Guide for purchasing at MGC (Marketplace Gallery Corp.)
In the realm of classic sports cars, the MGC has had a unique journey. Initially met with commercial failure, this vehicle has since earned renewed respect for its improved handling and performance.
Many MGC examples have been upgraded with an electric fan to aid cooling, a testament to the dedication of its owners in unlocking its latent potential. The MGC features a stronger Salisbury rear axle and a more robust manual gearbox than its MGB counterpart, providing a solid foundation for its grand touring abilities.
The MGC presents an appealing alternative to the four-cylinder MGB, with top-condition Roadsters now exceeding £30,000. Top-quality examples of the MGC command £25,000-£32,000, with exceptional Roadsters and GTs from noted restorers sometimes exceeding £35,000.
When buying an MGC, several key factors should be considered. The braking system, for instance, features a larger Girling brake system with front discs and rear drums. Check for worn discs, leaking calipers or wheel cylinders, corroded fixed lines, and perished flexible hoses.
The interior and trim condition are also crucial. A tired interior should not deter you as hard and soft trim parts are still readily available. For GT versions, inspect the headlining and any fabric sunroof for water tightness and rips, as repairs can be costly and specialist expertise is required.
Functionality of switchgear and instruments should also be verified. Ensure all switches and instruments are working, and for cars with overdrive, verify that it engages smoothly in third and fourth gears, as this is a desirable feature for smoother driving.
Structural soundness is another crucial aspect to consider. Focus on the soundness of the body and chassis rather than cosmetic wear since restoration of trim and interior items is manageable, and parts availability is good.
Because MGCs were originally criticized but handle nicely when well-maintained, prioritize mechanical condition and original equipment integrity over cosmetic perfection. Brake balance and system condition are critical given the car’s older design and braking technology.
Restoration projects for an MGC start around £6000-£9000, while usable, MoT'd cars in tidy but not perfect order usually sit between £12,000-£18,000. A retrofitted overdrive with a 3.3:1 diff makes for a long-legged cruiser in the MGC.
The MGC's brakes use a larger Girling system compared to the MGB's Lockheed set-up. Regular flushing helps maintain good coolant circulation in the MGC. However, the manual gearbox is criticized for its notchy, awkward change.
Despite initial criticism, the MGC has been praised by enthusiasts as an outstanding long-distance, continent-crossing machine. It debuted at the 1967 Earls Court Motor Show with high expectations but faced criticism during early road tests.
Criticism of the MGC included heavy steering and underwhelming performance from its twin-SU-fed 2912cc straight-six engine. The MGC was marketed as a spiritual successor to the Austin-Healey 3000, but shared near-identical profiles and interior layouts with its four-cylinder MGB stablemates.
Attention should be paid to the sills, which are made up of four separate components and provide a perfect hiding place for serious corrosion. Other rust traps on the MGC include the front wings around the headlamps, the lower front and rear valances, the beaded seams along the tops of the rear wings, and the joints where the front wings meet the windscreen scuttle. GT models can also suffer from rotted windscreen surrounds and tailgates, particularly along the base and around the rubber glazing seal.
In conclusion, the MGC offers a comfortable ride and superb grand touring cruising ability. By focusing on brakes, structural integrity, interior state, and mechanical operability, you can ensure you get the best driving experience from this classic sports car.
- The automotive industry has seen a rise in road tests for classic sports cars like the MGC, with many enthusiasts upgrading these vehicles for better performance and longevity, such as installing electric fans for improved cooling.
- In the realm of lifestyle and finance, top-quality examples of the MGC can command prices ranging from £25,000 to £35,000, making it an attractive investment in the transportation sector.
- During car-maintenance checks, buyers should prioritize the condition of the braking system, interior, switchgear, and instruments, as well as the structural soundness of the body and chassis for optimal performance and longevity.
- The MGC, despite facing initial criticism, has been praised by sports car enthusiasts as an excellent long-distance cruiser, with its revised handling and performance providing a unique journey in the world of classic sports cars.
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