Home / MG /

1963 MGB - DESIRABLE EARLY PULL HANDLE - "NUT & BOLT" REST. 2 OWN CA. OVERDRIVE!

1963 MG MGB RESTORED CA. "B" for sale in Pleasanton, California, United States

Item location: Pleasanton, California, United States
Make: MG
Model: MGB
SubModel: "B"
Type: Convertible
Trim: RESTORED CA. "B"
Year: 1963
Mileage: 48,960
VIN: GHN3L11285
Color: IRIS BLUE
Engine size: 1.8 Liter
Number of cylinders: 4
Fuel: Gasoline
Transmission: 4 SPEED & OVERDRIVE
Drive type: RWD
Interior color: DARK BLUE LEATHER
Drive side: Left-hand drive
Options: Convertible, Leather Seats, Heater, Full Tonneau, Fold Away Top
Vehicle Title: Clear
Want to buy? Contact seller!

Description for MG MGB 1963


1963 MG B
Absolutely Gorgeous "Nut & Bolt” Restored 1963 MGB
Desirable "Pull Handle” Early "B” - Numbers Matching Engine & Over-Drive
Finished in Desirable Iris Blue w/ Dark Blue Interior /
Matching Dark Blue Canvas Convertible Top, Boot Cover / Tonneau
__________________________
NOTE: Our listings are rather lengthy. They not only describe this particular car but also some history of the make/model, considerations in buying a classic car and facts about our firm. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read the full listing, please read the OVERVIEW below along with the PHOTOGRAPHS at the bottom. If you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the MGB and answer any questions over the telephone, including our "Buy it Now” policy. Yes, the MGB can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction.
PHOTOGRAPHS
PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON eBay WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE CLOSE TO 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THIS MGB, BUT WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL DOWN ON eBay TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THEM, PLEASE CALL US AT 925-846-1451 AND WE WILL PROVIDE A DIRECT LINK. NOTE: IT IS A VIOLATION OF eBay POLICY FOR US TO LIST THE URL ON THE eBay LISTING. PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF ANY PART OF THE MGB. ALL OF OUR PHOTOS ARE TAKEN IN NATURAL LIGHT AND WE DO NOT "PHOTO-SHOP” OR TOUCH-UP THE PHOTOS IN ANY WAY.
INTRODUCTION
This car is offered at a realistic price and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information and history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for 25 years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with nearly 940 positive eBay feedback responses.
Please keep in mind that we will gladly...
1. Answer any questions over the telephone and take the time to guide prospective customers through the buying process (925-846-1451).
2. Assist with locating a quality, suitable transporter at very competitive prices.
3. Provide proof that we are licensed, bonded (for the financial transaction), fully insured, and operate from an established showroom environment.
4. Provide feedback from previous buyers, and specific references for vehicle purchases in your area (we also ask that you view our detailed eBay feedback by clicking on the number to the right of the eBay user name)
5. Offer additional information including specific photographs or clarification of any part of our description of the vehicle
Thank you again, please let me know if I can be of assistance.
Happy "eBaying"!
Paul R. Wankle, Pres.
Classic Cars Ltd.
Pleasanton, CA
925-846-1451
OVERVIEW - THIS PARTICULAR 1963 MGB
To say that this original California "Born & Raised” MGB is a unique example would be an understatement. Delivered new in Southern California, the car spent its early life with its original owner and was sold by an elderly widow upon her husband's passing. The car was his pride and joy, and remained in original and un-restored condition for the first 30 years of its life. It was a solid California car that ran and drove well but was in need of mechanical freshening including a rebuilt transmission due to a noisy 1st gear and a front end rebuild. The body was straight, free from rust, but had been touched up a number of times with different, non-matching paint, due to scrapes and bumps from the Senior owner. The interior remained factory original and in its original configuration.
For collectors / enthusiasts who find history an important part of purchasing a collectible vehicle, this car will definitely have appeal. In addition to comprehensive restoration documentation, the MGB has a log book dating back to 1966, shortly after the car came off of its new car warranty. The log book supports that the ownership but, more important, the owner's fanatical care of the car. It includes:
- The original cars identifying information (Car #, Engine #, Body #) that remain unchanged today.
- The log book documents virtually every repair from 1966 through August 20, 1987 when the car had a documented 142,921 miles.
- It also includes regular compression checks, the last of which was 150/155/155/155 (prior to the rebuild).
- Old, weathered receipts dating back to the 1980's
- The original Bill of Sale to the second and recent owner dated July 29, 1995
- Incredibly extensive restoration receipts in a binder 5+ inches thick and a CD of restoration photographs
After enjoying the "B” as a "driver” for a time and thoroughly assessing the cars needs, the decision was made to undertake a complete, ground up restoration to bring the car back to its original glory. The restoration is documented by a binder with comprehensive receipts, product information and reflecting virtually everything that was done to the MGB. The cars new owner will also include extensive photographs during and after the restoration that was completed approximately 7,500 - 9,000 miles ago. The MGB was offered for sale by the second, long-time owner who saw it through the restoration due to it being used less frequently, and the owner's lifestyle changes.
