Every true classic enthusiast knows the MG MGB, perhaps one of the standard bearers within the world of the classic experience. The car was delivered as a roadster and as a coupé. During its career it was available in different versions and with various engine variants. A special variant was the MG MGC, which was built from 1967 to 1969. Thanks to colleague Jouke Bloem we were allowed to go with his beautiful MGC GT on the road.
Outwardly, the MGC, recognizable by the bulge on the hood, among other things, resembles the MG MGB. Under the skin, however, the MGC has a different cut. Abingdon spooned a six-cylinder in-line engine with 2912 cc into the modified front of the British sports car. Two SU carburettors ensure the correct fuel/air ratio. The C-series engine, which was also used in the Austin 3-Litre, produces 145 horsepower in the MGC. The block is much heavier in nature than the 1.8 liter engine of the MGB. It resulted in the necessary adjustments, such as a modified wheel suspension with telescopic shock absorbers and a stabilizer. The necessary changes were made to give the MG MGC a road holding that matched the changed weight distribution.
Stretched posture
We are about to get to know the specificity of the MG MGC GT. Jouke and his partner Jolanda just made a trip to Great Britain with this in Pale Primrose painted GT, to visit, among other things, the celebration of the 50th anniversary of MGC. I too am eager to go out with this MG and install myself in the MGC GT. The pedal section invites you to stretch your legs. In combination with the low seat, the position behind the wheel is sporty and stretched. The typical English sports car interior with those beautiful meters and beautiful materials is comfortable.
MG MGC GT: Weight in the scale
Once on the road I notice that the MG MGC GT has a completely different driving characteristic than the more light-footed MGB models. The silky-smooth 2912 cc cast iron power unit adds weight. And that fact especially invites you to make long journeys, and not to a frenzied adventures where bends are nicely sharply cut. Good-natured is the right word. The transmission can be operated with a firm shift lever with a long spacing. Certainly the first kilometers this requires getting used to, as also applies to the overdrive function in the higher gears.
Heat
But especially the overdrive is a very nice addition, which brings absolute peace on board on the longer journeys. Furthermore, the gear lever gets hot over time, and this has to do with the fact that the engine generates a lot of heat, which is transferred through the transmission, among other things. returned is given to the occupants. “During long trips it is in any case advisable to put the car aside after a few hours. The 3-litre engine simply finds it difficult to dissipate its heat in this car, and we really notice that over time," says Jouke Bloem.
In the dots
It has to be said: the car feels solid, and everything shows that Jouke Bloem really takes care of the MG MGC GT down to the last detail. “Heat control, consumption, road holding: in this car, so to speak, the smallest screw can make all the difference. It all listens closely. But I think it's great to make the car one percent better every time."
Right British cut
The carpenter's eye of Jouke Bloem has a nice effect on the Prime Rose Yellow MG. That is also why this MG MGC GT is one Gran Turismo of the right British cut, which certainly showcases its qualities most optimally on the new asphalt of De Centrale As. Its excellent chassis and steering characteristics also come in handy when I suddenly have to swerve for an integrating van. Nothing wrong. Within the built-up area you experience, with the execution of various actions, the robust service and the required work ethic. The non-energized control thereby makes a contribution in the bag.
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Efforts more than rewarded
Finally, I would like to say something about the prejudices regarding this car and the mixed feelings with which this car was received. The . is still MG MGC associated with obesity. When the MGB series serves as a frame of reference, the conclusion that the six-cylinder brother carries more weight is justified. I would like to add that the car should be valued above all on its own value. Because it is above all that delightful zespitter that makes the 9.002 produced MG MGC a unique proposition with retroactive effect. Yes. It's true. On laborious routes, the understeered Brit demands a work ethic from the driver. But on longer routes, it brings unfiltered pleasure in a relaxed way. Or as Jouke Bloem says: “It is a car that amply rewards the efforts of the driver.”
Also read:
- MG MGA. A New Era in Abingdon (1955-1962)
- MG ZT 190. Autonomous sports saloon. A classic in the making
- A MG Sebring. An almost real copy
- MG MGB Roadster (1964) and Triumph Spitfire IV (1977)
- Electric MG Midget, the e-Midge
Beautiful car with that bulge in the front cover.
It immediately radiates its obesity, but also the tranquility of the heavy engine.
I've had a B for a long time. Has been standing still for a long time. We have driven it as far as North Africa, but also in rush hour the snake from London winds through the countryside within the countryside, over countless mini roundabouts, sometimes 2 in a row and then the 'B' is indeed completely happy.
Reliable car. It's just what you want. The 'C' for the big straighter rides and the 'B' for the mountains and winding routes. Great cars.
By the way, it looks like Jack's car….. or someone who maintained it there, who had a garage in Voorburg in the late 90s.
What a beauty the MG B and C series is.