In 2002 I was 21 years old and bought a 71 MGB roadster as a weekend cruiser! Fun car!! My nextdoor neighbor liked it so much that he went and bought a Spitfire roadster. Then a co-worker of mine bought an Alfa Romeo Spider too!! They were all cool cars!! I sold mine after three years of driving it! My co worker buddy sold his a year after I did. My neighbor still owns his green Triumph!! All good stuff, fun cars!!!!!
I am 73 and all my rides are behind me,but what a ride it was. Bought myself a 1970 Spitfire for my 21 st birthday. Spent the next two years going everywhere I could up and down the west coast. It was a different world,it truly was. It was freer, or I was .The spitfire along with my 650 Bonneville,I flew.
No offense.... but that is a bizarre american affliction - sticking those awful monza exhausts on British sports cars. It sounds like a crappy dirt bike. I have an Austin Healey Sprite that has a proper english Maniflow racing exhaust... and the sound of that car is to die for.
The MGB was always a class bigger than the Spitfire, the MG Midget was the directly comparable car. Having said that, I have never owned nor wanted an MGB but have had two Spitfires (1x 1300, 1x 1500) and would buy another if the right opportunity arose. You need to watch the rear suspension though, all but the last Spitfires had a poor design where extreme rear camber change would occur as weight moved around when cornering which would lead to breakaway loss of grip and a nasty slide and probably an accident.
You're comparing the wrong cars, the Spitfire's true MG counterpart is the MG Midget, the MGB is a bit of a boat in comparison. The Spitfire has double wishbones up front and swing arm suspension at the back that will bite on the limit, no McPherson struts!
I had a MGB and loved it many years ago. My girlfriend had a Spitfire that I drove a lot as well. I’m 6 foot two and the B had a lot more legroom for me. I also had a Datsun SPL 311 roadster that was faster than both of them.
The real comparator is the Austin Healey Sprite / MG Midget. The Midget of course is the greatest car ever. When you drive one everyone smiles and waves at you. You can also expect about 30 mpg. When you drive one 50 mph feels like 80 mph. I wish I bought one 30 years ago. It is just that much fun to drive.
I had both, But mine were earlier models. The B was a 1969 in British Racing Greem, early air ejected Smog and had 98 HP (pre 1968 pre smog had 102 HP.. I pulled all the smog crap off replaced the Twin SU carb with Webber 45 DCOE, shaved the head .60 raising compression, and added headers. With 132 hp the B would move out. B have Unibody construction and live axle , the were also 2 inches lower than the later cars. The Spit is body on frame with independent rear suspension (early cars were a swing axle, 1970 and later yours had Stromberg maybe 62 HP.
First met my wife when I had a '69 MGB. When she could use the screwdriver to get the starter going, I knew she was the one! Now have a '74B for fun, but have always loved driving the Spitfires, TR4 and 6's
Spot on with your assessment! I do like the profile of the Spity. But the B is more practical regarding comfort. BTW I have a ‘79 MGB and love it. I’m 6’4” and fit very comfy in my B.
Dear 72dodge, I have a 1977 spitfire 1500 and my wheel is off by about 90 degrees and am wondering how to fix it. My steering wheel is also way to close to the washer/light stocks. I’m wondering if my steering wheel is missing a spacer. -Fly
Steering wheel adjustment is quite simple, they never left the factory like that. I have a 72 Spit MkIv 1300 with overdrive. I had the car for a while on the road and loved it to bits. It's a kind of car where you have to know how to drive, no power steering etc. It was a breeze on the motorways with the overdrive on, it made the car sound with a low growl. I quite fancied the MGB but I think the Michelotti styling wins it for me. I'm in the process of getting the old girl on the road again as it's 52 years old now and looking forward to driving it again. Good vid btw very enjoyable... Clive
Forgot the mention, I did have a 1972 "B" non-running and swapped in a 289 V8. NOW that was a beast! These days if I were to do it all again, I'd get a Miada.
Yes it has the same feel as the MGB be but with none of the rattles. If you are looking for a modern upgrade to either car I can recommend the Porche Boxster.
You live in the perfect location for cars like these. My first car was a 1972 Spitfire MKIV that I bought back in 1978. While I always liked both MG's and Triumphs, I much preferred the looks of the Triumph's (still do).
That's a very nice comparison of these 2 great ole roadsters. You have the ideal location and roads to enjoy these vintage cars. Just make sure that the rocket acceleration doesn't give you whiplash. :-)
I have a 79 Spitfire. Getting into it is like getting into a kayak. The driving experience is like a self-guided roller coaster. Which means I love it. I can't drive two blocks without somebody saying something about it. I put headers on, so it sounds even better.
