1964 MGB, pull-handle, chrome bumper, long term owner, great driver, restored

1964 MG MGB

In long-term ownership, restored pull-handle, chrome bumper example
1964 MGB Convertible
Chassis Number: GHN3L/24379
One of the most engaging sportscars of all time, not based on value or even outright speed was the MGB, making it one of the most successful sports cars of the post-war era; the ever-popular and supremely easy to own MGB enjoyed an 18-year production life and worldwide sales in excess of 500,000 cars. Conceived in the late 1950s as the replacement for the MGA, the 'B' dispensed with its predecessor's separate chassis in favor of unit body construction. The existing B-series engine was stretched to 1,798cc, and the MGB's smooth, aerodynamically efficient lines made the most of the 95bhp available to achieve a top speed that just bested the magic 'ton'.
The car on offer here, a hugely desirable 1964 pull-handle, chrome bumper model, is a wonderfully well-kept example. Owned from the mid 1990s, it was purchased as a fully restored to spectacular spec and quality and lovingly enjoyed, though sparingly, since. An older couple of enthusiasts would show the car at small, regional shows in Northern California with great success.
Having been restored some 20 years ago, the car is holding up well. The paint still has good lustre and shine, with a couple of chips on the very nose of the hood and where the bootlid sits, barely noticeable. The chrome refinishing was obviously done well at that time. The chrome wire wheels and knock-offs look brand new, shod with good tires.
The interior of the car is spectacularly original. The seat surfaces have a beautiful patina and are lovely and soft. The carpets have obviously always been covered in the front as there is no wear to speak of. I took the mats out for photos. The rest of the carpet is good. All the panels are good and the soft top is still in great condition with no fogging to the rear windows.
Mechanically, the car is excellent! It was sitting for a while recently and started right up. It consistently starts easily, idles well and has really good peppy power. The car shifts perfectly through a really good clutch. Brakes are excellent and steering and suspension feel good. All electrical systems work perfectly, and the exhaust note is nice and raspy.
The car comes with a clean, clear California title with current registration on the "MG 64" license plate, a nearly new tonneau cover, shop manuals, and an abundance of spare parts.
This local car show trophy-winner is a lovely, supremely driveable car, easy to own and always draws a wave or two from a crowd.