The MGC shares its monocoque bodyshell with the MGB but incorporates significant modifications to accommodate the six-cylinder engine. The engine bay is revised to accept the longer C-series unit, with a deep U-shaped welded-in crossmember combining engine and suspension mounting points, a fundamentally different front-end structure from the MGB's separate crossmember and coil spring towers. The floor pan is modified to clear the torsion bar front suspension, and the front subframe differs entirely from the MGB. Externally, the most visible difference is the distinctive bonnet with its pronounced bulge sloping towards the front to clear the relocated radiator and six-cylinder engine, and a smaller teardrop bulge at the top left to clear the carburettor tops.
To the casual observer, the MGC is almost indistinguishable from the MGB when viewed from the rear or the side, the bonnet and the 15-inch wheels are the principal visual identification points.
What is Shared with the MGB
The majority of body panels, fittings, and trim are either shared with the MGB or can be adapted from MGB parts. Doors, boot lid (Roadster) and tailgate (GT), rear body panels, sills, floor sections (except the front floor area), wings (except where the front inner structure differs), windscreen, rear screen, and most glazing components are all shared with the contemporary MGB (1967 to 1969 specification). This is the fundamental principle of the MGC parts catalogue, it is a supplement covering only what differs from the MGB. For any body component not specifically listed in the MGC sections, the MGB body catalogue for chassis numbers 138401 to 187210 should be consulted.
What is MGC-Specific
The bonnet assembly is entirely MGC-specific, both the aluminium original and a fibreglass alternative are available. The bonnet cable, bonnet moulding (the horizontal stainless steel strip across the bulge), sealing plates, rear channel seal, and rear lip seal are all unique to the MGC. The bonnet locking platform, locking platform support, and soundproofing kit are also specific items. Inner wing reinforcements (sometimes called 'trumpets'), rear sections of the front side members, and front floor repair panels address the structural areas where the MGC differs from the MGB.
These front-end structural panels are critical for maintaining the integrity of the torsion bar suspension and engine mounting geometry, pattern panels should always be used during restoration rather than attempting to modify MGB panels.
Badges and Decals
The boot lid badge reads 'MGC' on Roadsters, while GTs use individual 'MGC GT' letters on the tailgate. Complete decal and plate sets, covering all the stickers, transfers, and plates originally fitted to the car, are available in three specifications: Roadster (not North America), Roadster (North America), and GT.
Sebring Body Styling
Fibreglass replicas of the panels fitted to the famous Sebring competition cars, wing kits for both Roadster and GT, front and rear valances with brake cooling scoops, and headlamp cowls, allow owners to create the ultimate competition-inspired MGC appearance.