First drive of the LS1-powered MGB GT!

A big day! The MG came out of the garage for the first time in nearly two years. This is just a "let's make sure it all works" drive. The power steering pump was a bit low on fluid, thus the moaning noise. The brakes were a bit soft but worked - you can see me checking them as I bring the car out of the garage the first time.
And yes, there was a good burnout that didn't get caught on camera.
The car is a 1972 MGB GT that's been fitted with the engine and transmission from a 1998 Camaro Z28. It's packing somewhere between 350 and 400 hp, has a 6-speed T-56 transmission and a Positraction rear. The front suspension runs on a custom frame and is modeled after a Miata, the rear is a custom three-link setup. At the moment, the car weighs less than 2000 lbs.
Please note that while the radiator looks low, it actually fit behind the MG Special Tuning airdam that is not fitted. It's since been replaced with a more efficient radiator that isn't quite as deep, mostly for better cooling.
For more information: http://www.slowcarfast.com

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• LS1
• V8
• MG

[nsaneon]

Great job! Have you had any issues with the radiator??

[TargaMiata]

@nsaneon While that radiator gave enough clearance (contrary to how it looks with only half the front bodywork attached), I later replaced it with a more efficient unit. The new one doesn't sit quite so low but - more importantly - offers more cooling if required. I never ran the car hard enough with the setup shown in the video to need anything better, but it's hot around here in the summer.

[TheNewbpowner123]

A little fatter tires would have been cool

[grandmaSmellsofFarts]

A women drives that thing, sexy

[kenzo5716]

I had the same problem with the Chevy V6 I put in my 72 MGB...radiator hanging too low. I used a V8 radiator from a 1965 Mustang. Fit good width wise and kept it cooled down.

[TargaMiata]

@blockheadface A bit lighter than the Miatas - the MG and the Miata start out around the same weight, but the stock MG engine is a real boat anchor and it sits in a heavy subframe. Based on some of our Miata builds, I'd say it's about 200 lbs lighter than a similarly spec'd Miata with about the same distribution.

Thanks for the compliments!

[blockheadface]

@TargaMiata Awesome! I've been reading through your build diary from time to time too, and I have a huge amount of respect for your skills. The purists may not like it, but I think it's fantastic. Classic styling with modern technology. Probably a similar distribution and lower weight to the LS1 Miatas you build at Flyin' Miata, I'm thinking? Looking forward to a video update.

[TargaMiata]

@blockheadface An update: in full street trim (interior, spare tire, full tank of gas, etc) the car is 2376 lbs. Weight distribution is 51.9:48.1. Better than most cars. I'll have a video of the current state of the car as soon as the roads clear up a bit. It looks a little more finished with the fender flares :)

[mudluver27]

Jus rediculous. lol badazz. Now put some silent exhaust on it and make some money on the streets lol.

[blockheadface]

@TargaMiata I imagine you'd be putting in a sturdier rear end as well, which would help to even out the weight distribution. Very nice project; I'll be keen to follow it as you progress.