Pre Production Prototype MGB GT

[Ian Jones]

Reference the anniversary of the MGB GT this year, I have a pre production prototype that was built between 3rd and 10th June 1965 then despatched to the development department of the MG Car Co Ltd. The car was registered on 4th January 1966. Can anyone shed any light on the prototypes? Thanks.

[John Watson]

Hi Ian
I interesting question, I have forwarded it on to Don Hayter to see if he has any info
John

[Ian Jones]

Hi John

Thanks for the information, much appreciated.

Ian

[Richard White]

Hi Ian
That's amazing as I didn't know that such a car exists.
Is there any chance that you could advise what the registration number is?
I hope Don comes back with something for you.
Richard

[Ian Jones]

Hi Richard

The registration number is WJB 910D and I've owned her since 1985.

Thanks

Ian

[Richard White]

Thanks Ian.

I wondered whether it was HBL125D which appears in the background of a photo in Bill Price's Competition book (page 196) as HBL 124D was the Pininfarina prototype.

Please let us know what you find out. You are a lucky fella!!

Richard

[Adrian Oliver]

Let's see a photo Ian!

[Ian Jones]

Hi Adrian

Not sure how to upload a photo to the forum but send me your email address and I'll forward one to you.

Just an update: This is some of the other information that we've found out:-

The chassis number is GHD 3/66443. The car is a pre production development prototype of the MGB GT. The original engine no. which was 18 GB-U-H/101 was from 1964 and was the first five bearing engine. The present engine no. 18 GB U-H-41880 was originally issued in May 1966 to another development MGB GT car (chassis no. GHD 3/93053). The original colour was blue and it came with disc wheels, a heater and an anti roll bar.

We used the car as a daily driver from 1985 to 1994 and it has been parked up ever since.

Ian

[Richard White]

Fascinating stuff Ian. The prototype HBL 124D was originally a chelsea grey (not many of them left!) roadster GHN3/9359 so a fair bit earlier than yours. I wonder what the production records at Gaydon say? Thanks for posting.

[Adrian Oliver]

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