1971 MGB Roadster

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Mark as you know I love watching you teach airplanes, but I have to say hearing the enthusiasm you have for these cars was truly fun. Nice history...congrats on the acquisition.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks for watching!

[@notyhbynorthwest]

Mark, I really could have done with watching this video 25 years ago. Some excellent tips and facts in your video. I was looking for an MGB, but ended up with a '76 MG Midget in excellent condition. There is just something about any MG in British Racing Green - they just look right, and yes, I was smitten by her despite those hideous black bumpers. Learned very quickly about the infamous electrical problems, and fortunately found a very good mechanic who had worked on MG's for years. The soft top was as complicated as the one on your MGB, and it took a good five minutes to raise it, even with practice. When my job transferred to Atlanta in 2009, the lack of air conditioning led to the hard decision to sell the Midget. I now drive a Miata MX5 with a big smile on my face. It has a good air conditioning system and so far, no quirky electrical problems. Cheers!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

The Miata is like a modern MG. Also a 2000 Jag XK8 is cheaper....

[@lancasternational2949]

Many thanks for the trip down memory lane...mine was a '60 MGA w/ side curtains which only marginally slowed the icy wind coming into the cabin. My daily commuter to a New England college in winter with the single-speed useless heater (total output: 3 BTU....wore blankets and gloves) and two 6-volt batteries behind the seats. When the unbelievably expensive batteries went bad, the only alternative for a destitute student was to use the through-front-bumper hand crank almost everyday...several times a day. I loved it in summer but the only time I have ever been so cold was walking back to my Stockholm hotel during a winter gale on ice covered streets. Have found your tutorials on a/c model changes and detail very, very helpful. Thanks again.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I had a 56 MG Magnette in England that I hand-cranked because I could not afford a battery. It had no bonnet on it either. If someone parked too close in front, I could not get the cranking handle in and I had to roll it back two feet. Also in MGB's in England I have driven to college wearing a black garbage bag over my feet.

[@lancasternational2949]

Then you had that technological breakthrough.......glass windows!

[@mamulcahy]

Mark, thanks for a delightful change of pace!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Watch the opening scene from Italian Job (1)

[@Saml01]

I love listening to you talk about cars and planes. I think your channel and presence is going to be huge.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I wish it would start being huge soon.

[@loequipment3746]

Love MGB’s incredible handling when lowered with a oversized sway bar…. Od, 5 main bearing block, British racing green, tonto cover……. So fun. Inspiration for the Miata.

[@davidduganne5939]

That looks like a lot of fun! Thanks for another informative and entertaining report. 👍

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Our pleasure!

[@dgriffin6074]

Thank you for a video on a beautiful motorcar. My mum was a Brit, so I am a bit of an Anglophile. I have owned 3 MGB roadsters, a '65, a '77 and my current one a '72. The '77 was purchased new as a gift for my wife; what a POS it was; in fact, the factory rep in Jax, Fl admitted that all the added weight from safety and emission requirements made them unreliable slugs. In the Florida Summer we not only could NOT use the air conditioning but had to turn on the HEATER in order to keep the engine from overheating! Also, compared to my '72 B, the power output was markedly decreased AND the '77 handled like a pig. On my way home from work, it was not uncommon to see the '77 MGB parked by the side of the road with the hood up, my wife having obtained a ride to get home when it quit. The '72, on the other hand has had 98,000 trouble free miles and gets driven 2-4 times a month. BTW, the convertible top (hood) will stow lower than you demonstrate. One must fold the side windows in and roll it into a snug "sausage" that will drop nicely into the space between the back of the seats and the shelf in the back. Also, you are off regarding production numbers; a bit more than 500,000 were manufactured, and, at least the older ones, are very popular. Those who own Mazda Miatas may not be aware that Mazda used the MGB as the model for creating the more RELIABLE and VERY popular Miata.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I agree with all this. The rubber bumpered cars were not needed in England, but we all had to put up with them because the US market dictated the design. It ended them though.

[@andyjgreen]

Lovely car. I’ve got a white LHD 3 Syncro ‘67 Roadster with ODrive over here in the UK. 2 litre engine and it’s rust has finally got so bad it’s in for a full resto. THE most enjoyable classic I’ve ever owned. That classic MGB throaty growl !

