MGB Stage 2
MGB Evolution World's Best Bs- 50th Birthday test
John Simister, Practical Classics September 2012:
Fundamentally, the MGOC testbed feels like an MGB which has been properly developed beyond what the factory could afford to do at the time. The bad parts have been banished, leaving the good parts to shine more brightly. The engine pulls smoothly and with useful vigour, and the suspension works fluently without the lever-arm dampers choppiness. Small movements are accommodated rather than resisted, large ones are more tightly controlled. And the steering? The power assistance is well-enough judged for you not to be aware of it, except at low speeds with an ease unexpected in an MGB. It's accurate and you can still feel proper forces through the steering wheel when you need them. Good telescopic dampers, a well developed power-steering system and some useful extra urge; give your MGB these vital enhancements and you'll love it forever. So which is the honey B? 'a simple early B-series roadster with the right modifications would do me just fine. And the MGOCs testbed is exactly that car.’
Acquired in 1979, this 1964 pull handle MGB has been used extensively over the last forty years to test and develop products which offer genuine benefit to MGB owners. A major restoration was undertaken in 1994, comprising replacement of all external body panels and replacement floor panels, boot and sills with a comprehensive re-spray and new interior trim. In its current guise the performance B series engine has covered over ninety thousand miles, many under test conditions.
The car today sports the following non-standard upgrades:
Mechanical -
2.1 Ltr Stage II Balanced Unleaded Engine producing in excess of 100BHP at the wheels
MGB Evolution 3 Front Suspension
Club MGB Rear Panhard Rod
Power Steering
Roller Clutch Release Bearing
Five Speed Gear Box Conversion with Type 9 Sierra Gearbox
123 Distributor with selected 2.1 Stag II Ignition Map
Lumenition Ignition Leads
1 3/4" HS6 Carburettors
Stub Stacks
K&N Pancake Air Filters
Geared Starter Motor
High Output Alternator
Sports Coil
Stainless Steel Three Branch Manifold
Stainless Steel Standard Exhaust System
Slotted & Drilled Discs with Green Stuff Pads
New MGB Calipers with Stainless Steel Pistons
Optional Remote Brake Servo
Reconditioned Brake Calipers with Stainless Steel Pistons
Standard rear interleaving springs (currently on test from manufacturer)
Koni Rear Dampers
Poly Urethane Bushing front & rear
5.5 x 15" Centre Lock Anthracite Wheels
185/65/15 Yokohama Tyres
Exterior -
Tripod Headlights
Stainless Steel Oversills
Stainless Steel Luggage Rack
Interior -
Moulded Carpet Set
Leather Trimmed Centre Console
Club Sports Recliners
14" Motolita Leather Steering Wheel
Mohair Hood
Wind Stop
Uprated Two Speed Heater Motor
Uprated Heater Matrix