Having owned a 1977 MGB, but not owning a gold mine or oil and gas company to finance another one in terms of upkeep, I'd have to go with a restorable Spitfire since many parts are interchangeable and having driven a 1972 extensively way back when, I found it, the Spitfire, to be an absolute joy to drive in the "twisty-turnies" of the Smokey Mountains....
I had a 69 spit as first car and 73 bgt as second, both great fun cars. I had to use the screwdriver starter as well:). Thanks for the great vid. Had a monza pipe on the spit, sounded great.
I owned a new Spitfire, my roommate who made more money had an MGB. I liked the Spit but the B was considerably superior. As said below the comparison should be made between the Spit and the Midget. I compared both when making my purchase. The winning point of the Spit over the Midget. I had legroom in the Spit and was cramped up in the Midget at 6'1" and skinny (then).
I had a 1972 Spitfire that I drove for 5 years in the milder months as this car was not made for Minnesota winters. I have a buddy still to this day that was 6 foot 7" and weighed 270 lbs who was with me a lot. Complained the whole time he was in that car but hopped right in when I went to pick him up. Really a fun car that brings back a lot of fun memories. Wish I still had it. I thought they were beautiful cars and I still thinkso
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 I can't take the extra spice added to the descriptions. "Rocket ship" "painted orange for extra power" 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 Huge fan of your content, dude. Keep it up.
I had a 63' Triumph Spitfire back when I was in my early 20's and it was always in the shop being fixed for one thing after another. Loved it when it was running well, but it broke the bank with repairs so I had to sell it.
They're both neat cars, and of course I have an MGB as well, but the Triumph was always referred to as a "sports car" where the MGB a "sophisticated" cruiser. The MGB is slower, but also a fair shake heavier then the Spitfire.
Just came across your video and I appreciate the simple and honest approach to it. Very enjoyable to watch. I had several sportscars but only spent some time in one British car, a '71 TR6. The two cars you reviewed are different in that the MGB is unibody and the Spitfire not, so that would account for the greater solidarity of construction. Also, the 77 MGB will take a performance hit compared to a 73. And those bumpers are just an unfortunate outcome of the US bumper requirements. What I like about the Spitfire is that awesome long hood which tilts forward with the fenders, and those great looking chrome latches on the side. It's probably more of a conversation piece too. Thanks for the great video.
They're both cars I grew up seeing a lot. I'd love either, but my choice would be the Spitfire MkIV. Both motors are quite tweakable, by the way: twin carbs, headers, free flowing exhausts (like on the Spitfire ;) ) etc..... The Spitfire also has the easier engine accessibility with the whole front coming off. :)
Ill try and concentrate on both Cars. Both those cars are worth a good dollar in today's market however the longer you can hold on to them the more they will be worth. Dont be fooled by anyone telling you there not worth that much. Im into cars like you, if you painted that car in RED acrylic ? Let it dry out weeks then you wet n dry it before using a foam buff and compound beware not to burn paint especially edges, how) so practice b4 doing your cars, try 900 then 1000 grit up to 1200 wet n dry with soap and a soft block You amaze me with your many talents needless to say to much, you keep trying no matter what, and that makes me want to keep viewing your jobs. You could well go along way on the tube, your talent and looks lol and personality you can't go wrong. Take care.
I am nearly certain that MGBs from that time did not come with two tone interiors; where the seats are one color & the door panels are another. Especially mis-matched seat vs headrests, like on this car. I was around a ton of MGBs back then. My 78 had tan seats and door cards & black carpets.
I have had several of both of these cars. MGB is way better and more dependable car. Plus the parts are easier and less expensive to buy on the MGB. Once the 1800 cc MGB is tuned up properly it will blow the doors off a 1500cc Spitfire.
@@melindamanthey2757 Thank you! I must confess that I am a MGB hoarder. As of Jan 2020 I have a fully restored 68 (red), 71(Old English white), 79 (Inca gold), 79 Limited Edition (Black) MGBs. I have my faithful 80 (Black)that needs to be restored again after 34 years. I also have recently acquired a MGC GT (British Racing green) that I have just started the restoration on.
The engine bearings in the Spitfire usually failed 30,000 miles or so on the 1500; I will stick with my 1980 MGB. Properly sorted and minus the emissions of the time, and some suspension mods, it’s quite good
Great video!! Sorta close to y’all here in NH! I’d go with the MG myself! Had some fun with one back in the day! A bit more refined in my opinion. Although.. glad you keep the tools close! You’ll need them!