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks for sharing

[@jimsmall6779]

After coming home from the Army In the Spring of`69 to return to school in coastal Southern California, to fit my mood and budget I bought a red, `66 MGB. I drove her with the top down most of the time. The `B’s pre-smog 1,798 cc (108 cu in), cranked out 98 hp taking her 0-60, in 11 sec. Her delightfully notchy 4-speed had no O.D. so she was a noisy, 3,100 rpm at freeway speeds. However, she was great for cruising the Pacific Coast Highway and the mountain roads surrounding LA. The wood-rimed steering wheel and walnut veneer dash gave a genteel saloon appearance. The chromed wire wheels had winged knockoff hubcaps then (I still have the brass hammer from the wheel change kit). The chrome luggage rack gave her a GT look, which seemed to conflict with the sleek, Formula lines the tonneau cover gave. No headrests allowed for the tonneau’s easy installation across the passenger’s seat when driving solo, or the entire cockpit while parked. The ladies thought the `B was cute but didn't like the noise and the wind. Before loading a female passenger, I could quickly raise the top using two hands, while seated, if I had stowed it still attached to the rear deck, and the tonneau cover was in the trunk. After getting out to open the passenger’s door for the lady, I would discreetly snap the side panels before re-entering on the driver’s side. A year after I graduated, I was transferred to Dallas so traded my `B in for a new, 2398 cc, 124 hp, 2400 Z, with 5-speed, O.D. transmission. I have, however, have kept my fond memories of my `B.

[@busman46]

In 1977 my college roommate had a British Triumph Spitfire. He purchased it brand new and usually on Friday I would take him to the Triumph dealership in my 1972 Chevy Nova to pick his car up from beating worked on so he could have it for weekend dates. I prefer the style of the MGB. Great video as always.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks for sharing!

[@balsumfractus]

This brings back memories of my university days....lots of TR4’s, Alpines, Sprites, MGBs and Honda S600’s in the parking lots back then....... I had forgotten how much effort was involved in getting the top down....

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Same for me, Alpines and MGB's

[@EdsWorld56]

Ahem...not quite sure that's the official way of putting the roof down but great to see another MGB. Mine is a '72 and you know what, perfectly usable everyday, water tight hood, good brakes and fun to drive.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I could have done it neater, but that was the "principle" I suppose.

[@johnwinter9722]

Thanks for sharing. I have cared for a ‘65 B since I bought it from my grandfather in 1977. Mine is a roadster meaning the hood fabric comes off completely and you disassemble the hood-sticks. All of that goes into the boot. I recently retrofitted overdrive. Ironic that when I finally had some funds available to refurbish and upgrade (previously mentioned overdrive) my B, I now find getting into and out of it quite difficult. Once in, so much fun and memories.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I too found the B must have got smaller since I had them when I was younger.,...

[@marknorris1381]

I've owned two MG cars, a VVC model MGF, and a 1972 MGB, identical to Mark's car but red in colour - currently own. The F model was like driving a go cart but the B really is my favourite. Puts a smile on my face every time I drive it.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

They are fun cars!

[@guthrieglasgow7272]

I have one thats been resprayed in a very similar color to yours. Just spun a bearing autocrossing! very fun little cars and shockingly attainable. lots of parts too, which is good for me clearly.

[@MrWaalkman]

Back in the day I had a '64 TR4 and a '66 Impala convertible. The '64 TR4 was probably my favorite. The Impala was hard to beat though. These days, I've got a '72 TR6 and a '69 Corvair two-door hardtop. Nice MGB! I always took the TR4's top completely off, folded it neatly, and put in the boot. I saw far too many of them with cracked "glass". My TR4 was a positive ground, which I never converted. So I had to have a converter installed to run the radio. Radio Shack sold them back then. I blew the Powerglide transmission up in my Impala, and installed a donor three speed (from a $75 1966 Impala) with overdrive in it instead (this was 1975). Two things about the U.S. overdrives. 1) Any of them fit in any (U.S.) OD transmission. My Impala had a Chevy, Ford, and Chrysler OD in it. The roller bearings on the output shaft were the bugger. They will fall out during reassembly. The secret is to hold them in with a rubber band when you re-assemble the transmission, and never you worry about what happens to the rubber band. 2) The U.S. ODs are dead simple. Not sure what you Brits were smoking when you designed yours... The Impala went on to get an Oldsmobile cruise control as well as Cadillac 6-way seats. When I got my permanent driver's license at 18 in 1975, the driving instructor, who was Hispanic, asked if we could drive with the top down (of course!). The entire test consisted of me driving through his neighborhood while he waved to his friends.