THE NUMBERS
This MGB is titled as a 1963, with data plates reflecting the following #'s: Car # GHN3L / 11285 & Engine # 18G-U-H-11653.
Based on data from the North American MGB Register, the Car (VIN) # decodes as follows:
GHN3L / 10100
G = MG
H = Engine Type
N = Body Type (2 Seat Tourer / convertible)
3 = Series Number (3rd Series)
L = Drive (Right or Left) - Left in this case
11285 Car Production Number / Engine # 18G-U-H-11653
The British Heritage Certificate (attached), supports that the car has "matching numbers" and remains in the same configuration as it was manufactured on April 26-29, 1963. Details include:
- Car/Chassis Number: G-HN3-L/11285
Engine Number: 18G-U-H/11653
- Body Number: 10792
- Specification - LHD North American Import
- Colour BRG, black trim, grey hood
- Date of Build: April 26-29, 1963
- Destination: USA
Details of Factory Fitted Equipment: Disc wheels, black tonneau cover, fold-away hood (convertible top), ashtray, MPH speedometer.
This important document further adds to the history of the MGB. While the color was changed to Iris blue, the entire car was disassembled and no signs of the original color remain.
Restoration details include the following:
The car was completely disassembled down to a rolling chassis and delivered to Dave Wellwood, Wellwood Auto Restoration located in Ventura (please Google for information about Wellwood as we are unable to show the URL due to eBay restrictions) where the cars condition was assessed by a professional. The car was found to have very solid floor pans, inner metal panels and body integrity. Some metal was replaced on the inner baffle along with the outer sills and a new trunk lid (original had holes from a luggage rack), aluminum bonnet. Other minor body repairs were completed to a high standard and the car was then primed and painted with a 2 stage, base coat/clear coat paint. Once the car was brought back the front cross member was removed for powder coating.
Once returned the car was reassembled with quality components, many of which were New Old Stock (NOS) components. A summary includes:
ENGINE / DRIVE-TRAIN
- Compete engine Rebuilt by British European Auto located in San Pedro included rebuilt head with hardened valves for unleaded, fuel, new pistons connecting rods bearings. Crank checked and turned, engine balanced.
- Period correct O/D rebuilt transmission purchased from Moss Motors along with correct harness and associated relay. (Transmission recently rebuilt within 1,000 miles due to initial improper rebuild of Moss supplied unit and functioning perfectly).
- Air cleaner covers powder coated
- New oil cooler and associated lines
- New wiring harness
- New heat shield
- Carburetors rebuilt
- New fuel lines
-Moss Motors stainless steel exhaust.
BRAKES / CLUTCH
-NOS brake and clutch master cylinders were sourced and installed
-Clutch and throw-out bearing recently replaced with transmission rebuild
ELECTRICAL
- LED brake light installed
- Wiring harnesses replaced.
- Converted to single 12V battery
-Converted to negative ground by British European Auto
- New Fuel Pump
- New Coil
-Spark Plug wire replaced at time of restoration and again just recently (July 2017)
FRONT END
- Front cross member powder coated
- New King pin assemblies
- New shocks
- New A-arms with sway bar provisions and associated spring pans
- New Springs
- New sway bar linkages and stock size sway bar
- Polyurethane bushings installed
- Cross drilled and slotted rotors with Moss motors upgraded pads installed
- Braided brake lines installed
- Calipers rebuilt
- New Bearings installed
- Rear end
- New stock leaf springs installed with new hardware (U-bolts etc.)
- Polyurethane bushings installed
- New shock absorbers installed
- Differential was inspected, with new brass thrust washers installed
HEATER / COOLING
- Heater box powder coated
- New Heater Core
- New Heater valve
- New Radiator and associated hoses
EXTERIOR
- Bumpers replaced with NOS items
- Bumper mounting bars replaced with new (front and rear)
- New Overrides
- New Side Trim
- New Trunk emblems
- Replaced fasteners with new
- New Halogen Headlights and associated trim rings
- New Rear light assemblies complete with chrome trim and Lucas Lenses
- New wing mirrors
- New Antenna (Radio delete at this time cut set-up for radio)
- Door / Trunk locks replaced
- New windshield glass
- All seals replaced
INTERIOR
- Seat frames replaced
- Seat foam and covers replaced Blue/blue from Roadster factory
- Interior panels replaced with Roadster Factory kit
- Carpet interior and trunk by Prestige Auto trim
- New Seat belts to match
- Water / oil gauge repaired by British European Automotive
- All toggle switches replaced
- Recently replaced a few of the dash lights with LED
- Rheostat replaced
- Door pulls replaced with new
- Door Release was replaced but reverted back to the original due to the cheap replacements breaking
- Chrome map light cover replaced
- Windshield washer push button replaced.
- Tach replaced due to original bouncing
- Center console installed
- New shiftier nob
-Rubber transmission boot replaced
- Battery cover powder coated.
- Replacement top bows (Originals were not provided with the car)
-Canvas top by Prestige Auto trim
WHEELS / TIRES
- Wheels powder coated (color to match original) and clear-coated for better protection
