While I sit on the long waiting list for a Hawk, I’m starting to think about the car I want to build and I’d be grateful for any comments or feedback on the following:
I want the car to be loved by all the family and my daughter will be involved with the build (she works in motorsport and has a 289 Mustang, so you can understand her interest). We already have the donor car; My wife’s original 1972 MGB roadster. Unfortunately, it has Rostyle wheels and we want spokes, but I’ve spoken to ‘Andy Jennings MGB’ who are local and can help me achieve the best use of components for an age-related registration.
My current thinking is to go for a fibreglass road car with Ford 302 and 5 speed. I want it to be subtle with no more bling than an original. Definitely more 60’s classic than resto-mod. Yes to side fins, no to bonnet scoop. Fair weather car only, so no hard top.
Colour wise, the consensus of the family is Princess Blue with black interior. That is a somewhat rarer than the Princess Blue/red combo but a couple of cars with the colour scheme I’ve been looking at for inspiration are the Lindauer Cobra (CSX2344) or the John Atkins Cobra (COB6058) which is currently being returned to its original body style and colour at AC Heritage. Both or these cars have excellent photographic records online.
Apart from the driving position, I’d be interested to learn more about the differences between a CSX and COB? The dials seem to be an obvious one. I may visit the John Haynes Cobra (COB6029) at his museum, as I’ve only seen COB cars in FIA configuration.
For the powertrain, what do people recommend? I’m not going for high-end performance but obviously want reliability. I’ll probably stick with a simple carb set up (single Autolite or twin Carter style). Maybe EFI and probably electronic ignition if it looks original. I’ve seen a few mentions of Real Steel engine builds and have used them in the past for Mustang parts. Also considering long block crate imports but clearly that is a major budget consideration. I don’t know much about the transmission options, but I guess it’s better to throw out originality and go for a five speed? I’d prefer outboard brakes at the rear, so probably an MGB diff.
Which of Gerry’s upgrades should I go for and do they have to wait until after the age-related plate has been issued?
One area I need to learn about is gaining IVA approval before finishing the car in its final configuration. Also, achieving that without throwing good money after bad (I’m mindful of the forum rules on this topic). I have a good source of advice though, as a family member works in that section of the DVSA.
In terms of budget, it’s gone up considerably since I first met Gerry a number of years ago. I’m currently thinking circa £45K, although recent posts about the cost of a decent paint job have me worried! For this amount, what areas should I prioritise and are there any opportunities to make savings? I’m hoping delivery of the kit and my retirement will be relatively close together, so that will help with the labour for everything I can do myself.
When should I start collecting parts, or ordering long lead items, bearing in mind delivery won’t be for at least 2 years and 10 months! What are the hardest parts to source if I happen to see them pop up in eBay or at an autojumble?
Of course, I could start stripping down the MG, but then I’ll have to live with the mess, and it’s quite tidy at the moment sitting under a car cover. I’d be more confident starting that once Hawk takes my deposit.
Anyway, it’s early days, but that’s where I’m at currently. Sorry for so many questions in one post. I'm sure some of the answers are already on the forum but this is a quick brain dump!
Cheers
David
