MGB GT V8 Costello

Biarritz Sports & Classic Cars (BSCC) is proud to present this 1972 MGB Costello V8.

The MGB Costello V8 was produced between 1969 and 1973 by British tuner Ken Costello. Over this period, around 225 MGB Costellos were built, including 190 coupés, making them highly sought-after.

Ken Costello designed these conversions by fitting a 3.5-litre Costello-prepared V8 into the lightweight MGB chassis. It produces 150 hp and is paired with a short-throw 4-speed gearbox with overdrive.

After these years of artisanal production, MG eventually introduced its own V8-powered MGB, directly inspired by Costello’s work. This factory version was produced in much greater numbers (around 2,600 units).

This example comes in a traditional British Racing Green finish with a Camel interior. It is right-hand drive, as were all Costello-built MGBs.

The car is in perfect running condition and ready to hit the road.

This Costello V8 was delivered new in Germany, making it the only example sold in that country. It is properly identified and officially listed in the mgcostello.com registry.

It is a Mk II, recognizable by its flat bonnet instead of the bulged hood found on the Mk I. The engine breathes through Weber twin-barrel carburetor.

The V8 engine comes from the Rover P6, the most powerful of the original Rover V8s, enhanced by Costello’s own modifications, including the intake manifold stamped with the Costello name. Period advertising even described the car as a “Porsche 911 and Jaguar E-Type killer.”

In terms of maintenance and reliability, numerous service operations have been carried out: new radiator, brake master cylinder, filters, along with various mechanical improvements. A large folder of invoices and service records is included, demonstrating the meticulous care given to this exceptional car.

Far more desirable than a factory-built MG V8, this Costello is an iconic embodiment of the automotive spirit of the 1960s–70s: audacity, clever engineering, motorsport influence and pure passion — all in one.