The 1974 MG was the last year of production for the first generation of the MGB, which was introduced in 1962. The MGB was a popular British sports car known for its stylish design, affordable price, and fun-to-drive handling.
The 1974 MGB was available in two body styles: roadster and GT. The roadster was a two-seat convertible, while the GT was a two-plus-two coupe with a hatchback trunk. Both body styles were powered by a 1.8L inline-four engine, but a 3.5L V8 engine was also available as an option.
All 1974 MGBs came standard with a four-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The V8-powered MGB GT was also available with an optional three-speed automatic transmission.
The 1974 MGB was not a particularly fuel-efficient car, especially the V8 model. However, it was still a relatively affordable car to buy and maintain.
Engine:
- Type: 1.8L inline-four or 3.5L V8
- Bore: 83.0 mm (3.27 in)
- Stroke: 88.9 mm (3.5 in)
- Compression ratio: 8.8:1 (four-cylinder), 8.3:1 (V8)
- Horsepower: 65 hp (48 kW) at 6000 rpm (four-cylinder), 105 hp (78 kW) at 5500 rpm (V8)
- Torque: 72 lb⋅ft (98 N⋅m) at 3000 rpm (four-cylinder), 123 lb⋅ft (167 N⋅m) at 3500 rpm (V8)
Transmission:
- Type: 4-speed manual
Drivetrain:
- Type: Rear-wheel drive
Chassis:
- Suspension: Front: Independent MacPherson struts with coil springs and anti-roll bar; Rear: Live axle with leaf springs
- Brakes: Front: Disc; Rear: Drum
Dimensions:
- Wheelbase: 7 ft 7 in (231.1 cm)
- Length: 12 ft 9.2 in (388.6 cm)
- Width: 4 ft 11.9 in (121.9 cm)
- Height: 4 ft 1.4 in (125.4 cm)
- Ground clearance: 4.5 in (11.4 cm)
- Turning circle: 32 ft (9.75 m)
Performance:
- 0-60 mph: 12.2 seconds (four-cylinder), 10.9 seconds (V8)
- Top speed: 103 mph (four-cylinder), 114 mph (V8)
Fuel economy:
- City: 22 mpg (four-cylinder)
- Highway: 34 mpg (four-cylinder)
- City: 15 mpg (V8)
- Highway: 27 mpg (V8)
Weight:
- Curb weight: 2303 lb (1044 kg)