[@DencoTBI]

Purchased a 1972 MGB in 1974. Looked just like yours. A memorable trip was from northern Michigan across Mackinac Bridge, west through the upper peninsula to Wisconsin, down to Oshkosh for the show, then south to Chicago where my wife leaned out to try to read road signs between semis. We were young then. Loved the car except it did require some hefty mechanical repairs.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

MG has been making motorists into mechanics for many years.

[@kevinmurphy3464]

One of my favorite cars I ever owned was my old 67’ MGB GT Coupe. It reminded me of beautiful old Alfa’s in regard to how many times they broke down, but when they worked they were awesome. Bummed when I had to sell it due to kids. With that said, I still have a bottle of Lucas smoke in case your wires have lost their’s. I have spares because I still have my 66’ T120 Bonnie.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

You are not alone in having to sell your ride for your kids.

[@gbaloyra]

Great car and great find!

[@larryweitzman5163]

Mark, I had a 1964 MGB roadster in BRG with wires with black leather so thick it was probably bullet proof. It was the last year with the three main bearing engine. What a fun car. I got stolen right out of my apartment car port. Gott paid off from insurance and when I went to Europe after school, I used the money to buy a brand new TR-6 also in BRG but a tan interior. Both had electric OD. It also was fun to drive.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

BRG is really the only color

[@larryweitzman5163]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 Yeah, back then BRG was THE color for anything of British performance, Jag, Cooper, AH and so on. Keep Skywagon university coming

[@colin5577]

I appreciate the matching shirt. Nice. My sister had a Heritage rebodied MGB Roadster just like yours but in red. She had it for 7 years or so and she managed to make sh*t of it in that time - you can’t let the list build up on cars like that but she never read that memo. I still got to have a few good goes in it, including a road trip to Spain. I wouldn’t pretend that it’s a great car - it really isn’t - but it’s a ridiculously fun car. I enjoyed it.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Yes, You have to maintain them. MG, a car company making owners into mechanics for 72 years.

[@ronstowe8898]

Love the reviews. Even the car. Maybe do more.

[@anthonyhfe6450]

One of the better MGB informative videos, and from someone who usually makes plane vids??? Well, there's nothing wrong with that. (He) Even knows exactly where and how they may rust. I have a '72. Wonderful cars. Mine is now 51 years old, so how bad could they be if many are still around in their original glory? Not bad at all my friends. I have nothing against Austin Healys as they're beautiful cars, but I'm willing to bet there are many more MGBs still being driven than them. Cheers and Happy Motoring!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Also remember that literally millions of MGB's were made in comparison to the Austin Healys. I'd like a 3000. No other..

[@anthonyhfe6450]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 Me too !!

[@SquawkCode]

Nice Mark! The contents of my dad's hangar when I was a kid were a Piper Cherokee, a Model A and a Spitfire (Triumph). You guys would have gotten along great.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Yes we would

[@barnabyzelman]

My first CFI owned one in the same color. Great memories. Later my multi-engine CFI had one of those personalized license plates: IM FLYN. Damn I miss flying!

[@ericcriteser4001]

My dad was a pilot. He said the MGB was the closest to flying a bi-plane as they come on the ground. I believed him and own two. Wonderful little cars.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

They are great old cars. I had a few in England.

[@biddlelove2135]

I've got a 74 but for flying I use my caterham r500

[@planeflyer21]

Thanks for this, Mark! My Mom had a Midget when I was 4 and 5. Spent lots of time in the shop. lol

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Right on!

[@malcolmwillis6450]

I owned a 1971 MGB in California in 1973, looked identical to this car, blue, wire wheels, 3 windshield wipes. I used it as a daily driver top down full tonneau cover with zipper down the middle for driver only operation. I drove that car from California to the East Coast pulling a small trailer.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks for sharing

[@iffyaviator]

when I was in Highschool and a airport ramp rat learning to fly. I worked for a guy on the field who restored old MGBS we put V8s in them, Rovers and Buick 215s. He had an old Stinson 108 fuselage hanging from the ceiling. His hangar was small, could only fit 3 MGBS in it and you had to crouch underneath the Stinson fuselage to get to the tool box.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Car people like planes and plane people like cars and old plane people like old cars etc. It is great to hear from you about this.

