Diecast for today and the week! 8/30/21 to 9/5/21 - MGBs aplenty!

Rather than show a different MGB each day, I thought I would cluster all my diecasts in one post. The MGB, the most prolific sports car in history until the arrival of the Miata, appeared in 1962 and lasted until the last 1980 model rolled off the line in Abingdon. It was the first MG with unitary body construction. With a couple exceptions, all of mine seem to be the so-called Mark I model, with chrome grille, and made until late 1967.

The first 1/43 diecast MGB was made by Dinky Toys as No. 113, made from 1962 to 1968. Given that intro date, it seems likely Dinky worked with BMC to get the model ready for the real car's release. Most were made in white with red seats and a driver, and it had suspension and opening doors. The molds would eventually find their way to India, where it was released under the Nicky Toys brand.

In October 1965 MG introduced the MGB GT, it too lasting until 1980. It was a nice looking little hatchback, integrating the lines of the MGB very well. Not to be outdone by Dinky, Corgi brought out their MGB GT, made from 1967 to 1969, also with suspension and opening doors. But Corgi added chrome grille and bumper parts, jeweled headlights, cast wire wheels, and an opening hatch with a suitcase inside. Next to the Dinky, quite a leap forward.

AUTOart 56611 is listed as a Mark II MGB from 1969. A nicely made model with poseable wheels, chrome trim, and wheels that are properly silver (vs. chrome). AA made a GT version but the rear portion was a tad too elongated. 

In recent years Corgi, in the Vanguards series, has released a number of MGBs. VA10701 from 2007 represents a '67 MGB with a hardtop that was modified to compete in the inaugural Willhire 24-hour race. Sponsored by Moto-Build, the car placed 16th. I wouldn't be surprised if the special packaging was intended to promote the team and/or race. 

Corgi issued a set of MGB roadsters used by the Lancashire Constabulary as No. LC1003 (respectfully VA10702, VA10703, and VA10704). Yes, MGs were used by British police for many years, from prewar models up to the MG ZT. The more experienced Lancashire cops got the white cars, while newer recruits got the black ones. At some point in time the lower part of the white cars were painted orange to enhance visibility. The left and right cars I could match up to real ones by registration; the black car I could not but there were a lot of black police cars so maybe Corgi had more to work with than the internet offers. Included under the base are parts to display the cars with the tops up.

One last Corgi, VA10707 represents a 1964 entry in the Monte Carlo rally. Driven by the Morley brothers, they placed 17th overall but 1st in the GT class. 

Many more Corgi/Vanguards MGB have appeared.

When Matchbox obtained rights to the Dinky name, they issued an MGB GT with a simulated fold-back sunroof as No. DY-3.

In 1973 MG offered a B GT with the 3.5L Rover V8 engine, which actually weighed less than the 4-cylinder due to its aluminum block (dating back to GM's Olds and Buick compacts from the early 1960s. The Matchbox Dinky was issued with V8 markings and the model appeared with a solid roof and a later style grille.

Ixo's MGB, No. CLC230, is listed as a 1964 model but it could easily pass for any of the Mk. Is. Color is Iris Blue. This model appeared in 2011.

In 1967 Minichamps issued their take on the MGB, issued as No. 430 131031 in the classic British Racing Green. Labeled as a 1962, once again it could be any Mk. I. Of all the recent MGB diecasts, I think theirs has the best dash detail.

I'll leave my resin MGBs for another time, as well as the MGC and RV8 variants.