teams.

Detailed information tables of notable cars and their chassis numbers for each model, plus special editions and colour charts. Background on development and testing work on each model. Rare input and insight from many of the suppliers and specialists who helped develop the cars. Information on sales and servicing literature, production changes, product placement, celebrity stories and much more.