[@MGB-learning]

All MGB lives Matter and are outstanding cars. I have both the chrome and rubber bumper models. You learn to appreciate the rubber bumpers when you get in a minor collision.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

true

[@jbj27406]

It dawns on me that you're the perfect person to answer a question that's always bugged me. Since you have a wealth of knowledge and experience in many things aeronautical and automotive, and have lived many years in both environments in both the U.S. and the U.K., do you prefer a car with wheel on the left and driving to the right of the roadway, or do you prefer a car with wheel on the right and driving to the left of the roadway? Thanks for your great video tutorials and sharing your knowledge of general aviation aircraft.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I used to prefer the British side because I'm British, but now either one is as good as the other. I've had a few Right Hand Drive cars in the US which makes it great for checking the mailbox but hard in a drive-through or overtaking. I adapt in about 10 seconds when I go to the other country.

[@jbj27406]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 Thanks for your reply. It's funny how we can prefer one over the other. When I'm on a boat I absolutely expect the helm to be to starboard, but when driving or piloting an airplane I just about can't function in the right seat. I need my left hand on the yoke and my right hand on the throttle quadrant, or in the case of a car, my left hand on the wheel and the gearbox to my right. By the way, when I was a kid most of my friends were sports car guys more than muscle car guys. MGA, MGB's, TR-3's and 4's, TR-6's. There was the odd Porsche 356 and 914 and one guy even had a Sunbeam Tiger. I eventually was able to buy a 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 which I dearly loved and of course regret selling. Those MGB's are pretty tough and of course I prefer the steel bumper years too. A couple of side draft Weber's would really wake that thing up. Thanks again.

[@tomedgar4375]

I’m so spoiled by the top on the Mustang convertible. Unlatch the front lock and push the button. Fun car. My sister had one that was a great daily driver. Never had any of the finicky carb issues that many folks complain about.

[@rvrnnr987]

As a driver/caretaker of a '65 Land Rover Series IIa, I give a big thumbs up to this video... and I suggest that you check the oil, it's probably empty if it isn't leaking! LOL!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Very True

[@AviationZero]

My first car was a white 73 MGB with the two tone mags in San Diego. I could never get the duel carbs to sync and was a pain. The top leaked when it rained. But, how I loved that car.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I used to get soaked in mine in England with the roof up.

[@richardkimrey]

A friend had a 67 mgb with odd, I loved it. Later bought a 96 miata. Kept it 16 years. I thought it had the mgb feel. Good luck.

[@davidschipsi1316]

Had a 71 midget in Alaska in the early to mid 70s. Loved that car just seemed to fit in with the views. Actually was good in the snow and unpaved roads until I broke a leaf spring.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

They are very popular and good at a lot of things except keeping water out etc.

[@yesode4201]

Mark thank you for the videos! When was the last time you went to work?

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Right now. ha ha ha. That is my work.

[@yesode4201]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 I Love your style of Work! When will you be needing a assistant?

[@georgeground8967]

UTube thought I should watch this video again, it’s a little strange watching you talk and operate my little car. I just finished my restoration, fixed all of the little things. New top and top boot, replaced all of the suspension bushings, replaced starter, rebuilt the rack/pinion, new hubs wheel bearings tires and chrome spoke wheels, new stereo, rebuilt foothills door lock assemblies. It’s been fun, love the car. Do you know how the drivers side front “wing” got the bunch of scratches on the top?

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

KZbin is very wise.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Those scratches were a cover that was blowing in the wind. I got 90% of them off.

[@Qrail]

Wonderful review of a great car. As a kid growing up, the San Francisco Import Car Show was an annual “must see” event. K jell Quvale was the distributor of BMC here in the west. I was a 15 year old, foaming at the mouth for a 1969 MGCGT, which I thought was the best car at the show. Regarding the glossary: “Blighty” hasn’t been heard from you. Is that a descriptive word, or slang?