This takes me back to my youth. Friends in high school had 2 Spitfires, a TR4A IRS, and a TR3. I rode in and drove everything except the TR3. One of the Spitfires I drove back from Myrtle Beach to Ohio and my buddy and I lived in that car for 3 days. I was more interested in the TR6 and the wedge (TR7). Never pulled the trigger on any but remember how much I enjoyed driving the Spitfires. Didn’t really care for the MG Midget. It struck me as cheap and unreliable, since I saw many come into my brother’s shop back in the day. But did like the style of the MGA and Austin Healey 3000.
Very different style video for you, Rural Vermonter, and it's quite good. For me, the best car is a Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye. I'd love to see you tearing up the back roads of our fair state in one of these (just watch out for the Sanderista enviro nazis, haha)!
I’ve driven both, and own a 76 spit. Lots of fun, but keep it off the interstate, lol ! I choose the triumph any day. Remember, the spitfire was designed by an Italian.
The biggest problem the MGB faced were the performance limitations that were put in place because of America's emissions controls. You guys got that awful single stromberg carb and a much milder camshaft, which strangled the engine. European models always had the twin SU carbs, and put out 94hp. Still a lovely car though, and great video.
Dude you are totally right, I replaced Webber carb, tried to find vacuum leak endlessly , and when switched to electronic points , all problems cleared . What a relief
Baxter is a champ! Of that era the Triumph TR6 combines the fun of the Spitfire with more comfort. But during the period the most enjoyable roadster is the Alfa Romeo Spider. The Mercedes SL of that era had barcaloungers to sit in that ruined the fun.
I didn't know the late MGBs were that slow. My 1966 has 95 Hp. Your late MGB is raised, heavier and less powerful than the earlier models with chrome bumpers.
Those are both ancient engine designs, debuting in the early 1950's. To put it in context, that same "B" engine in the MG was also used in the Nash Metropolitan. Not that I would recommend it on one this old, but on either of those cars you had to use all the space on the tach to get power out of them. There were some MG coupes that had the Buick-derived Rover V8 in them. Still underpowered for the displacement but in that light car it would 60 mph in about 8 seconds.
What! This MGB has a 5 Main bearing 1800 cc engine, the Metropolitan was a 1500 3 main bearing engine. The 1800 engine was developed from the 1500 but is not the same engine really. Carburetors are.totally different as are intakes and exhaust also.
More like late 1930's in both cases. Just bored and stroked and revised over the years. There were also 6-cylinder MGCs, but the V8 version was MUCH better.
I assume you like hemis? Judging by your meme. I will point out the 1800 engine of 1962 had a kidney shaped, i.e. hemispherical combustion chamber. The power output was 95 bhp and displacement was 110 C. I. This was very close to the era’s performance standard of 1 hp per cubic inch. That could be reached by further stages of tuning. American v-8 engines of the era usuallly produced a half horsepower per cubic inch. Needless to say engineers at Mercedes, MG, Jaguar, Alfa, Porsche etc all quietly snickered at Mustangs, Corvettes, and etc. for their sloppy handling dreadful brakes, and hopelessly massive but inefficient engines. Is it any wonder any European maker who bought American v-8’s promptly tuned them for more power.
Both cars are a little on the rough side and probably need a front end alignment. No to the Macpherson strut suspension. Both cars use dual wishbone suspension and the Spitty has rear independent suspension
The European spec MkIV was 67hp - apparently same power output as the Mk3 but they changed to DIN standard measurement of BHP, which came out lower than whatever method used pre-1970. Later MkIV's (and maybe all the US cars?) had a slightly less spicy camshaft as well.
I owned both a MGB and a Triumph Herald convertible (same engine and chassis as the Spitfire) in the 60's and 70's. The MGB was a far better built car, more refined. In England we used to refer to the Spitfire as the Sh*tfire.
