1967 MGC GTS#AD052/1060

1967. MGC GTS#AD052/1060. MBL 546E. Group 6, ex-Targa Florio, Nürburgring and Sebring. A very rare and unique opportunity, one of only two factory built lightweight MGC GTS to come out of the Abingdon MG “works” department before closure in 1970. MBL 546E known affectionately as “Mabel” raced successfully from 1967 through 1969 in four major long-distance events with no DNFs. Still has the original works supplied drive-train, including engine block, alloy head, intake manifold weber carbs, gearbox and rear diff. A pretty rare occurrence for a vintage race car of her age to still have the original drive line down to the small part details. The 2968cc Austin in-line 6-cylinder engine achieving 202 HP @ 6000 RPMs with gas flowed and polished aluminium head, intake manifold sporting triple 45 DCOE Weber carburettors and Downton exhaust manifold. Standard steel floor panel with lightweight alloy framing and skin panels. Girling brake discs all round with modified MGC suspension and steering rack. Mini-Light magnesium alloys or Triple-lace wires with K/O centres. ZF limited-slip differential, with close ratio straight-cut gears. 24-gallon fuel tank with 4” quick release fuel cap. A huge documented history with receipts, factory build sheets and featured in many magazine publications. A ground up rotisserie restoration by Symbolic Motor Cars, La Jolla, CA in 2008-2009 and finally completed in 2012. Racing results in period: - 1967 - Targa Florio driven by Paddy Hopkirk and Timo Makinen, finished 9th overall, 3rd in class. 1968 - 12 Hours of Sebring driven by Paddy Hopkirk and Andrew Hedges, finished 10th overall, 1st in class. 1968 - 84 Hours of Nürburgring driven by Tony Fall and Julien Vernaeve, finished 6th overall. 1969 – 12 Hours of Sebring driven by Craig Hill and Bill Brack, finished 34th overall, 6th in class. A beautifully illustrated book by David Morys "The MGC GTS Lightweights: Abingdon's Last Racers" gives a fascinating insight into the production, career and restoration of the MGC GTS Lightweights.