Need To Know

I'm thinking of trading my 97 F-250 custom for a 79 MGB.
Because of gas prices, I'm all for it!!! But, I'd like to know some facts about these cars ( This particular one has 75K. miles.)
Is the motor in the front or rear?
Is it front or rear wheel drive?
What is the average MPG?
How many horses does the motor put out? ( stock )
How many miles can I go without starting to worry about something happening?
If someone can answer these questions for me, it would be much appreciated.
Thanks
Alvin Holdiman

Alvin, Don't buy an MGB for the gas mileage. Sure they will get better mileage than your F-250, but owning an MGB involves much more than mpg. To answer your questions.
1. The engine is in the front
2. Rear wheel drive
3. MPG will vary from around 20 to 30 mpg, some will be a little more or less depending on driving conditions.
4. The HP of the 79 MGB was so low due to the emission package the figures weren't advertised. It was probably in 60-65 range.
5. To be honest, it could be before you get it home or it could be several months or longer, it depends on the condition of the vehicle and how it has been maintained.

You are asking questions about a car that is 27 years old, the last MGB was produced in 1980. There are no dealers and depending on your location it may be difficult to find someone to repair and service it. If it still has the OE carburetor, getting to run right can be frustrating. The electrical system can be troublesome.

Owning an MGB requires a commitment to a maintenance program that isn't required of newer vehicles. There are parts available but most parts cannot be purchased at Auto-zone, they have to be ordered from one of the several MG parts specialists. If you can do your own maintenance and to work through the possible problems they can be fun to own. If you are that type person you can be satisfied with an MGB.

Based on your questions, I have a feeling you may not be happy with an MGB and you may be better off finding a newer low mileage Honda, Nissan, Toyota or one of the numerous other late model small vehicles. If I'm wrong and you want to buy the MGB, welcome, lots of help is available here and at other forums and lists. In general MG owners are friendly and helpful.

Hope this answers your questions, and whatever you decide, good luck.

Clifton

Alvin,

I can't add much to what Clifton has already said. While there are people who use MGB's as their daily transportation, it isn't for gas mileage - its for the joy of driving the car AND working on the car. If you have a 30 year old car, you're going to have to work on it, or have PLENTY of money to pay someone else to work on it.

If you still think you're interested, you might want find a local MGB club member to take a look at it. Reliability is really dependant on maintenance. Also, MG's, like any other old car, are prone to rust - and since their structural integrity is based on parts that rust, you need to be sure that the car is relatively rust free, or you're going to spend a lot more money taking care of the rust. Someone familiar with them can tell quickly if rust is an issue.

I don't want to discourage you from buying an MGB - I have one, and I love it - but I have an F150 that I drive every day.

Let us know what you decide.

John