@@melindamanthey2757 I was talking about in the marketplace, not in racing. The Le man Spitfires bore little relation to the road going versions. The race cars were of course very different beasts, however, it was the midget and the Spitfire that were in the same class in 1965, where the triumph beat the MG. So, in all respects, the Spitfire competed against the midget, with which it shared a similar engine size, not the MGB with its 1.8
Hi, The steering wheel not being centered can easily be fixed through the tie rod adjustment. That's what an alignment shop would do. You can also remove and reinstall the steering wheel yourself. ruclips.net/video/lwf2BDC5DMo/видео.html On your 1977 MGB you can pry up the MG plastic cover in the center of the steering wheel to get to the steering wheel nut. If you remove, adjust and reinstall the steering wheel, you should test drive it to check it out. The MGB steering wheel fits onto a spline fitting, meaning there's no keyway. Ideally, the best way, by an alignment shop, is to make sure you've got the same number of exposed adjusting threads on the left side and right side of the tie rod adjustment. Then set the alignment. Then center the steering wheel. If it's way off, then remove and recenter. If it's just a little off center, use the adjustment nuts to correct. If you're not sure you can do this, take it to an alignment shop. It might not be such a bad idea to get the front end aligned anyway. For that steering wheel to be so much out of adjustment, it's probably been fiddled with by someone who didn't have a clue as to what they needed to do. Here's the correct way to lower the convertible top: ruclips.net/video/I3Zfdj9W2Y4/видео.html The 1973 MGB would have had dual carburetors, and no heavy rubber bumpers and would have had more horsepower, especially if the all smog equipment had been disconnected and removed. Also, the brown interior color is called, Autumn Leaf. Good luck, Tom
When new the Spitfire was priced against the MG MIDGET, the MGB was priced closer to the 6 cyl Triumph GT6. That said, your are also comparing two cars that are 40-50 years old and NOT in stock configuration (at least with regards to the muffler)
In 2002 I was 21 years old and bought a 71 MGB roadster as a weekend cruiser! Fun car!! My nextdoor neighbor liked it so much that he went and bought a Spitfire roadster. Then a co-worker of mine bought an Alfa Romeo Spider too!! They were all cool cars!! I sold mine after three years of driving it! My co worker buddy sold his a year after I did. My neighbor still owns his green Triumph!! All good stuff, fun cars!!!!!
I am 73 and all my rides are behind me,but what a ride it was. Bought myself a 1970 Spitfire for my 21 st birthday. Spent the next two years going everywhere I could up and down the west coast. It was a different world,it truly was. It was freer, or I was .The spitfire along with my 650 Bonneville,I flew.
The Spitfire doesn't need a radio; it's got that exhaust.
No offense.... but that is a bizarre american affliction - sticking those awful monza exhausts on British sports cars. It sounds like a crappy dirt bike. I have an Austin Healey Sprite that has a proper english Maniflow racing exhaust... and the sound of that car is to die for.
@@56squadron proper English exhaust 😱😱😱😱,,,,
The MGB was always a class bigger than the Spitfire, the MG Midget was the directly comparable car. Having said that, I have never owned nor wanted an MGB but have had two Spitfires (1x 1300, 1x 1500) and would buy another if the right opportunity arose. You need to watch the rear suspension though, all but the last Spitfires had a poor design where extreme rear camber change would occur as weight moved around when cornering which would lead to breakaway loss of grip and a nasty slide and probably an accident.
I have a '67 MGB GT and a '68 Spitfire, they both have there quirks, but I love them both in there own ways
Which would you say is the most fun to drive?
Depends what you want from a car. The spitfire is more of a go kart, while the MGB is more refined
The later ‘73 Spitfire is ugly compared to the 60’s.
You're comparing the wrong cars, the Spitfire's true MG counterpart is the MG Midget, the MGB is a bit of a boat in comparison. The Spitfire has double wishbones up front and swing arm suspension at the back that will bite on the limit, no McPherson struts!
I had a MGB and loved it many years ago. My girlfriend had a Spitfire that I drove a lot as well. I’m 6 foot two and the B had a lot more legroom for me. I also had a Datsun SPL 311 roadster that was faster than both of them.
The real comparator is the Austin Healey Sprite / MG Midget.
The Midget of course is the greatest
car ever. When you drive one everyone smiles and waves at you. You can also expect about 30 mpg. When you drive one 50 mph feels like 80 mph.
I wish I bought one 30 years ago. It is just that much fun to drive.
I'm buying a 74 spitfire 1500 tomorrow, crazy that yall only put out this yesterday. First thing showing up when you type in triumph spitfire
Sweet
Both British cars are awesome!
I had both, But mine were earlier models.
The B was a 1969 in British Racing Greem, early air ejected Smog and had 98 HP (pre 1968 pre smog had 102 HP.. I pulled all the smog crap off replaced the Twin SU carb with Webber 45 DCOE, shaved the head .60 raising compression, and added headers. With 132 hp the B would move out. B have Unibody construction and live axle , the were also 2 inches lower than the later cars.
