1977 MG MGB Roadster - MX-5 1.8 Engine Conversion

Highlights

• Extensively rebuilt and modified with a de-seamed and de-chromed 'Americana' styling
• Mazda 1,798cc fuel-injected engine with five-speed manual gearbox
• Targa top conversion with two removable panels
• Dry stored for many years during and after its transformation
• MOT valid until 26th October 2027

The Appeal

The MGB Roadster remains one of the most beloved and accessible British sports cars ever made, and thanks to its whopping great support network, mechanical simplicity and easy-going nature, it's become one of the best bases out there for modification, upgrade and re-engine. The Mazda and the MGB have met plenty of times in enthusiast circles, and this 1977 car gleefully swaps in a 1.8-litre Mazda MX-5 engine, with a full restyle. The result is a truly unique, one-of-a-kind classic.

The bodywork has been de-seamed and de-chromed to create a clean, contemporary 'Americana' aesthetic, complemented by flush push-button door handles, LED lighting throughout, and a race-style concealed fuel filler. A Targa top conversion adds structural rigidity and reduces scuttle shake, while the two removable panels offer open-air motoring when the mood strikes.
Proudly noted as a ready-to-run, well-kept and well-presented classic, we expect this car will turn plenty of heads at auction and on the modern network.

Key Information

• Mileage: 80,110 miles (indicated)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT exempt however a recent MOT has been completed. MOT valid until 26th October 2027
• Technical specs: 1,798cc Mazda inline four-cylinder with fuel injection, five-speed manual gearbox
• Paperwork: Large binder of paperwork, handbooks and V5c

The Detail

• Targa top with two removable panels; can also be fully removed for open-top driving
• Door handles replaced with flush push buttons
• Central locking fitted with two electronic fobs
• Race-style fuel filler concealed in the boot
• Bonnet and boot fitted with gas struts
• LED bulbs throughout; front indicators are of the travelling type
• MGB L/E style alloy wheels with new tyres and 5mm spacers on the rear
• The vendor states the underside is in very good order and fully rust-protected
• MX5 reclining seats fitted in place of the originals
• Instrument binnacle from an MX5 (Original MGB fuel gauge and clock located on the centre console)
• Inertia reel seatbelts and new carpets fitted
• Dual electrical systems: MGB key operates ancillaries; a race-style guarded switch activates the Mazda engine and fuel injection
• Battery isolation switch located in the cabin
• The vendor states the engine fires up immediately and idles without fault
• The vendor reports the five-speed gearbox changes smoothly
• Small mark noted on the rear splitter - the seller aims to repair before sale
• Purchased by the current owner in February 2026

BEFORE YOU BUY

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