Registration - GRN 382F

Chassis No. - GCN1/1306C

M.O.T. - Exempt

Odometer - 37,430

Now here’s a sight to warm the hearts of MGC lovers everywhere – a truly splendid-looking home market roadster that’s believed to have covered just 37,430 miles to date. ‘GRN 382F’ was first registered by Preston County Council on May 1, 1968 and despatched to its first owner by Loxhams Garages (Preston) Ltd. It is finished in British Racing Green, trimmed in white-piped black leather, and rides on chrome wire wheels shod with 185/70R15 Fulda tyres. The car is unusual in being one of only 20 or so examples remaining from the 92 MGCs that were equipped from new with Borg Warner automatic transmission. It apparently benefited from a ground up restoration between 1986 and 1994, and has recently been treated to a new alternator, starter motor, spark plugs, carpets and door cards. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the vendor informs us that the MG nowadays ‘drives exceptionally well and the that the engine pulls strongly’. In addition, he regards the body and paintwork as ‘absolutely exquisite’ and feels it would be hard to better the finish without having the car freshly restored. He is now offering this rare roadster complete with Moto-Lita leather-rimmed steering wheel. A rare opportunity – MGCs don’t come much better than this.

Intended as a flagship sports car to replace the Austin-Healey 3000, the MGC was introduced in the autumn of 1967. Based around the two-door monocoque bodyshell of the humble MGB (albeit with a substantially altered engine bay and floorpan), the newcomer was powered by BMC’s 2,912 cc OHV straight-six C Series engine. The model was visually distinguished from the MGB by its 'power bulge' bonnet and taller 15-inch wheels.

In summary:

• One of only 20 or so remaining MGCs equipped with automatic

transmission

• The indicated mileage of 37,430 is thought to be genuine
• The body and paintwork are ‘absolutely exquisite’