Launched in 1967 in both Roadster and GT versions as
a replacement for the Austin-Healey 3000, the MGC had a mixed reception from the
press despite a a top speed of 120mph and more. With a straight six 2912cc 150bhp
engine providing good low speed torque and relaxed cruising, it was seen as a
useful long-legged touring car. The other main changes from the MGB were a revised
front suspension (using torsion bars instead of coil springs), a "power bulge"
in the bonnet to accommodate a radiator located further forward for the larger
engine, a much stronger rear axle and all synchromesh transmission to deal with
the increase in power, and increased spring rates front and rear and a new stronger
to cope with the extra power and weight. Like the MGB there was an optional Borg
Warner Type 35 automatic transmission.
But press reviewers were critical
of the MGC's nose-heavy handling and lazy acceleration and felt it looked too
much like an MGB. In many ways the MGC should have seen strong sales because the
package provided a significant improvement in performance compared with the MGB
and at a similar price. Unfortunately the MGC production run was brief and ended
in August 1969. As MG had by then become part of the British Leyland Group, where
Triumph cars were favoured by the management team, many suspect the open top Triumph
TR6 was their preferred big engined sportscar.
Today modern tyres and parts
from tuning specialists have improved the handling and the model is much sought
after by MGC enthusiasts. | MGC
facts
Produced: 1967 to 1969
Bodywork:
Two door open sports roadster and GT.
Engine: Six cylinder in line
pushrod OHV "C" series 2912cc engine with twin SU HS6 carburettors producing
145bhp.
0-60 mph: 10 secs
Top speed: 120 mph plus.
Fuel
consumption: 20-27 mpg
Production: Pre-production cars were produced
in 1966 with production launched in October/November 1967. Production ended in
August 1969.
Specification: Front discs brakes at the front and drums
at the back, 15 inch steel disc bolt-on or wire wheels, a four speed gearbox (later
revised in 1968) and an overdrive.
Number produced: A total of 8,999
cars were produced in Roadster (4,542) and GT (4,457) forms, with 47% of production
exported to the North American market.
Spares availability: The MGC
shares much with the MGB so availability is good. The MGC spares situation has
continued to improve over recent years with most recently the tooling for king
pins and fans.
Garage fit? L 12ft 9" (3.89m) x W 5ft 0" (1.52m)
x H 4ft 1" (1.27m).
Prices
Roadsters: £5,000 to £20,000
GTs: £4,000 to £18,000
More MGC
information and support
So you want to buy an MGC?
Definitive buying guide published in the December 2007 issue of Safety Fast! More
MGC road test
From Motor on 4th November 1967. More
Advance Information brochure for the MGC Sports & GT
Brochure
issued in 1967 with the message "much more than meets the eye!!!" More
Technical Notes for an MGC
Useful technical notes for the MGC
enthusiast. More |