[@marknelson5929]

Just subscribed after finding your MGB link - but your a pilot/flying school instructor? Good choice with the MGB, glad to see you own it? Nice review and yes they seem to be the butt of all jokes (like yours). But it's like any car, especially an old car - look after it and it will look after you. I had a few in my younger days and one of my best was a 67 GT on wires with sunroof etc in the 1980s. I recently found the very car by chance online 4 sale after 36 years - I bought it back and its now home again. The car itself is still superb, because the previous 4 owners looked after it like I did.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

We enthuse about aircraft and from time to time, other interesting items. Must feel good to have your old car back in the garage!

[@marknelson5929]

Yes it is really good and is still in great condition. On purchasing it back I found its been fitted with a mild cam and close ratio gearbox. I'm sure you're aware the chrome strip on the leading edge of the bonnet of your MGB is missing?

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Yes, I saw that. Thanks. I'll get it.

[@flysport_tedder]

you should have filmed this on the runway, to confuse everyone who asks about why the airplane videos are filmed on a 'road'. delightful MGB! makes me miss my Miata.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

ha ha ha yes. True.

[@iansampson2492]

My Dad had a 72' that he bought at Serge Dermanian's High Performance Cars in Waltham MA...He would drive to work in it Hanscom Airport Helio Aircraft where he was Chief of Design...I drove it through high school...Great car...I remember tuning the SU carbs using a rubber tube and listening until they all sounded the same..

[@earlelkins9086]

There's that toe tappin music again.. almost bluesy. I like it, and the car. Very nice.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Hi Earl! The song is called Getting Hot. You can find it on Infraction Audio. I audition hundreds of songs before I find the right one, so appreciate the compliment! - Don the Camera Guy

[@earlelkins9086]

Thanks for the info Don!

[@musoseven8218]

That's living the dream in my book!✌️👍😊😄 A man after my own heart, I had a one lady owner, low mileage 1969 MGB GT that I did a gentle rolling resto on it to "Clubman" spec. That had overdrive and a factory oil cooler. Prior I had a AH MK1 Sprite (Frogeye) with 110bhp at the back wheels (I road rallied that and it was my daily driver and hardly had the roof on, only the tonneau cover and an umbrella, often a tweed jacket too✌️👍😄). My dad had a MGB GT V8, lots of torque albeit the detuned Buick motor. I always wanted a tweaked MGC GT, but they're silly money now, so beyond my wallet at this time. BGT used to understeer, oversteer and then understeer (I did upgrade the bushes and anti roll bar/sway bar). The BGT V8, just oversteer all the way and back in the day was also a hot hatch eater😄👍✌️😊. The MGC GTs understeered badly if not tweaked - but I've a soft spot for them all (a Webasto on a GT is a nice option too)💜👍✌️😊

[@ronrandall9215]

I had a 58 MGA . side window were removable, sliding plexiglass. My dad would spend hours tuning the sidedraft carbs. Later in life I had a 71 Corvette. This is noteworthy because it was the last year of chrome bumpers on vetts

[@ThatBobGuy850]

Not to be pedantic, but 'the '72 Corvette still had chrome bumpers. 1973 was actually the first year for the rubber front bumper on the Corvette. '73 still had chrome rear bumpers. '74 Vettes got rubber at both the front and the rear. One of my mentors was a Corvette freak back then, and forced me to learn all about the changes from his ''68 to his '74. I still remember without Googling it that the '74 rear bumper had a vertical split through the "Corvette" logo which they did away with in '75. The things I didn't wish I remembered :-/

[@ronrandall9215]

@@ThatBobGuy850 ok. My bad! I only enjoyed having one in my life. Thanks for the clarification.

[@jimcrowell5093]

Owned a 67 What a blast it was to drive Florida weather and salt took its toll on it😞

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

They do not like salt and moisture.

[@mboykin6047]

Sweet ride!

[@kasm10]

totally agree about the bumpers always was put off by that

[@JTEllis]

English sports cars own one and you will meet interesting tow truck drivers, garage mechanics, and Lucas electrics. They are great fun when you are not waiting for repair or walking. Neat MGB in this video, I enjoyed it.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks for sharing!

[@jeffhildreth9244]

More BS from those who never owned one.

[@regularguy3665]

One came up for sale near me recently and I genuinely considered selling my modern MG (SAIC built) and buying it. The wife then correctly pointed out that I have a car mainly for running our dog and daughter around and that bin wouldn’t be able to travel with both of them. She also had concerns about crash protection (“ I don’t care if you hurt yourself but it’s not fair on the kid”) so I changed my mind 😂

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

You have to have an MGB "as well" as another car with AC and a trunk etc.