The Spit is body on frame with independent rear suspension (early cars were a swing axle, 1970 and later
yours had
Stromberg maybe 62 HP.
First met my wife when I had a '69 MGB. When she could use the screwdriver to get the starter going, I knew she was the one! Now have a '74B for fun, but have always loved driving the Spitfires, TR4 and 6's
Spot on with your assessment! I do like the profile of the Spity. But the B is more practical regarding comfort. BTW I have a ‘79 MGB and love it. I’m 6’4” and fit very comfy in my B.
I was going to buy an MG Midget and wound up with a Triumph Spitfire and I couldn't be happier about that.
lol, the steering wheel not being centered is not a British thing... I think you were joking, I hope so... that's easily fixable.
Dear 72dodge, I have a 1977 spitfire 1500 and my wheel is off by about 90 degrees and am wondering how to fix it. My steering wheel is also way to close to the washer/light stocks. I’m wondering if my steering wheel is missing a spacer.
-Fly
@@flyup1232 Adjust your drag link bar
@@flyup1232 get your car aligned lol
Yes, wheel alignment is simply poor maintenance. The steering needs realignment , someone messed with it.
Get a wheel alignment. I did alignments for many years. If a car came in with the steering wheel off center, usually something was bent.
Spitfire for me, mgb is OK but they aren't as pretty and small chassis triumphs imo are more fun to drive and easier to work on.
Steering wheel adjustment is quite simple, they never left the factory like that. I have a 72 Spit MkIv 1300 with overdrive. I had the car for a while on the road and loved it to bits. It's a kind of car where you have to know how to drive, no power steering etc. It was a breeze on the motorways with the overdrive on, it made the car sound with a low growl. I quite fancied the MGB but I think the Michelotti styling wins it for me. I'm in the process of getting the old girl on the road again as it's 52 years old now and looking forward to driving it again. Good vid btw very enjoyable... Clive
Forgot the mention, I did have a 1972 "B" non-running and swapped in a 289 V8. NOW that was a beast!
These days if I were to do it all again, I'd get a Miada.
Yes it has the same feel as the MGB be but with none of the rattles. If you are looking for a modern upgrade to either car I can recommend the Porche Boxster.
You live in the perfect location for cars like these. My first car was a 1972 Spitfire MKIV that I bought back in 1978. While I always liked both MG's and Triumphs, I much preferred the looks of the Triumph's (still do).
I just swaped a 92' corvette for a 74' spitfire...... SUCKER!!!! ..... I'M lovin it!!!
That's a very nice comparison of these 2 great ole roadsters. You have the ideal location and roads to enjoy these vintage cars. Just make sure that the rocket acceleration doesn't give you whiplash. :-)
I have a 79 Spitfire. Getting into it is like getting into a kayak. The driving experience is like a self-guided roller coaster. Which means I love it. I can't drive two blocks without somebody saying something about it. I put headers on, so it sounds even better.
Having owned a 1977 MGB, but not owning a gold mine or oil and gas company to finance another one in terms of upkeep, I'd have to go with a restorable Spitfire since many parts are interchangeable and having driven a 1972 extensively way back when, I found it, the Spitfire, to be an absolute joy to drive in the "twisty-turnies" of the Smokey Mountains....
I owned both cars at the same time. Totally agree Spitfire was much cheaper to maintain and more fun to drive.
Wow very nice dashboard! Your friend must be very skilled!
Haha amazing I found this. The two cars I'm weighing up buying!
I had a 69 spit as first car and 73 bgt as second, both great fun cars. I had to use the screwdriver starter as well:). Thanks for the great vid. Had a monza pipe on the spit, sounded great.
I owned a new Spitfire, my roommate who made more money had an MGB. I liked the Spit but the B was considerably superior. As said below the comparison should be made between the Spit and the Midget. I compared both when making my purchase. The winning point of the Spit over the Midget. I had legroom in the Spit and was cramped up in the Midget at 6'1" and skinny (then).
Fun cars. Excellent review. Dogs really do know best. Thanks for the video.
I had a 1972 Spitfire that I drove for 5 years in the milder months as this car was not made for Minnesota winters. I have a buddy still to this day that was 6 foot 7" and weighed 270 lbs who was with me a lot. Complained the whole time he was in that car but hopped right in when I went to pick him up. Really a fun car that brings back a lot of fun memories. Wish I still had it. I thought they were beautiful cars and I still thinkso
Spitfire, hey you had a lab report should have had a cat scan as well, lol
Orange for hp! Love it. Also, I grew up with my dad ridiculing the Spitfire so I'm biased haha
Both of these are great cars
Great review! Exactly what i was looking for
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
I can't take the extra spice added to the descriptions. "Rocket ship" "painted orange for extra power"
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Huge fan of your content, dude. Keep it up.
