MG MGB, MGC and MGB GT V8: books - history and models

MGB Roadsters - 1962-1980 - Brooklands Portfolio

The MGB debuted at the 1962 Motor Show with a new monocoque design and a B-series engine enlarged to 1798cc. It received immediate positive feedback and quickly proved successful in racing. In 1965, the heavier GT model was introduced and became a good seller despite declining sales.

In the late 1960s, American safety and pollution regulations posed challenges for engineers, leading to various mechanical updates. In 1975, UK cars adopted the American-style black bumpers, and British Leyland's preference for Triumph led to the end of the MGB.

This book includes contemporary road tests, new model introductions, long-term tests, second-hand buying advice, and history.

Information

Details:	100 pages, 27 x 20 x 0.8 cm / 10.6 x 7.9 x 0.31 in, paperback
Illustrations:	profusely illustrated
Publisher:	Brooklands Books (GB, 1987)
Series:	Portfolio
ISBN:	9781869826109

More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books

Original MGB with MGC and MGB GT V8 - The Restorer's Guide to All Roadster and GT Models 1962-80

The MGB, launched in 1962, quickly won the hearts of car enthusiasts with its friendly, charming, and forgiving nature. It became the best-selling British sports car, with its appeal growing after the introduction of the fixed-head GT in 1965, the six-cylinder MGC in 1967, and the MGB GT V8 in 1973. Today, it remains a popular classic.

"Original MGB" is the essential guide to these cars. It details the changes that occurred in the MGB and its larger engine variants over its production run. Through extensive research, Anders Ditlev Clausager has uncovered numerous specification changes, both large and small, that occurred over the MGB's 18 years of production, with the two main versions being the 'chrome-bumper' and 'rubber-bumper' models.

Drawing from factory records, parts lists, and expert knowledge, this book offers the most thorough survey of the MGB ever published. It includes 265 specially commissioned colour photographs that show every MGB specification in detail. Carefully selected cars, many with low mileage and high originality, make the photographs a valuable reference. This book is indispensable for owners, restorers, buyers, and enthusiasts.

Information

Author:	Anders Ditlev Clausager
Details:	152 pages, 30.5 x 23.5 x 2 cm / 12 x 9.25 x 0.79 in, hardback
Illustrations:	265 colour photos
Publisher:	Herridge & Sons Ltd (GB, 2010)
Series:	Original Restorer's Guide
ISBN:	9781906133184

MGB - The superlative MG - Including MGC and MGB V8

The MGB was a remarkable British success, created by a small, dedicated team passionate about their work. It followed the highly successful MGA and had high expectations to meet. Launched in 1962, it remained in production for 18 years and became one of the most iconic sports cars in history.

This book explores how the MGB originated from the vision of MG's Chief Engineer, Syd Enever. It details its design, development, and long-term success, showing how it remains a respected classic today.

While many books have covered the MGB, MGC, and V8 variants, "MGB - The Superlative MG" offers new insights and a deeper level of detail. Author David Knowles, a leading expert on the MGB for over 30 years, uncovers fresh stories and perspectives, revealing aspects that even enthusiasts may not have known.

Information

Author:	David Knowles
Details:	356 pages, 29 x 22.5 x 3.2 cm / 11.4 x 8.9 x 1.26 in, hardback
Illustrations:	numerous b&w and colour photos
Publisher:	The Crowood Press Ltd (GB, 2022)
ISBN:	9781785009419

MGB - The Illustrated History (4th Edition)

The MGB was Britain's most successful sports car, selling over half a million units.
This book, written by dedicated MGB enthusiasts, explores the car's history with insights from key members of the original design team, including John Thornley, Syd Enever, Don Hayter, and Roy Brocklehurst. It provides a behind-the-scenes look at the MG factory in Abingdon, which closed in 1980 after 18 years of MGB production.

The book traces the MGB roadster's development, linking it to its predecessor, the MGA, and MG's experimental EX models. It then covers the launch and production of the GT, MGC, and V8 versions. Additional chapters focus on the MGB's success in racing and the RV8 model.

