Manufacturer: Carrosso Classic & Sportscars Eekstraat 2 8375HN OLDEMARKT, NL 0625351515 http://www.carrosso.com sales@carrosso.com

MG C Roadster Overdrive 1968

- Body-off restoration
- Rally prepared
- Easy to drive in two modes (rally or standard)
- Polyester hardtop
- Luxurious fabric soft top
- Many technical updates
- Extensive documentation
- 2.9-litre 6-cylinder engine
- Rare: only 4,542 MG C Roadsters were built
- Owned by the same owner for almost 20 years

HISTORY/DOCUMENTATION
This MG C Roadster began its life on 18 July 1968 in the United States. In 2002, it was imported to the Netherlands, where it underwent a complete “body-off” restoration. A photo report of this is available. In 2006, the MG came into the possession of its current owner, who spared no expense in preparing the car for rallying. The car has been improved both technically and visually, but it is also relatively easy to restore to its original condition. The car comes with a beautiful fabric-covered folder containing extensive documentation, including valuation reports, maintenance invoices, parts catalogues and a trim catalogue. The last owner used the car for both rallying and holidays: by fitting the soft top and boot lid with luggage rack, the car is easily transformed from a sporty rally car into a delightful, practical touring car.

EXTERIOR
A sporty appearance: a subtle yellow colour (Primrose Yellow) of the paintwork, the well-known “Mini-Lite” alloy wheels with central wheel nut, a “Sebring” front spoiler and, of course, the absence of chrome bumpers and the addition of stickers, which make it a real rally car. Of course, the original parts are included with the car, such as the chrome bumpers, front lip and seats. Both the striking black and white chequered polyester hardtop and the black fabric soft top are in good condition. The body parts fit together correctly. The windows, rubbers and chrome work are also in good condition. There are only slight signs of wear. The front features four Cibie fog lights/spotlights and the sides feature Union Jack emblems. Additional fog lights and mud flaps are mounted at the rear. The headlights have protective covers. The car also comes with several seat belts (3-point and 4-point), a cover for the soft top, an extra boot lid with luggage rack and a roll bar.

INTERIOR
The black interior is currently fitted with rally seats. The original leatherette seats are included with the car. The upholstery is in good condition. A sporty leather-covered Moto-Lita steering wheel and aluminium gear stick are fitted. In addition, extra gauges have been fitted for, for example, battery voltage and trip meters. Other upgrades include a dashboard-operated horn, USB ports, 12-volt connections, a mass switch and a digital compass. The boot contains tools, a spare wheel and a fire extinguisher.

TECHNICAL
A pleasure to drive: the original 2.9-litre 6-cylinder in-line engine produces a beautiful sound and is controlled by the manual gearbox, which was overhauled about 4 years ago. The overdrive provides a pleasant “5th gear”. The engine does not consume oil, is well tuned and does not suffer from heat. Many technical upgrades have been carried out, including: Koni shock absorbers, special brakes, two electric fuel pumps, Weber carburettors, a stainless steel exhaust, a spaghetti manifold, a special intake manifold, electric ignition and a new type of alternator. The 15-inch rims have good Goodyear all-season tyres. The car drives very well, so whether it is used for rallies, touring or holidays, this MG is ideally suited.

GENERAL
Power, Class and Character in one Iconic Roadster: The MG C was the first high-performance version of the legendary MGB – a car that was designed from the outset to combine sportiness and power. The MG B V8 followed later, in 1973. While the MGB was known for its agility, the MGC added pure muscle power and refined technology. At first glance, the MGC closely resembles its famous sibling, the MGB. However, the characteristic domed bonnet with chrome cross strip reveals that something special lies beneath. The larger 15" wheels also give it a more rugged and powerful appearance. Inside, subtle differences can be found in details such as the 140 mph speedometer and rev counter with a modified scale – a subtle hint at the extra power under the bonnet. And that is where the heart of this sporty Brit lies: an impressive 2.9-litre BMC C-series 6-cylinder engine, derived from that in the Austin Healey 3000. This power source provided a smooth, robust driving experience and required a completely redesigned torsion front suspension and improved braking system. The reinforced gearbox with full synchromesh and optional overdrive ensured effortless gear changes – technology that later found its way into the MGB.
Although early test drives unfairly damaged the MGC's reputation due to incorrect tyre pressure, the model was quickly refined and improved. Nevertheless, production remained limited: just over 9,000 units left the factory before production ceased in 1969 – making the MGC a rare and sought-after collector's item today. The MGC combines the timeless design of the MGB with the power of a six-cylinder engine – a unique blend of classic British elegance and sporty performance that more than deserves its place in automotive history.