Haha thanks
I had a 63' Triumph Spitfire back when I was in my early 20's and it was always in the shop being fixed for one thing after another. Loved it when it was running well, but it broke the bank with repairs so I had to sell it.
My 1975 MGB produces around 95 bhp. Plus, have twin SU carbs and deleting the resonator massively helped with the pep and sound.
They're both neat cars, and of course I have an MGB as well, but the Triumph was always referred to as a "sports car" where the MGB a "sophisticated" cruiser. The MGB is slower, but also a fair shake heavier then the Spitfire.
I'll be happy to go on a drive my 64 B with/ against this Spitfire in the video. Let's call it 20 miles or more, he can go first.
Just came across your video and I appreciate the simple and honest approach to it. Very enjoyable to watch. I had several sportscars but only spent some time in one British car, a '71 TR6. The two cars you reviewed are different in that the MGB is unibody and the Spitfire not, so that would account for the greater solidarity of construction. Also, the 77 MGB will take a performance hit compared to a 73. And those bumpers are just an unfortunate outcome of the US bumper requirements. What I like about the Spitfire is that awesome long hood which tilts forward with the fenders, and those great looking chrome latches on the side. It's probably more of a conversation piece too. Thanks for the great video.
I prefer the MGB.. MORE my style.. We have a really cool British Car show every year here in the Square.. Been so wanting to buy one.. maybe someday .
Your cool! Love the video and your review style. Baxter made the right choice. Subscribed! X
Im here because I want to but a triumph as my second car in the summer
The Triumph sounds a lot like an airplane! (and I'm an MGB guy).
Yeah its pretty cool sounding
They're both cars I grew up seeing a lot. I'd love either, but my choice would be the Spitfire MkIV. Both motors are quite tweakable, by the way: twin carbs, headers, free flowing exhausts (like on the Spitfire ;) ) etc..... The Spitfire also has the easier engine accessibility with the whole front coming off. :)
Ill try and concentrate on both Cars.
Both those cars are worth a good dollar in today's market however the longer you can hold on to them the more they will be worth.
Dont be fooled by anyone telling you there not worth that much.
Im into cars like you, if you painted that car in RED acrylic ? Let it dry out weeks then you wet n dry it before using a foam buff and compound beware not to burn paint especially edges, how) so practice b4 doing your cars, try 900 then 1000 grit up to 1200 wet n dry with soap and a soft block
You amaze me with your many talents needless to say to much, you keep trying no matter what, and that makes me want to keep viewing your jobs. You could well go along way on the tube, your talent and looks lol and personality you can't go wrong.
Take care.
Thanks! Yes the red car still needs wet sanding and another layer of paint, thanks for the tips.
@@ARuralVermonterQqjmcb182 let me know if you should need further advice on the paintwork as that's in my field.
I have a 77 spitfire still being restored and is to me just the car for me I love the car
Hi there fellow 802 brother. Nice video.
Im from Ludlow
I am nearly certain that MGBs from that time did not come with two tone interiors; where the seats are one color & the door panels are another. Especially mis-matched seat vs headrests, like on this car. I was around a ton of MGBs back then. My 78 had tan seats and door cards & black carpets.
I have had several of both of these cars. MGB is way better and more dependable car. Plus the parts are easier and less expensive to buy on the MGB. Once the 1800 cc MGB is tuned up properly it will blow the doors off a 1500cc Spitfire.
Completely factual. The Spitfire was a beer can in construction compared to the B. And true, not match for a B in power, comfort or handling.
@@melindamanthey2757 Thank you! I must confess that I am a MGB hoarder. As of Jan 2020 I have a fully restored 68 (red), 71(Old English white), 79 (Inca gold), 79 Limited Edition (Black) MGBs. I have my faithful 80 (Black)that needs to be restored again after 34 years. I also have recently acquired a MGC GT (British Racing green) that I have just started the restoration on.
The engine bearings in the Spitfire usually failed 30,000 miles or so on the 1500; I will stick with my 1980 MGB. Properly sorted and minus the emissions of the time, and some suspension mods, it’s quite good
Great video!! Sorta close to y’all here in NH! I’d go with the MG myself! Had some fun with one back in the day! A bit more refined in my opinion. Although.. glad you keep the tools close! You’ll need them!
Thanks! The mg is a great car.