Richly illustrated with period photographs, brochures, and detailed cutaway drawings of the MGB roadster, MGC, MGB GT V8, and MG RV8, the book offers a comprehensive visual history.
This long-awaited 4th edition features new illustrations of model variants and includes an original road test report.

Information

Author:	Jonathan Wood, Lionel Burrell
Details:	248 pages, 28 x 23 cm / 11 x 9.1 in, hardback
Illustrations:	numerous b&w and colour photos
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2018)
ISBN:	9781787113626

MG V8

This book covers the full history of each MG V8 model, from its concept through development to production. It includes detailed tables with information on notable cars, chassis numbers, special editions, and color charts.

Interviews with the original MG V8 design and engineering teams provide inside details about the development and testing of each model. The book also features rare insights from external suppliers and specialists who contributed to the cars' development.

"MG V8" also explores sales and service literature, production changes, product placements, celebrity stories, and more. With 400 illustrations, the book showcases concept cars, design sketches, and exclusive photography.

Information

Author:	David Knowles
Details:	320 pages, 28.5 x 22 x 2.3 cm / 11.2 x 8.7 x 0.91 in, hardback
Illustrations:	400 colour photos
Publisher:	The Crowood Press Ltd (GB, 2013)
ISBN:	9781847974518

Don Hayter's MGB Story - The Birth of the MGB in MG's Abingdon Design & Development Office

This book tells the story of the MG Design Office from 1956 until its closure in 1980. It explains how a small team of engineers designed, planned, and developed various models while adapting to changes in company leadership - from Morris, Wolseley, and Riley to Austin-Morris and Austin Rover. It also explores how the Triumph-Austin merger and U.S. safety regulations influenced MG's designs.

MG created record-breaking cars and ran a unique Competition Department. Special models were built and tested, and prototypes for an MGB successor were designed, alongside the production of MG cars using engines from across the BMC group.

The American market played a crucial role in MG's success, but corporate priorities shifted to the TR7, leading to the closure of a thriving and dedicated company.
Written by Don Hayter, Chief Engineer at MG Abingdon, this book covers MG models and prototypes from 1956 to 1980.

Information

Author:	Don Hayter
Details:	96 pages, 19 x 21 x 0.9 cm / 7.5 x 8.25 x 0.35 in, hardback
Illustrations:	76 b&w and colour photos
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing Ltd (GB, 2012)
Series:	Those were the days
ISBN:	9781845844608

Das Original: MGB, MGC, V8 - GT & Roadster

This reference manual is essential for all MGB, MGC, and V8 owners. It features top-quality examples of all models, both in words and pictures. The book includes detailed images of the body, interior, and mechanics. The text is thoroughly researched and complemented by numerous tables.

Information

Author:	Anders Ditlev Clausager
Details:	152 pages, 30 x 23 cm / 11.8 x 9.1 in, hardback
Illustrations:	265 colour photos
Publisher:	Heel-Verlag GmbH (D, 2016)
ISBN:	9783958433076

MGB Roadster & GT - Alle Modelle (1962-1980) - Praxisratgeber Klassikerkauf

As the successor to the MGA, the MGB was considered a modern car of its time, featuring a unibody design, roll-up windows, and a larger interior. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with 95 hp, combined with the car's low weight, provided good performance and agile handling.
Initially available only as a roadster, the MGB GT coupé was introduced in 1965. Due to its simple mechanics and good availability of spare parts, the MGB remains popular among classic car beginners.

MG expert Roger Williams has compiled key insider information in this guide for all 1.8-liter MGB and MGB GT models from 1962 to 1980.

This compact reference book helps buyers assess a car's condition and identify potential issues early. Practical purchasing tips prevent costly surprises. The book also includes a list of useful contacts and addresses.

Information

Author:	Roger Williams
Details:	64 pages, 21 x 15 cm / 8.25 x 5.9 in, paperback
Illustrations:	110 colour photos
Publisher:	Heel-Verlag GmbH (D, 2016)
Series:	Praxisratgeber Klassikerkauf
ISBN:	9783958433144