- New chrome hub cabs
- Whitewall tires from Diamond back classics
MISCELLANEOUS
.- Fuel tank replaced with new
- New fuel Sending unit
- New original style jack bag
- Tonneau cover bars and associated bag
- Hubcap remover
- MG brake and clutch pedals
- Fresh air door on the bulkhead powder coated and seal replaced.
COSMETIC CONDITION
As a result of the cars comprehensive restoration, it remains in lovely condition as the photos suggest. While the restoration was completed several years ago, the MGB has been driven minimally with an estimated 7,500 - 10,000 miles accumulated on clear California weekends and evenings. The body remains free from damage, paint is excellent and the interior shows well with normal patina on the leather seating surfaces. The factory correct / original boot cover is in very good condition and the car comes with its original full tonneau cover that will need a zipper to be properly fastened. The blue canvas top is very solid with clear windows but has been up so it shows some aging on the underside of the top. However, it fits well and all of the proper fasteners / snaps are in place. The exterior trim is brilliant having been replaced with NOS parts or re-chromed / plated. The wheels, hubcaps and tires add a beautiful touch for an early MGB and are in great condition.
This particular MGB is certainly a car that can be proudly displayed at any British or other car show and has the potential of receiving recognition and drawing considerable attention. It's desirable and difficult to find color combination adds to its appeal as does its interesting history and long term California life.
The extensive photographs reflect the car's condition including the body, paint, engine compartment, interior, trunk and underside. There are no indications of previous accident damage or replacement of body panels.
DRIVABILITY
The MGB starts immediately, idles smoothly and does not overheat. It runs and drives incredibly well, cruising comfortably at highway speeds as a result of the fully functional and immediate engaging overdrive unit (just rebuilt within 1,000 miles). The engine is very strong and does not exhibit any issues. There is no smoking or unusual noise in the transmission and drive-line components. The MGB has excellent power through all of the gears and does not hesitate or exhibit drivability problems.
The transmission shifts normally and the clutch engages and does not chatter or make noise. The brakes stop the car straight and sure. The emergency brake is fully functional and holds the car on a relatively steep incline. The steering is tight and precise and the car offers handling that will leave the driver with a smile for miles to come.
The MGB shows current mileage as 48,965. We are listing the mileage as "TMU" (Total Miles Unknown) as a result of the cars age and inability to accurately verify the mileage on a vehicle that is 50+ years old. However, based on the original owners log and the vehicle history, the mileage of 148,965 on the chassis appears to be accurate.
OTHER
• Passed the California required safety inspection with no findings. This includes functional wipers, turn signals, lights, brakes, tires, and suspension components.
Also included with the MGB are the following:
• High quality car cover
• Repair Manuals
• MGB Book
SPECIFICATIONS OF THE 1963 MGB
• Engine: 1.8 L, 4 cylinder in-line, single cam, 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod, front mounted
• Carburetion: dual SU HS-4
• Power: 89 hp @ 5,400 rpm
• Torque: 110 lb-ft. @ 3,000 rpm
• Transmission: manual 4 speed, synchromesh top 3 gears / Overdrive in 3rd & 4th
• Drive: rear wheel
• Brakes: front - "10.75” discs, rear -"10” drums
• Weight: 1984 lb.
• Length: 153.5 inches
• Width: 60.2 inches
• Height: 49.6 inches
• Wheelbase: 91.3 inches
• Ground clearance 4.2 inches
• Turning circle 32 feet
HISTORY OF THE MGB
When the MGB was introduced in 1962, it was a two-seat open roadster with squared-off styling in the MG Midget mold. It had a pancake-style rear hinged hood, full width grille, scalloped recesses for the headlights in the tops of the front fenders, a separate trunk with a hinged lid, and canted rear lights in the ends of the rear fenders. The windshield was curved, there was a removable soft-top, and the doors had roll-up windows with hinged vent windows.
The MGB was actually a bit shorter than the MGA, but the design was such that MG had managed to make the cockpit roomier which allowed larger, more comfortable seats to be added. Both the driver and passenger had bucket seats, and full instrumentation was provided.
A year later in 1963, among the options offered for the MGB were an overdrive for the transmission, center hub mounted wire wheels, and a folding soft-top that could be stowed behind the seats. In 1964 a new bottom-end for the engine, derived from the BMC 1800, was fitted.
In the tradition of the earlier MG sports cars, the MGA had been built with a separate chassis to provide support and strength to the car and to carry all the mechanical components and the body. By the end of the 1950's however, methods of car construction had progressed, and the days of the separate chassis were almost over. Unitary construction was now the name of the game, whereby a cleverly designed body shell constructed from a number of metal panels with a reinforced floor pan, provided mountings for all the mechanical components and absorbed all the loads from the suspension etc. The advantage of this type of construction was that it produced a much lighter car, which has obvious performance benefits for a sports car.
