"The MGB was first introduced in May 1962 as a direct replacement for the MGA. Performance was brisk with power supplied by a 1798cc four-cylinder iron block engine set within a monocoque lightweight body shell with crumple zones incorporated. October 1965 saw the introduction of the GT and was based on the already popular roadster. Designed by Pinninfarina, the new GT sported a hatchback giving useful access to the rear luggage space and a rear bench seat that enabled the car to be called a 2+2. Although acceleration was slightly slower than the roadster, top speed was better by 5mph due to the increased aerodynamic efficiency. Ken Costello saw the possibility of fitting the larger aluminium 3528cc Rover P5B engine into the MGB GT having been sure that the handling and braking could be made to match the much improved performance; not that it needed significant changes as the V8 weighed in at around 40 pounds lighter than the four cylinder iron blocked engine it replaced. Space was not a problem as the car had originally been designed for fitment of a V4 that was never produced. It was not until two years after the first Costello car that MG decided to follow suit.
This relatively low mileage MG BGT V8 is presented in its original colour of Flamenco Red with a contrasting black cloth interior that is in excellent order with no rips or tears to the trim. We are informed that the engine starts ‘on the button’ and runs very cleanly whilst the manual overdrive gearbox operates as it should. This MG has been regularly serviced with the last, being a full service, in April of this year. The accompanying history file dates back to 1975 and includes the original bill of sale and old MoT test certificates that confirm the mileage. The MG has been converted to chrome bumpers sometime during its life and fitted with an MGC bonnet. Today, the car sits very handsomely on the original factory Dunlop alloy wheels. This V8 was inherited during 2018 and is only available due to lack of use. We feel that, with this genuine factory V8 being offered with a very attractive estimate, you may have to search far and wide to find a better example for the money."