TUNING MG B-SERIES ENGINES: CYLINDER HEAD FLOW

Part 1 of 2

The BMC B-series engine has its roots in the 1947-1952 Austin A40 Devon, in 1200cc form. It wasn’t until 1953 that it developed into the 1489cc form that’s become so familiar to us. This 1489cc was visually identical to the millions of B-series petrol engines in four capacities: 1489cc, 1588cc, 1622cc and 1798cc. The longevity of this engine is legendary. It soldiered on until 1980 in the MGB and in fact, as a 1798cc diesel, managed to continue until November 1986.

“HEAD MODS ARE KEY TO UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF ANY B-SERIES ENGINE.”

The MGB offered competitive performance at first but, by 1970, it was looking and sounding old. Whilst the B-series had effectively stood still, the competition hadn’t and this quickly eroded the MGB’s position. Tuning MGs for extra performance has always been part of many private owners’, and Abingdon’s, activity so it is hardly surprising that, with the factory Works cars competing internationally in the 1960s, extensive guidance was issued by the BMC Special