More BS
On that first drive by, it looked like you wanted to keep on motoring down the road. Nice day to do it. Nice fun cars.
I sure did!
This takes me back to my youth. Friends in high school had 2 Spitfires, a TR4A IRS, and a TR3. I rode in and drove everything except the TR3. One of the Spitfires I drove back from Myrtle Beach to Ohio and my buddy and I lived in that car for 3 days. I was more interested in the TR6 and the wedge (TR7). Never pulled the trigger on any but remember how much I enjoyed driving the Spitfires. Didn’t really care for the MG Midget. It struck me as cheap and unreliable, since I saw many come into my brother’s shop back in the day. But did like the style of the MGA and Austin Healey 3000.
Who painted the Spitfire?
Did you take a trailer to tow the one that sprung the first coolant leak???
Yes
Both have their merits. Though I am a Triumph guy. I think they raised the ride height on later MG to meet U.S. regs and spoilt it's handling.
Very different style video for you, Rural Vermonter, and it's quite good. For me, the best car is a Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye. I'd love to see you tearing up the back roads of our fair state in one of these (just watch out for the Sanderista enviro nazis, haha)!
Thanks! I cant afford a hellcat yet :)
Nothing like doing a car comparison with 2 cars that have issues.
Spitfire sounds better, MG looks better! Good stuff!
Very nice autos,beautiful
BEAUTIFUL country!
Sure is!
Great video, well done! Thanks
I’ve driven both, and own a 76 spit. Lots of fun, but keep it off the interstate, lol ! I choose the triumph any day. Remember, the spitfire was designed by an Italian.
So was the body of the MGB.
@@melindamanthey2757 true, but the triumph shows it with its sporty lines. The MGB looks like their family car designs.
Nice diplomatic ending. It's actually the MGB that is the more reliable and fun car to drive.
I had a 67 Spitfire MK4. Still wish I had it.
The earlier mg’s look awesome though
The biggest problem the MGB faced were the performance limitations that were put in place because of America's emissions controls. You guys got that awful single stromberg carb and a much milder camshaft, which strangled the engine. European models always had the twin SU carbs, and put out 94hp. Still a lovely car though, and great video.
Always check the distributer for cam side play and auto advance of timing on the spitfires, makes them bog down and you lose the top end.
Dude you are totally right, I replaced Webber carb, tried to find vacuum leak endlessly , and when switched to electronic points , all problems cleared . What a relief
Sorry, electronic distributor, I meant , no points
2:56 oh that TRACTOR!!! Even he stopped to take a note!
The Spitfire was in competition with the Mg Midget not Mgb.
Baxter is a champ!
Of that era the Triumph TR6 combines the fun of the Spitfire with more comfort. But during the period the most enjoyable roadster is the Alfa Romeo Spider. The Mercedes SL of that era had barcaloungers to sit in that ruined the fun.
What a shame you didn't have a 73 MGB as well, vastly superior to the Americanized 77.
I didn't know the late MGBs were that slow. My 1966 has 95 Hp. Your late MGB is raised, heavier and less powerful than the earlier models with chrome bumpers.
Both great old cars
Those are both ancient engine designs, debuting in the early 1950's. To put it in context, that same "B" engine in the MG was also used in the Nash Metropolitan. Not that I would recommend it on one this old, but on either of those cars you had to use all the space on the tach to get power out of them. There were some MG coupes that had the Buick-derived Rover V8 in them. Still underpowered for the displacement but in that light car it would 60 mph in about 8 seconds.
Would be cool to have a v8 mg! I didnt know the engine was that old. I wont be redlining these engines for sure lol
The B engine was the same as the 1500 MGA engine minus the tach drive.
What! This MGB has a 5 Main bearing 1800 cc engine, the Metropolitan was a 1500 3 main bearing engine. The 1800 engine was developed from the 1500 but is not the same engine really. Carburetors are.totally different as are intakes and exhaust also.
More like late 1930's in both cases. Just bored and stroked and revised over the years. There were also 6-cylinder MGCs, but the V8 version was MUCH better.
I assume you like hemis? Judging by your meme. I will point out the 1800 engine of 1962 had a kidney shaped, i.e. hemispherical combustion chamber. The power output was 95 bhp and displacement was 110 C. I. This was very close to the era’s performance standard of 1 hp per cubic inch. That could be reached by further stages of tuning. American v-8 engines of the era usuallly produced a half horsepower per cubic inch. Needless to say engineers at Mercedes, MG, Jaguar, Alfa, Porsche etc all quietly snickered at Mustangs, Corvettes, and etc. for their sloppy handling dreadful brakes, and hopelessly massive but inefficient engines. Is it any wonder any European maker who bought American v-8’s promptly tuned them for more power.
