UK vs United Kingdom — 1962 vs 1973
| MGB Roadster Mk I | MGB GT V8 Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 95 hp | 137 hp |
| Torque | 109 lb-ft | 185 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,798 cc | 3,528 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.2 sec | 7.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 104 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,028 lbs | 2,400 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,311 mm | 2,337 mm |
| Length | 3,886 mm | 3,886 mm |
| Units Produced | 513,272 | 2,591 |
| Original MSRP | $2,650 | $4,200 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 8/10 |
The 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1962 MG MGB Roadster Mk I counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The MG MGB lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1962 MG MGB Roadster Mk I with the 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard reveals how MG refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard holds a clear advantage in raw power with 137 hp compared to 95 hp, a 42-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG MGB uses a Inline-4 OHV B-Series displacing 1,798 cc, while the MG MGB GT V8 relies on a V8 OHV with 3,528 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard edges ahead at 7.7 seconds versus 11.2 seconds. The MG MGB carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 372 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,591 units built, the 1973 MG MGB GT V8 Standard is considerably scarcer than the MG MGB's 513,272 examples.