1977 MG MGB Roadster (MX-5 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

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
• 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

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.