Cool video
Very cool and troublesome cars...
GREAT VIDEO.....
Both cars are a little on the rough side and probably need a front end alignment. No to the Macpherson strut suspension. Both cars use dual wishbone suspension and the Spitty has rear independent suspension
Hi what's up the triumph is a 1.3 rigth?
my older brother drove a 1973 MGB GT from CA to Rhode island back in the eighties had no prob with it
I have had MGB going on thirty years the mg is the better built car Wich not saying much LoL
Only 63 hp? Did they de-tune the 75 hp of the Spitfire Mk III for the Mk IV? Or is it a US only thing?
The European spec MkIV was 67hp - apparently same power output as the Mk3 but they changed to DIN standard measurement of BHP, which came out lower than whatever method used pre-1970. Later MkIV's (and maybe all the US cars?) had a slightly less spicy camshaft as well.
Mgb is the one I'd go for
I have a 1500 spitfire also a MGB roadster sound can depend on what type of exhaust system, the spitfire is rather like driving a gokart.
For me it’s the spitfire. It has the style and swagger. The mg looks good overall, and is a bit more elegant looking. It also a bigger more roomy car.
I owned both a MGB and a Triumph Herald convertible (same engine and chassis as the Spitfire) in the 60's and 70's. The MGB was a far better built car, more refined. In England we used to refer to the Spitfire as the Sh*tfire.
You shouldent be buzzing your local Church like that..😀😀
Anyone know what exhaust is on that spitfire?
The Spitfire and the MGB were never really competitors. The Sppitfire was up against the midget while the MGB was up against the TRs
They won LeMans beating Triumph.
@@melindamanthey2757 I was talking about in the marketplace, not in racing. The Le man Spitfires bore little relation to the road going versions. The race cars were of course very different beasts, however, it was the midget and the Spitfire that were in the same class in 1965, where the triumph beat the MG. So, in all respects, the Spitfire competed against the midget, with which it shared a similar engine size, not the MGB with its 1.8
Yep at the end both the Midget and Spitfire had the Triumph 1500cc engine. Not a robust engine at all.
Hi,
The steering wheel not being centered can easily be fixed through the tie rod adjustment. That's what an alignment shop would do.
You can also remove and reinstall the steering wheel yourself. ruclips.net/video/lwf2BDC5DMo/видео.html On your 1977 MGB you can pry up the MG plastic cover in the center of the steering wheel to get to the steering wheel nut.
If you remove, adjust and reinstall the steering wheel, you should test drive it to check it out. The MGB steering wheel fits onto a spline fitting, meaning there's no keyway.
Ideally, the best way, by an alignment shop, is to make sure you've got the same number of exposed adjusting threads on the left side and right side of the tie rod adjustment. Then set the alignment. Then center the steering wheel. If it's way off, then remove and recenter. If it's just a little off center, use the adjustment nuts to correct.
If you're not sure you can do this, take it to an alignment shop. It might not be such a bad idea to get the front end aligned anyway. For that steering wheel to be so much out of adjustment, it's probably been fiddled with by someone who didn't have a clue as to what they needed to do.
Here's the correct way to lower the convertible top: ruclips.net/video/I3Zfdj9W2Y4/видео.html
The 1973 MGB would have had dual carburetors, and no heavy rubber bumpers and would have had more horsepower, especially if the all smog equipment had been disconnected and removed.
Also, the brown interior color is called, Autumn Leaf.
Good luck, Tom
Thanks for the info!
I think this shoild be done with same year models
A proper comparison would be a MG Midget vs Spitfile or maybe a MBG vs TR7. Also you should compare both as rubber bumpers or both chrome.
Look out for John Deer he was tokin on some mean green!
When new the Spitfire was priced against the MG MIDGET, the MGB was priced closer to the 6 cyl Triumph GT6.
That said, your are also comparing two cars that are 40-50 years old and NOT in stock configuration (at least with regards to the muffler)
Trunk? Don't you mean boot? British cars don't have trunks!
And The Winner Is! Spitfire!!! 100% Hip hip hurray"
I like them both it would be a hard choice for me
The Spitfire sounds better but I just like everything about the MGB better
If it was a wet day...neither would start 😂
Lol
Thankyou... 👍
Hahahahaha Baxter dogs name and that’s my last name lol 😂
Lucas Electric fail on triumph?