[@maxfox3399]

My brother had a couple, my girlfriend had one (late 70''s) and every weekend brother and I would be up to our elbows fixing the bloody things. Fun to drive on a beautiful English spring day ... but trust me, I don't want another one.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Same here at College. We all would be fixing our cars on the weekend in the car park.

[@davidwhitman9609]

AhHa! I have a 64 Sprite with no top. I wondered what those two chrome hooks were for.

[@pi.actual]

Never had an MG but we did have a TR3, a TR4 and a GT6 but then went full Italian Job and jumped ship to Alfas with all that futuristic hi tech stuff like overhead cams, disc brakes and fuel injection, Still have my '72 Spider that survives to this day thanks to this beautiful California climate.

[@HomemadeHarley]

fold the side windows over the top then close the roof with the rear window over laying the back and flip it over the top of the folded roof. saves all the windows from getting creased and damaged.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks. I was rushing for the camera. I like the "packaway" tops that go in the boot. Much cleaner look.

[@jeffhildreth9244]

1962 to 1974 1/2 chrome bumpers.. after that date RBB to 1980. Front turn signal lenses are on backwards... long side goes to the outside. Nice looking car.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks.

[@johannviljoen64]

Ah there we go, nice one. I would not fit in there no matter what. I had people traveling 150km to get those SU carburettors to me for tuning (weekend mechanic) . Grew up with those on the Volvo's, Viva GT, Datsun SSS and mini's from the sixties and early seventies. We didn't have a mechanic close by, so we had to learn to tune and balance those ourself.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

When they are good, they are very good.

[@FlyingNDriving]

I'm no A&P but I don't think that's an airplane good sir!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

It must be a Bi-plane because it has four wings.

[@helge000]

Wow, from the 70's and no AD on the wing spars!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

No AD's on the "wings" but they can rust.

[@waetos]

Hello Mark, Retired USNavy F4 Phantom flyer here who has been living in Australia after marrying a local lass I met while our carrier, the USS Independence, CV62, hit the port of Fremantle back in 1980. I've been meaning to ask you what the ICAO code of the airport you do your show from is? Being an avid flight simmer when not piloting a physical plane, I'd love to do a few circuits where you are. Also, seeing as the pattern altitude is 3,400', I assume the field elevation is 2,400' - correct? Also, how often, if ever, do you use runway 5? Does the wind ever blow from a NE direction? PS - Can you guess the make and model of the aircraft I'm standing next to in my profile picture? Hint: it's an aerobatic trainer made by a French manufacturer. Love your show mate. 👍✈️

[@johnmohanmusic]

The MGB and the MG Midget had to have three windscreen wipers in America to meet the Federal Regulation that required at least a certain percentage of the windscreen to be covered by the wipers.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

It's ironic considering it rains a lot more in England.

[@stlflyguy]

Love it! I used to fly a British Aerospace aircraft and I remember it as “many great ideas, poorly executed.”

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

True. Like MGs and old Landrovers, "Turning motorists into mechanics for 70 years"

[@stlflyguy]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 LOL. I’ll remember that one!

[@johnfitzpatrick2469]

G,day Mark from Sydney Australia. I'm still thinking about the turbocharger and intercooler on the piper type III. Basically, I understand one would only want a turbocharger if it's receiving cooled air to "ram' into the cylinders? Morris Garages Very nice MGB, it's in excellent condition. 🌏🇭🇲

[@georgeground8967]

So Mark, i commented recently about your size because i was concerned as to weather i would fit in it. You advised me to find one and try it on. Later I found/purchased one and wrote to you that it looked like a clone of yours…does the license plate 71MGLUV ring a bell? It now lives in Modesto, Ca

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Wow you bought my MGB. It's a very nice one.

[@nancychace8619]

Fun little car. I had a friend many years ago who used to give me a lift to school in one. I would always arrive like Queen Nefertiti! 🙂

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

As a lady you have to get out in as dignified way as you can.

[@nancychace8619]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 Lol - not in California! Ha!

[@AndyRRR0791]

The cutest thing about the MGB is that they used to push them down the assembly line by hand.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Why not start as you mean to continue?

[@AndyRRR0791]

@@skywagonuniversity5023Did you do a lot of pushing in your time...?

