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MGB Roadster . A complex model of a simple car. . This 1979 MG B Roadster has been my main method of getting a tan for a few years now, and it deserves it's place alongside my Lego Citroens....
Ain't it pretty ? If it was an earlier 'chrome bumper' model it would be prettier, and twice the price. The big black rubber bumpers were added in 1974 to satisfy US market legislation, and for some strange reason I rather like them...
The twin exhaust outlets are not standard. It's an Oselli Racing system - dunno if it makes it go any faster but it sure sounds nice!
This model is 24/25 studs wide and is packed with features, but we'll start with the shape, made using a very big pile of very small plates.
Underneath the curves, there's a four cylinder engine made with my favourite big old square pistons, a 4 speed gearbox, working steering - from inside and 'hand of god' via the right exhaust', double wishbone front suspension, a proper leaf sprung live rear axle, everything opens and the doors have a spring-loaded latching mechanism operable from inside the car or out.
The black leather seats with red piping - I'm glad the first owner specified these; the standard covers look like deck chairs! Plenty of detail in here - right down to the indicator and wiper stalks.
That, quite simple really, door mechanism...
Under the bonnet, 1800cc of raw power. Or not, depending on whether you think 90 bhp is a lot... Fortunately, it's quite a light car so it feels brisk without threatening to tear your face off.
Rear suspension detail with cunning use of flexible pieces. Stiffness is about right although there's only about one brick of travel.
There's nothing in there. Move along.
The technic fans' money shot...
Nick's fun facts part 38: Those headlamp nacelles are a styling idea that first appeared on the Renault Caravelle. I'm a riot at parties...
Profile shot - my car has a slight nose-down stance (the front's been lowered, the back hasn't) and I've recreated that here.
Ready for the open road - or a traffic jam; I'll still get a tan!
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