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 apart from a few items, the majority of parts are replaceable.
Garage fit? L 12ft 9" (3.89m) x W 5ft 0" (1.52m)
x H 4ft 1" (1.27m).
Prices
Roadsters: £2,500 to £9,000
GTs: £2,000 to £7,000
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 |
