Millennium MG

This beautifully prepared 1974 V8 MGB Roadster features a unique specification. Owner Richard Crisford has created a sportscar that could easily be described as the ultimate MGB. This car has gone through a whole range of special modifications and now has many considerably improved components, in terms of its engine, drive train, suspension and interior trim. All of which is so well assembled that the car passes for a thoroughly developed production vehicle.

V8 Roadsters
Apart from the RV8, MG never built a V8 MGB Roadster. Production of V8s at Abingdon was restricted to the MGB GT V8. There are various explanations given for this, it was claimed that the GT shell provided greater structural rigidity but I suspect that the main reason was to avoid having too many models in production, combined with the difficulty at the time, of getting enough V8 engines from Rover. There is no doubt that a production V8 Roadster would have been popular with MG buyers but sales of the MGB GT V8 had already undoubtedly suffered because of the petrol crisis which made all large engined cars unpopular.

Behind the wheel

Driving this V8 Roadster gives the impression of sitting at the wheel of a thoroughly developed production car, it seems to combine the original charm of the GT V8 with the extra power of the RV8. Power delivery is incredibly smooth and progressive from the 4.2 litre Rover engine which develops 220 BHP. Ignition is by a mapped ECU (Engine Control Unit) which in turn is linked to a map sensor, this combination provides exactly the right ignition setting for the engine throughout the rev range. The result is an extremely smooth engine with massive torque at low revs. Fuel is supplied by twin SU carbs which are fed by an electric performance fuel pump with an in-line fuel regulator to control delivery. The complete package gives both excellent acceleration and a very smooth tickover.

Engine fitted with twin SU carburettors to retain an original MG V8 engine bay appearance.

Roadholding

Modifications to the suspension include the full RV8 crossmember conversion with double wishbones, coil-over shockers plus modern ball joints instead of king pins, also with four pot calliper ventilated disc brakes. Telescopic shockers are fitted to the rear axle to compliment the improved front end. All this gives a very firm but comfortable and predictable ride very much in the MG tradition. Steering is positive and lighter than a standard MGB which is remarkable as the car is shod with low profile Yokahama 185/65 VR15 tyres on centre lock alloy wheels. This car is very sure-footed and has handling which is confidence inspiring. The current modification now being fitted is a quaife limited slip differential installed in a centralised rear axle. The axle and suspension settings have been made by infra-red plotting. By using a specially modified rear axle there is now the possibility of fitting oversize 6″ rear wheels which can be fitted with 195 or even 205.60 X15 VR rated tyres for improved grip. Infra-red plotting further enables the setting of the camber together with measured toe-in to complete the body and wheel alignment.

RV8 crossmember provides sharp handling and roadholding characteristics.   Classic lines conceal technological innovation.

Interior

To match the engine and suspension package the specification of the interior features classic sports recliner seats in a soft magnolia leather. These seats are both extremely supportive and comfortable and are matched by a set of classic trim panels. There is a one piece leather centre-console, the dash is finished in walnut, as is the console switch panel and door cappings. The floor and rear shelf of the cockpit is covered with a quality carpet set and soundproofing. Interior fittings, door handles and window winders are all finished off in chrome and stainless steel. The RV8 style cabrio hood is lined and fully padded which greatly reduces the interior noise levels.

Full interior specification features magnolia leather seats with matching trim.

Overall

This car retains the classically understated lines of the MGB Roadster but brings a new dimension to the marque. The long bonnet conceals a V8 engine that has been brought right up to date in terms of its technological development yet retains its original appearance. The performance available from the V8 engine in combination with the well balanced road holding provides a driving experience that is both exhilarating and reassuring because of this MGs accuracy and predictability. All this development has undoubtedly created an MG for the Millennium.

Richard Ladds