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Oh yes, pushed them all, Sunbeams, Astons, Morris's, Land rovers, MG's, Jags, Triumphs, Bentleys. I could go on. :-)

[@AndyRRR0791]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 Hopefully you had friends to help you with the Bentleys

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

@@AndyRRR0791 Erm, Yes, sometimes. A 52 Bentley Mk 6 is a heavy beast.

[@wespotter6985]

What's the average crew speed and service ceiling

[@JohnDoe-we9yk]

Service ceiling 😂😂😂😂👍

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

It's at 2575 feet right there.

[@heinb7]

Beautiful car

[@Jerrylumdegaard]

I thought you were gonna say there’s no oil under it because it doesn’t have an engine in it. Lol. Nice little car.

[@LittleManFlying]

My grandfather was a sports car rally and track driver from the 40s through the 60s. He claimed he once owned an MGA with a six cylinder Continental aircraft engine in it. I so want that to be true 😊

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

2500 RPM max.

[@LittleManFlying]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 I suspect that I misunderstood him and he meant it had a Continental supercharger 😊

[@MrBluoct]

Would have enjoyed the OD on my 69’. Nevertheless, these are a next level blast to drive All too often… 3 passengers 😎

[@robbyowen9107]

Nice!!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks!

[@craigg4925]

I love those cars, I have owned 3 so far, and I'm 6'5". and you need to let the car warn up before you drive it.

[@gpsteel4220]

Obviously Mark; a ''Bonnet" is something a little girl wears on Easter Sunday, and a "boot" is something one wears on their FOOT when using a saddle, or Line Dancing.😁😆 Points i'm always happy to make when I'm in Aberdeen for work. Have you yet done a video on the 190 or 195 cessna? My 1974 TR 6 was also kind of a piece of junk. Sorry; no offense.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

ha ha thanks. But a "hood" is a fabric head covering and a Trunk is an elongated nasal proboscis used by Elephants to pick fruit and spray water.

[@loddude5706]

No stringback gloves, no boiled sweets, not even a cravat; & where's the cricket bat! : )

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Not even a flat-cap or an RAC membership badge on the grille either.

[@David-vf9de]

Lights out Lucas....

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Lucas........ Prince of darkness.

[@wespotter6985]

It's an open question whether or not these will ever really be collectible. They're hard to keep on the road with the finicky carbs

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

They are already collectable.

[@EdsWorld56]

The carbs are ultra simple. Mixture and idle. The floats and jets are simple too. Have never had an issue with them

[@jeffhildreth9244]

More BS from the inexperienced.

[@ThatBobGuy850]

Great video, dude! In 1968 I was 13 and there was a sort-of-abandoned MGB on our block. It was drivable but the owner never moved it. I lusted after it. Later in life, I got to drive an MGB and was disappointed. How crude! the motor seemed like it came out of a British-Leyland tractor. I always fantasized about swapping it for a DOHC engine from a Jap car (any Jap car). I recently mentioned this to a friend of mine who looked at me like I was crazy. "Why bother?" he asked. "Mazda already did that with the Miata." Sadly, he was right. The Miata is the modern embodiment of the MGB.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Yes it is.

[@Doug_Narby]

I notice you didn’t mention the electrical system amongst the positive attributes, i.e. runs/doesn’t leak…. 🤨 I commuted in a BRG 1979 Midget for years

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Lucas, Price of Darkness.

[@jeromehiggins3001]

I have a buddy who keeps his Triumph Spitfire in his hanger. He one day decided to let me drive the car. The car is so low to the ground, I said, "Should I open the door, or should I step over it to get in the car.

[@georgeground8967]

How tall are you? Pant inseam length? Im thinking of buying an MGB,

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I'm 5ft 11. 200 Lbs. Normal proportions. I have the seat all the way back and no bugs hit my forehead.

[@georgeground8967]

6’3”, 235lbs. More concerned about leg room.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

@@georgeground8967 I'd find one locally and sit in it before you buy one.

[@georgeground8967]

That’s my plan, monitoring the various web auction houses, looking for pre 72…no rubber bumpers. Enjoy your channel, i got my pilots certificate in 72 while working at the airport pumping fuel while still in high school. Some of my best memories.

[@georgeground8967]

Well, today I took possession of a 1971 clone of your MG. A couple of things to fix but i love it.

