1968 MGC GT

Positioned between the MGB GT and the MGB GT V8, the MGC GT offers a distinctive blend of refined styling, classic British motoring charm, and increased performance. Introduced in 1967 as a more powerful alternative to the four-cylinder MGB, it featured a larger engine, revised suspension, and a strengthened bodyshell to accommodate the mechanical upgrades.

Under the bonnet lies a 3.0-litre (2912cc) straight-six engine producing 150bhp, giving the MGC GT a more muscular character while retaining the balanced proportions and usability of the standard GT. Paired with a manual gearbox and overdrive, the car delivers strong mid-range torque and relaxed cruising ability – ideal for long-distance touring or spirited weekend drives.

This well-presented example has been with the vendor for the past five years. In that time, he has meticulously gone over the car, addressing several issues necessary to bring the MGC up to his desired standard. This included removing the engine for a complete de-grease of both the engine and bay. At the same time, a new clutch was fitted, along with a new electronic ignition system, stainless steel exhaust, and new propshaft. Interior upgrades included a full deep clean of the seats, new carpets, and a new steering wheel to bring it up to the correct spec.

It now runs and drives as it should, and will make the perfect summer cruiser for anyone wanting a British classic with that extra bit of oomph!

It’s that bulging bonnet that gives it away – this is no ordinary MGB.

Finished in its original colour of Sandy Beige, the MG presents very well with just a few minor blemishes picked up over the years. The car was restored in 2004, at which time it received many new body panels, including both doors. The fit and finish are excellent, with even panel gaps on both sides.

At the front, the chrome work is in very good condition. There are a couple of age-related marks, as you’d expect, but overall it presents nicely. Both the headlights and indicators are free from damage, and the bulging bonnet sits correctly with an even gap along each wing rail.

From the side, the chrome swage trim is level along the length of the car, and the window trims are all in good order with a bright, tarnish-free finish. The glass is free from noticeable scratches, aside from a few minor age-related marks.

At the rear, the chrome work is similarly bright. Both light lenses are free from splits or cracks, and the badges are in excellent condition.

The car sits on a set of silver-finished wire wheels. These show some signs of patina, but could easily be refurbished by your local specialist. The tyres are a matching set of Autogrip P308 Plus and are in near-new condition, having covered very few miles.

Inside, the MGC GT is in excellent condition, retaining its original period features just as it would have appeared in 1968. The seats are finished in red with white piping and remain in very good condition. The small rear seat is also in good order, as are both door cards.

The dashboard is in excellent condition, with no damage to the top or fascia. All instruments are reported to function correctly, and the odometer shows a reading of 80,012 miles. The switchgear is in good order, with only minimal signs of age to the lettering. Just to the left, a handy 12v charging socket and USB port have been discreetly installed.

The headlining is excellent and fits well with no sagging. All carpets have been replaced due to fading of the originals and now fit neatly, giving the cabin a refreshed look. A newly fitted MG steering wheel completes the interior update.

Inside the boot, there’s a spare wire wheel, along with a jack, knock-off hammer, some spare knock-offs, and spanners.

The 3.0-litre inline-six received work to the cylinder head several years ago, with details documented in the paperwork. More recently, the engine was removed for a full de-grease of both the unit and the engine bay. At the same time, a new clutch, propshaft, and stainless steel exhaust were installed, along with a new electronic ignition system for more reliable starting and running.

The carburettors and choke have recently been set up, and the engine now fires up at the turn of the key, sounding superb through the stainless exhaust. No issues have been reported with running.

The manual gearbox has also been overhauled and now delivers a smooth, precise change, with power transferred to the rear wheels via the newly fitted clutch and propshaft. The MG pulls strongly through all gears.

Braking is handled by discs at the front and drums at the rear, which have recently been overhauled. They operate as they should, bringing the car to a stop in a straight line with no judder through the pedal.

Underneath, the car was undersealed several years ago, which appears to have protected it well. There are a few areas of surface corrosion that could be cleaned up to future-proof the car further.

The MGC comes with a comprehensive history file dating back to the late 1980s. The documentation shows the car was restored in the 1990s and again in 2004, with various mechanical works carried out in between by different MG specialists to keep the car in fine fettle and what appears to have been regular use.

More recent invoices show that Cuerden Classics Ltd carried out work including installation of the clutch, exhaust, propshaft, and gearbox overhaul.

Included is a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, confirming that this is a UK-market car built between 22nd and 26th March 1968, and dispatched to Regent Motors, Cheltenham, on 28th March. It was first registered just days later, on 4th April 1968.

What’s not to love about the MGC GT? It strikes the perfect balance for a grand tourer – offering more performance than the base-model MGB, but without the extra weight of a V8 over the front axle. The subtle styling enhancements – especially that bulging bonnet – add a bit more visual drama, making this a standout British classic.

Over the past five years, the vendor has gone through the car with care, addressing mechanical and cosmetic issues to ensure it runs just as it should and looks its absolute best inside and out. This is a great opportunity for any classic car enthusiast to take ownership of a well-sorted example that’s ready to jump in and enjoy.

We estimate its value to be in the region of £15,000–£18,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are STRICTLY BY APPOINTMENT and we are open weekdays between 10am - 12pm or 2pm - 4pm. To make a booking, please use the ‘Enquire About This Vehicle’ button on the listing. Feel free to ask any questions, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.