What's the 'right' price to pay for an MGB roadster?

[Igg]

Hi all,

I'm looking to buy an MGB roadster, (preferable one where I don't pay any roadtax, so I guess that's pre 1970 and chrome bumper model) as a birthday present for my girlfiend.

Thing is, the prices asked for this type of car seem to vary a lot, and so I was wondering what price do you think would get me a nice, straight car that doesn't need any work done on it and will prove reliable as a second car ie:- will probably be used when it's sunny and majority will be local 'shopping' trips with a once a year run to Le Mans etc.

I'd rather spend a bit more to get something really straight and nice to drive etc. but I having looked at adverts, I'm not sure what 'a bit more' would equal.

What would you say would be a reasonable amount to spend given the criteria above?
Thanks
Igg

[wadgebeast]

You want a post 1965 (5 bearing engine instead of 3) pre 1973 car if you want it tax free. Bear in mind that these cars carry a premium of about a grand. If you're only going to keep it for a few years, buy a 74 or early 75 chrome bumper one - it'll take 5 or 6 years of annual taxation to overcome the premium of a pre 73 car.

Rust is the big thing, especially in the sills / castle sections / floorpans / inner wings. So you'll be looking at something recently restored or re-bodyshelled. Overall, you'll see very tidy and usuable cars from about £4000 upwards, but realistically about £5000. There'll be some very good cars with good history and photographic restoration, driven in the dry, off road in winter for £5k upwards.

[Igg]

Thanks for that - I expect we'll be keeping it for ever (if it's a good one), and I prefer look of chrome bumper models anyway -hadn't realised cars were tax free up until 1973 though, so that's good news - thanks.

Igg