[@joekelley1014]

I had a 1972 maroon in color. Fun to drive, a 5 speed tranny would have been nice!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

yes, 5 speed or Overdrive.

[@craigpennington1251]

Love the MGBs. I've owned 4 of them that I put well over 135,000 miles on each of them. Great little cars that run like crazy with little to no problems. They weren't speed demons unless you had the V8 models. Wish that they were still made exactly like this one & NOT the new trash they're making today, meaning (retro styled) & computerized crap. Right at 500,000 were produced of all MGB models until 1980. All of my Bs didn't have the noises that is claimed here.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

So true.

[@jeffhildreth9244]

Closer to 525,K were built.

[@tannerfrerichs7629]

Did I watch the opening scene of Italian job 1 just cause he told me to? Yes; yes I did

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

You have to watch it every now and then.

[@davidcole333]

You're better than old Mike and Edd from Wheeler Dealers!...well, maybe not Edd, he was the MAN!

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks.

[@zaum2002]

Why don't the British make computers ? They couldn't figure out where to put the oil leak. Ha Love the MGB, mine is a '74.

[@kasm10]

50 yrs from now, will people be collecting the cars made today?

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Which ones?

[@kasm10]

@@skywagonuniversity5023 exactly. Had to edit my statement to a question

[@peterknight4692]

Nice car. I was expecting a full power burn down the runway. I guess without a radio they wouldn't let you on there.

[@LittleManFlying]

Ooooooh! Lancair Columbia 400!

[@bmill3113]

The three wipers were only on the Midgets, mate.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I had a 1970, a 1972 and a 1977 MGB Roadsters and all have three wipers.

[@jeffhildreth9244]

BS 71 and Later Bs had 3 wipers.

[@STEELERSblt]

My 71 has 3 wipers its a B

[@craigbabe1265]

You will ruin your roof that way. When done properly, it will fold to be level with the rear cowl so you have the 1/2 tonneau cover.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I know, it was a bit rushed because of the video. My MGB's were old enough to where the soft top and frame came right off and went in the boot. Much cleaner.

[@dojmike]

Too bad you can't pull up to the airplane petrol pump and put in some LL100 which would be perfect for the high compression MG motor. I often wonder how many folks actually use AV petrol for their classic cars.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I do that, 100LL goes very well in an old car without a catalytic converter, It's like 5 star in the old days. Every now and then a few gallons that are removed from a plane go into an old car. If the engine is low compression you can get bad plug fouling from the low lead though.

[@Fang70]

No, you're correct. The rubber baby buggy bumper MGBs were crap.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Yes they were.

[@DWBurns]

It was me who asked. I also asked about your truck last year when you cow was pregnant. Your truck likely still needs lifted and a louder exhaust put on it. I am the degenerate from Redding who worked at ExecJet, now NetJets for 20 years, live in Columbus, Ohio and have a 1973 Arrow II, they are different from other Arrow II’s, do a video on that. From seeing you get in you car, it explains how you fly a Mooney. You get in them the same.

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

It was a lot easier to get in and out when I was 18.

[@FlightSimDude]

👍

[@Impimpster2000]

Whoops, Mark is FULLY 'Merican! Hell yeah! ᕙ⁠(⁠ ͡⁠°⁠ ͜⁠ʖ⁠ ͡⁠°⁠)⁠ᕗ Flexin' his Brit 🤓

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

It comes out after a pint.

[@andrewsmactips]

I got all that, but what's an arse?

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Hmmmm I need that glossary again. ARSE, = derriere, bum, backside, ass. etc.

[@simonmetcalf124]

Pity it didn’t have electric overdrive

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

I know. That makes them so nice. You can add it though. Change the gearbox and rear propshaft.

[@jeffreydelk2361]

Take 3 minutes to read the manual on how to fold the top! Required reading - especially if you are going to bake a video about the car. 😮

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

Thanks, I know. I've owned 26 MGB's packaways, folders etc. I did not want to linger and bore people with the intricacies of putting it down so I just put it down.

[@billmcgarry3300]

I was 18 years old and I bought a 1964 MGB which started my addiction to little British sports cars. Austin Healey 3000’s, Triumphs and now a ‘67 Sunbeam Tiger and a ‘39 Jaguar SS100 satisfy the ongoing urge 🥸

[@skywagonuniversity5023]

A nice collection.