The GT weighed 115kg more than the roadster, which blunted its acceleration, but the streamlined shape did allow the GT to reach a slightly higher top speed than the convertible (104mph against 102mph) and return slightly better average fuel consumption. The balanced weight distribution that was key to any MG’s handling prowess was also retained – while the roadster was very slightly nose heavy, the GT carried a very slim majority of its one-up weight at the rear. The only other difference was that the GT came as standard with a heater, which the roadster would not gain as standard equipment until 1969.
The MGB GT was the perfect package – it was innately handsome with perfect proportions and fine lines. It had sufficient and fully accessible performance to be worthy of the MG badge and still be a sports car. It had fine steering, handling and road holding. It had accurate, weighty steering and a wonderfully slick short throw gearchange. It had a tough, simple, gutsy and reliable engine that could take a lot of tuning work. And yet it also had a cabin worthy of a mid-size saloon with comfortable accommodation for two six-foot adults. The rear bench provided sufficient space for two children or one tolerant adult passenger, but could also fold flat to provide a large, low boot floor accessed through that big lifting tailgate.
The addition of a tin-top roof kept the British weather at bay and allowed long periods of high-speed, long-distance cruising when the buffeting and whistling of a ‘B with the hood up or down would be wearing. It was a unique proposition in 1965 and, despite challenges from the Ford Capri, the Reliant Scimitar and the Volvo P1800ES, remained unmatched for its breadth of capabilities right to the end of production in 1980.