Three men, Syd Enever, John Thornley and Roy Brocklehurst, were involved in the idea, design and development of what was to become the most mass-produced sports car in automotive history.
The MGB was the heir to a glorious line of MGs, from the famous Midget of the 1930s, through the TA, TC and TF, to the legendary MGA, which bowed out in 1962 when it was succeeded by the MGB.
Equipped with a long-stroke engine – the torque was increased compared to the MGA – the MGB offered a good 170 km/h of top speed with enhanced acceleration comfort. The MGB became synonymous with a beast of a ride, on European routes, all without a hitch.
The MGB exuded a charm that made us forget how little it had evolved from the A. First of all, its elegant lines reassured women, who loved it because it was easy to drive compared to the other British roadsters of the time, which were a little too macho. Its dashboard, studded with round dials, also appealed to men, attracted by the short gearshift lever planted on the console.
The MGB was a successful synthesis of all the sports cars of the time.
Turn the ignition key planted in the heart of the dashboard, illuminate the “ignition” light, awaken the fine white hands of the black Smiths dials, with the whistle of the pump piercing the silence before tearing it apart with the galloping roar of the 4-cylinder. Simply bliss.
“With the top down – and not in too much of a hurry – you’ll be cruising down the Champs-Elysées – and your mates will see you go by – and they’ll say, amazed – there’s no denying it, this car – wow, it’s great!
