1969 MGC GT Autumn Drive

In 2005 I saved this 1969 MGC-GT from the crusher. This video shows a few photographs before and after the complete rotisserie restoration started in 2006 and completed in 2009 by Gassman Automotive, Waynesboro, VA. Because the car was a “basket case“ I took liberties in the restoration to make it mine. The most obvious change was to dump the ugly “Abington Pillow“ dash that occurred in the MGB and MGC from 1968 to 1971 due to regulations in the USA and make the car into what the rest of the world received. The MGC is totally different from the MGB in that it is much more powerful, more relaxed, and the ride is more compliant. However, due to the 620 pound 6-cylinder, 3-liter engine (MGB engine was and 200 pounds lighter) it is prone to understeer (plowing) when taking a corner aggressively (especially downhill), whereas the MGB will oversteer (breaking the rear end loose). There were only around 4,000 MGC-GT cars produced over 18 months beginning in 1968 into 1969. When it was introduced the intention of the company was to offer a long legged, powerful, touring car in the grand touring (GT) European tradition. However, the initial introduction by the press was badly botched with under inflated tires and the expectation it would handle like the famous MGB. The reality was that the 60/40 weight distribution was no different than most automobiles of the period and the press proclaimed the car had lost that “MG Magic“ which was 50/50 front to rear weight distribution giving neutral and forgiving handling. With the passing of time, the MGC is appreciated for what it was originally intended to be, and enthusiast are rediscovering and appreciating the car. If you own one, your car will most likely be the only one at a show among the throng of MGBs. The bulk of the video takes the viewer on a ride in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, specifically in southern Augusta and northern Rockbridge Counties in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. The video demonstrates the relaxed and civilized nature of the MGC-GT especially with the electric over drive in 3rd and 4th gears.