Hence, the MGB was to be built of unitary construction. At the front, the front panel, the inner fender panels and firewall formed one box; in the midsection, the firewall, cockpit floor and cowl formed another; while at the rear, the inner fenders, trunk floor, and rear panels formed another. Box section strengthening pieces were added to the floor to stiffen it and provide mountings for the rear suspension, while additional box sections ran along the bottoms of the front inner fenders for the engine and suspension mountings.
The front suspension and steering were much like the MGA, although there were minor differences. At the rear were the familiar semi-elliptic springs controlled by lever-arm shocks. The engine and transmission were also MGA sourced, but again in an improved state.
Many sports car enthusiasts believe that MGB's epitomize the classic British sports car. By the mid-1960's the MGB had very nice performance, handling and was comfortable for longer journey's (unlike the earlier MGTD's, "TC'S", etc). Also, these cars are not only great fun to drive and economical to operate, they get great mileage. The MGB represents a fuel efficient solution to a fun, affordable and practical sports car.
PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER
As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background for any collector car being sold over the Internet. It is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to:
- How long have they been in business?
- How much experience do they have with collector cars?
- How many positive collector car vehicle sales have they completed (positive eBay feedback)?
- How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle?
- Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "glamour shots" taken from a distance?
- Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction?
- What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license?
- Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances?
- Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation?
- Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales?
ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD.
- Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 20 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles.
- The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair.
We have sold hundreds of unique, classic and collectible vehicles and regularly deal with buyers that have not had the experience of purchasing a large (both physically and monetarily) item on eBay, or through an Internet source. Our eBay feedback is 100% positive on all vehicle sales from customers around the globe and is a reflection of our commitment to accurate, complete, and thorough vehicle descriptions.
- We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) for the cost of open shipping.
- Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 780 positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World.
- We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World.
- Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions
- We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area.
MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION
- As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet.
- In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject
to sales tax, a documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license/registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law.
- While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail we will not respond to inquiries asking "What is the reserve". Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you.
- We encourage inspections of this MGB by serious, qualified individuals or professional inspectors. Please call at 925-846-1451 to arrange a convenient time.
- As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd.
- Minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!!
- The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and significant data prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering.
Thank you,
Classic Cars Ltd.
925-846-1451
Specifications:
Body Type / Style:Convertible
Exterior Color:Iris Blue
Interior Color:Blue Leather
Engine:4 Cylinder
Transmission: 4 Speed Manual
Mileage:48960
Drive:Rear
Doors:2

Equipment:
"Black Plate" California Car
12 Volt
California Lic & Reg
Convertible Boot Cover
Fresh Transmission
Front Disc Brakes
Full Instrumentation
Functional Horn
Heater / Defroster
Incredible Documentation!
Leather Seats
Matching Numbers Engine
No Rust CA. Body
Original California Car
Original Jack & Tools
Originally Black Plate CA Car
Overdrive Transmission
Radio Delete
Rear Storage Area
Repair History
Repair Receipts
Runs / Drives Very Well
SEE DESCRIPTION.....
Seat Belts (Front)
Smiths Gauges
Stainless Steel Exhaust System
































































































Brtish Heritage Certificate


Terms & Conditions
  • Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd.
  • The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451.
  • Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction.
  • Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California.
  • To avoid shipping the title with the car to our out of state buyers, we mail the title via Priority Mail.
  • While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location.
  • We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid.

Thank You & Happy Bidding
Classic Cars Ltd.
Other classic cars for sale