Mallard Green 3121 is a tax exempt 1972 MGBGTV8 Conversion (Chassis G23D0555562, engine number A2503420A). Much loved and cared for car, with over £12,000 spent in recent years. The car has been garaged in Fulham, London since the Summer of 2004 and for nine years in Kent with the previous owner, when it covered only 4,000 miles in 10 years. She is now used mostly for long weekend runs and for three track days in 2005 with the MGs-on-Track club. She handles very well indeed on the track for a 33 year old.

Sporting the "BEL" prefix, this car was registered in Bournemouth in June 1972 in Old English White as an MGBGT 1800cc model. The copies of the original log book and MOT certificates date back to registration which I acquired from the DVLA and show "Bella" was converted to 3500cc Rover V8 power in 1987. The registration plates switched to a private number for two years, then later reverting back to the original and current prefix.

The new engine is a high compression V8 with Holley carburetor and Offenhauser manifold, cooled by twin Kenlowe fans. In 2005 all new filters, blades, plugs, terminals, batteries, starter motor, alternator, leads and fluids were replaced as part of her major annual service by Enginuity of Chiswick, who have fastidiously maintained the car since Summer 2004. The bodywork has no rust whatsoever following replacement of all new front inner and outer wings, nearside rear wing, doors, sunroof, mirrors, locks, handles and an MG RV8 bonnet. Complimented by a bare metal respray to Mallard Green, all in 1997 by the generous previous owner. This was complimented by a full bare metal respray to the present Mallard Green with new leaf springs and shocks. She was completely Waxoyled underneath including all box sections. The chassis sits on the original Rostyle wheels when she was an 1800 BGT, maintaining an air of originality.

A new stainless steel exhaust main section with all new gaskets was fitted in 2005 as were new V8 brake discs and calipers, EBC red-stuff pads, synthetic brake fluid and 15w40 oil; thus allowing me to drive from Fulham to Goodwood, perform 40 quick laps and drive home again without any mishap, missed gear or brake fade. How many moderns can do that?

The interior sports firm, all "biscuit" reclining leather seats with adjustable head restraints, fixed belts and new black carpets throughout; a sunroof was added by the previous owner during the rebuild, along with a smart wooden Motalita steering wheel and gearknob. BEL 101 K is offered in excellent condition, meticulously maintained and serviced and will provide immediate thrills, reliability and fun for her new owners. An imminent international job transfer sadly forces the sale where the destination country does not allow such uninhibited classic car fun. Considerable service history and all bills back to 1991, including my own documented owner history back to 1972 are included. Most of the original toolkit is still present.
Offers in region of £6,250. (10.1.06)



Mallard Green 3121 in action at Goodwood.