I’m not saying that the MGB GT is the fastest, coolest, or most famous classic ever made. It’s not. But what I am saying, in my opinion at least, is that it could be the most underrated car of all time.
An extremely bold claim, I know….
Also, I should say now that I own a 1976 MGB GT, so I could be seen as being biased but, I am surrounded by classic cars every day and, no matter how special each one is, the MGB GT still stands out for me, whether I own one or not.
MGB GT – A Useable Classic
The MGB GT doesn’t shout about its presence and make everyone stare as it drives along the road. It just quietly gets on with being brilliant and lots of fun, which, ironically, is probably why so many people overlook it.
Designed by Pininfarina, the GT has proper fastback styling and is surprisingly classy for a car that was built to a budget. The coupe roofline looks good, but it also adds a layer of practicality that the roadster simply can’t. You’ve got proper boot space, a semi-usable rear bench seat, and a very real sense that this is a car you could actually live with.
And that’s the point. You can actually live with it.
The MGB GT is usable. It’s a classic car you can take to the shops, to work, or on a road trip, and it’ll probably get you home again without too much drama
Interestingly, though, people still seem to look at the MGB GT as a “starter classic.”
A Fun Car To Drive
I see the MGB GT as the real deal when it comes to classic cars. I look at mine the same way I would look at any other classic that is exciting to drive. It just so happens that it doesn’t have a huge price tag attached to it.
When it comes to driving an MGB GT, the best way I can describe it is fun. Very fun. I always enjoy driving mine regardless of the journey, and I always seem to have a smile on my face when I get home. As I said at the start, it’s not the fastest car, it’s not even the best looking (I would say it is in the top 5 though), but it is a whole lot of fun.
It’s also worth noting that parts are relatively easy to find, there’s a massive community of enthusiasts willing to offer advice (whether you asked or not), and the mechanics are straightforward enough that you can learn to fix it yourself. Or at least have a go before calling someone who actually knows what they’re doing!
I’m in no way denying the typical rust issues, electrical issues, leaky roofs, etc, I know they have always been potential issues, but it’s a 60-year-old British car, and I think most vehicles that fit that bill will have similar problems to deal with.
MGB GT In The Future
The automotive industry is changing quickly, and the future is something that doesn’t seem to have a clear outcome yet. Right now, the two most feasible future fuels are electric and synthetic fuel. I have seen the MGB GT work in both situations. Some have been converted to EV, while we run all of our competition Bs on synthetic fuel. I think the MGB GT has shown that it can still be relevant and usable in the modern world, just as it was at its birth.
The Most Underrated Car?
Maybe the MGB GT is too accessible or too simple. Either way, I still believe it could very well be the most underrated car of all time.
To me, the MGB GT is everything a classic should be. Stylish, usable, and very fun to drive. It’s not built to sit in a garage, it’s a car that should be driven.
Maybe I am slightly biased, seeing as I have one of my own, but what I will say is that every time I drive my MGB GT, I’m convinced I’ve made the right choice. Not because it’s rare or expensive. But because it makes me smile. Simple really!
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