MG MGB 1973–1976 car dimensions: 3931 mm long, 1521 mm wide and 1267 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,100 kg. Braked towing is 762 kg.
The cabin has reclining bucket seats with adjustable head restraints, a centre console, lockable glovebox, and full instrumentation with electric tachometer. Heater/defroster is standard with high-speed blower and face-level fresh air vents. No factory air conditioning. Overdrive became standard on GT models later in the period. No electronic driver aids are listed.
The hatchback opens high to a carpeted rear platform that holds luggage or two small children. The rear seat cushion folds forward and the squab drops to create a flat load floor for extra space.
Maximum towing weight is 762 kg braked with recommended hitch load of 34-45 kg. Payload is around 204 kg. The GT uses uprated rear springs as standard to handle extra weight. The V8 version has a strengthened rear axle and larger cooling system with electric fans.
The cabin has reclining ambia or cord-nylon bucket seats with adjustable head restraints for two adults, plus a fold-flat rear bench for kids or extra luggage via the high-swinging hatch. Face-level fresh air vents, a heater/defroster with blower, padded sunvisors and fascia, centre console, lockable glovebox, carpeting and map pocket create a practical sports tourer feel. Tinted glass and heated rear window are available or standard on later cars.
Fuel tank holds 12-14 gallons.
Typical fuel use around 22-26 mpg for 1.8-litre. V8 lower.
Engine oil and filter change every 6,000 miles or 6 months.
Front kingpins need grease every 3,000 miles.
Dual-circuit brakes with front discs and servo as standard from 1973.
3-point seat belts, padded fascia, anti-burst locks and collapsible column on later models.
The 1.8-litre runs on petrol with twin SU carbs. expect mid-20s mpg in normal use and slightly better with overdrive. The V8 version uses more fuel but still offers long-distance range from the rear tank. Keep an eye on the electric fuel pump and evaporative controls fitted to many markets.
Factory service calls for oil and filter every 6,000 miles or six months, plus carb damper oil, distributor lube, gearbox and axle checks. Grease the six front suspension nipples and propshaft regularly. Kingpins wear fast without frequent attention. Brake pads, fluid and servo filter need periodic inspection.
Safety kit includes dual hydraulic circuits, 10.75-inch front discs, rear drums, servo assistance from 1973, laminated screen, 3-point belts (inertia reel optional then later standard), hazard lights, reversing lamps, padded steering wheel and fascia, anti-burst door locks. From late 1974 rubber 5 mph impact bumpers and raised ride height meet tougher rules. collapsible column appears then too. Body structure meets contemporary worldwide crash regulations.
Parts remain widely available so the car is straightforward to keep. Watch for rust in sills, floors, arches and battery trays. Regular oil changes and greasing keep the simple mechanicals reliable for daily or touring use. Overdrive aids relaxed high-speed running.
Length 3931 mm, Width 1521 mm, Height 1267 mm, Wheelbase 2312 mm (MGB 1973–1976)
Sources: manufacturer data, 1975 MG MGB GT US brochure.