1970 MGB MK II Roadster – Rare Cadet Blue “Transition” Survivor – Australian Built

An unrepeatable opportunity for the serious British car collector. Built in 1970 at BMC’s Zetland facility in Sydney, this meticulously preserved MGB MK II Roadster is a true time capsule. It features the highly coveted, single-year Cadet Blue factory paintwork.

Crucially, this is a rare “transition era” model. It retains the beautiful, pure 1960s aesthetic – complete with the factory chrome slat grille and classic rounded Lucas tail lights and striking chrome wire wheels – just months before global production switched to recessed black plastic grilles and squared lenses.

Lovingly kept by long-term custodianship of 50 years, this vehicle has not been driven in the rain during that time and has always been garaged. It represents the ultimate blend of MK II mechanical and body refinement and original MK I styling cues.

Key Specifications

• Year/Model: 1970 BMC MGB MK II Roadster (Australian Assembled)
• Chassis Prefix: Correct YHN5 Zetland compliance plate
• Engine: 1.8L BMC B-Series Inline-4 (Matching Numbers)
• Exhaust System: Stainless Steel throughout tuned extractor system.
• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual with factory Overdrive
• Wheels: Factory original Chrome Wire Wheels (splined hubs)
• Mileage: 100,214 trouble-free, mostly highway miles
• Colour: Cadet Blue Highly rare, single-year Australian option—only two others personally seen.
• History: 50 years of dry-weather use, zero rust
• Documentation: Original factory logbooks and a meticulous, unbroken service history

Condition Report

• Structure & Body: Completely rust-free in the sills, castle rails, and floor pans, Aluminium Bonnet. To preserve its authentic “survivor” status, the body features some minor, honest dings and cosmetic imperfections accumulated over half a century of careful enjoyment. It has been left deliberately original to prove it retains its factory-stamped sheet metal rather than a masked-over respray.
• Historical Provenance Note: Prior to my ownership, the car sustained a minor low-speed bump resulting in slight damage to the front left-hand mudguard and the right rear corner. This was repaired decades ago; the inner structure remains perfectly straight, sound, and rust-free.
• Mechanicals: The matching-numbers engine starts easily, idles beautifully, and pulls cleanly. The twin SU carburettors are properly tuned, and the highly desirable factory overdrive engages crisply.
• Interior: Remarkably intact, featuring functional original round Smiths gauges, correct 1970 switchgear, original controls, and well-preserved upholstery.

Inclusions & Provenance

This sale is a complete package for the dedicated enthusiast. It includes:

• The original factory vehicle logbook and handbook in original vinyl dealer wallet.
• A comprehensive binder detailing 50 years of meticulous service records.
• Original workshop manuals and spare parts manuals.
• A curated, comprehensive technical library specific to the MGB MK II.
• A collection of car-specific speciality tools, the original tonneau cover, the soft-top assembly, original car accessories and unique period accessories, i.e. Sonic chrome roll over hoop.
• Existing original parts kept as spares ,i.e. original air cleaners, exhaust manifold etc.
• Body spares primed and ready to paint, i.e. RH Door, LH Front Guard, Bonnet and Front valance.

Price & Inspection Terms

• Price Guide: **Premium Collectible Tier $34,000 – $42,000+**Reserved for rare factory colours, unbroken 50-year service logs, original condition, and extensive extras.
• Asking Price: $35,000 AUD (Sensible negotiation considered only after a physical inspection)
• Inspections: Welcomed by appointment for genuine collectors. Local hoist access for a full undercarriage inspection can be arranged.

Out of respect for the vehicle’s unique 50-year preservation, sight-unseen low-ball offers, third-party pickup requests, and generic text messages will not receive a reply.