Classifind Cut: 1973 MG MGB Mk III 5-Speed – SOLD!

January 29, 2021 Update – we just confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Overdrive top gears are highly desirable in any car when highway duty calls.  The ratio’s ability to convert one engine revolution to more wheel rotation makes it perfect for quieter highway cruising with higher fuel economy.  With most modern manually-shifted six-speed cars often featuring multiple overdrive gears, it’s easy to take for granted how rare an economical top ratio used to be in British sports cars.  When four-speed manuals were still the norm, British-Leyland engineers developed an optional electric unit mounted to the transmission’s tail shaft controlled by a button on the gearshift.  While the system worked well, finding and converting a car not equipped is not as straightforward as one might think.

As an alternative, a cottage industry developed utilizing modern Mazda Miata five-speed manual converted to fit into classic British sports cars.  One example benefitting from this conversion is this 1973 MGB we came across in December 2020 on Craigslist in Chester, New York where the current caretaker is asking $12,000 for their highly detailed MG.  A check of the Collector Car Market Review Online Tool indicates the private seller has their chrome bumper MGB priced between this guide’s #2 “Very Good” appraisal of $11,500 and its #1 “Excellent” estimate of $19,000. Similarly, the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool used as a second data point confirms this private seller has their ‘B priced between the #3 “Good” estimate of $8,700 and the #2 “Excellent” appraisal of $16,400. 

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1973 MGB,, Asking 12K Loaded with Performance Parts, Moss Motors 5 Speed transmission, Lots of new Parts added recently,, No Rust,, Excellent Condition, always Garage kept, MG is running Great, Car Located in Chester, NY asking 12K Title in Hand, Asking 12K”” sale is final, Car located in Chester, NY, Text only more info.​”

Show or go: what would you do with this 5-Speed MGB?  Comment below and let us know!