1964 MG MG B Roadster

The MG B is a sports car launched by MG Cars in May 1962 to replace the MG A. The roadster was the first of the MG B range to be produced. The body was a pure two-seater but a small rear seat was a rare option at one point. By making better use of space the MG B was able to offer more passenger and luggage accommodation than the earlier MG A while being 3 inches (75 mm) shorter overall. In structure the MG B was an innovative, modern, design in 1962, utilizing a monocoque structure instead of the traditional body-on-frame construction used on both the MG A and MG T-types. However components such as brakes and suspension were developments of the earlier 1955 MG A with the B- The lightweight design reduced manufacturing costs while adding to overall vehicle strength. The suspension was also softer, giving a smoother ride, and the larger engine gave a slightly higher top speed. The four-speed gearbox was an uprated version of the one used in the MG A with an optional (electrically activated) overdrive transmission. Wind-up windows were standard, and a comfortable driver's compartment offered plenty of legroom. A parcel shelf was fitted behind the seats. The MG B’s s performance was considered brisk at the time of its introduction, with a 0–60 mph (96 km/h) time of just over 11 seconds, aided by the relatively light weight of the car. Handling was one of the MG B’s strong points. The 3-bearing 1798 cc B-Series engine produced 95 hp (71 kW) at 5,400 rpm. The engine was upgraded in October 1964 to a five-bearing crankshaft in an effort to improve reliability. The majority of MG B’s were exported to United States. The MG B was one of the first cars to feature controlled crumple zones designed to protect the driver and passenger in a 30 mph (48 km/h) impact with an immovable barrier