1964 MGB Mark I Roadster - Factory Overdrive - Wire Wheels - Early Pull-Handle - Project/Driver
Factory overdrive, wire wheels, and the early pull-handle body that purists want, presented honestly in project condition.
Overview
The early pull-handle MGB is the one the serious collectors seek out. Built from 1962 through to late 1964, these Mark I cars represent the Abingdon team's original vision before regulations, cost-cutting, and market pressure began to alter the recipe. This 1964 example carries the engine prefix 18GR-U-H, which identifies it as a higher-compression export specification unit with factory overdrive. The chassis number GHN3/17238 and engine number 18GRUH16743 are both confirmed and readable on the car. The "Overdrive" badge on the boot lid and matching engine stamp tell the same story.
The car is finished in what is believed to be original Tartan Red, and the paint is honest about its age. There is fading and oxidation across all panels, with some areas showing primer or filler beneath the topcoat where previous bodywork has been carried out. The lower rear wheel arches display the early surface corrosion that is a well-known MGB weak point and will need attention. The chrome bumpers, grille surround, and sill strip are all structurally present and intact, though dulled with time. The body panels themselves are fundamentally straight and complete, which is the most important starting point for a restoration.
Wire wheels with knock-off spinners are fitted at all four corners. The spoke condition is consistent with age, and the Skyway Radial tyres are aged and should be replaced as a priority. The original British Jaeger instruments are in place, with the speedometer showing 02,580 miles on its five-digit dial. A note on the mileage: the trip meter reads 3,057 miles, which is higher than the total on the main odometer, indicating the main instrument mechanism was likely replaced at some point. The actual mileage is unknown.
Inside, the original early-style door cards, octagonal dashboard speaker, toggle switches, and Jaeger oil and water temperature gauges are all in place. An aftermarket Moto-Lita three-spoke steering wheel with MG badge, an aftermarket GMX AM/FM/CD radio, and an aftermarket roll bar have been fitted. The black vinyl seats are in reasonable condition with no significant tears. A convertible soft top, spare wire wheel, and jack are present in the boot, and a period MG-badged leather key fob with two keys accompanies the car.
Features
* Factory overdrive, engine prefix 18GR-U-H confirming high-compression export specification with Laycock de Normanville overdrive
* Wire wheels with knock-off spinners on all four corners
* Early Mark I pull-handle door style, 1962-1964 configuration
* British Jaeger instruments (original) including MPH speedometer and RPM tachometer
* Overdrive badge on boot lid
* "Overdrive" script badge present on boot lid
* Aftermarket Moto-Lita 3-spoke steering wheel with MG hub badge
* Aftermarket roll bar fitted behind seats
* Aftermarket AM/FM/CD radio fitted in dash
* Convertible soft top included (stored in boot)
* Spare wire wheel and jack in boot
* Period MG-badged leather key fob with two keys
* Right-hand drive
Condition Notes
* Paint faded and oxidised across all panels, with filler visible beneath topcoat in several areas
* Lower rear wheel arches showing early surface corrosion at known MGB weak points
* Sill paint lifting at chrome strip junction, consistent with previous respray
* Chrome trim dulled but structurally intact throughout
* Tyres are aged Skyway Radials (P185/75R14), replacement recommended
* Tail light units appear to be later-style replacements rather than original 1964 round units
* Speedometer reads 02,580 miles on a 5-digit dial; trip meter reads 3,057 miles, indicating the main odometer was likely replaced at some point. Actual mileage unknown.
Specifications
Year: 1964
Make/Model: MG MGB Mark I Roadster
Body: 2-Door Open Roadster
Engine: 1798cc B-Series 4-Cylinder, export high-compression specification (18GR-U-H)
Transmission: 4-Speed Manual with Laycock de Normanville Overdrive
Drive: Rear-Wheel Drive
Odometer: Indicating 02,580 Miles (5-digit; actual mileage unknown)
Colour: Red (believed original Tartan Red)
Seats: 2
Steering: Right Hand Drive
Engine Number: 18GRUH16743
VIN/Chassis: GHN3/17238
If you have any questions relating to this vehicle, or if you would like to arrange a physical or virtual inspection, please contact Vorak directly on 0419 371 926
(Key #C9)
Lloyds stock #993685+1
#CCALL
#CCEUR
Location of item: 4-10 Keon Parade, Thomastown, VIC, Australia
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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