1979 was a year of huge political changes in the UK, with the Conservative Party, led by Margaret Thatcher, taking over control of the UK government from the incumbent Labour Party, led by James Callaghan. The effect on transatlantic trade wasn’t good as the value of Sterling increased against a weakening dollar. With over 70% of MGs going to the US market, the US branch of BL, Jaguar-Rover-Triumph, launched a Limited Edition MGB at the 1979 New York International Motor Show.
Produced in black, with silver decals, it marked 50 years of production at Abingdon. The Roadster model was fitted with GKN-produced Triumph Stag style alloys, leather-trimmed, three-spoke steering wheel, chromed boot rack and front air dam. It retained the standard interior.
The phrase Limited Edition in marketing terms must have been open to interpretation, with 5000 initially planned. Such was the demand for this version that there are reports of over six thousand US Limited Edition MGBs being produced, of which none was the GT model. Not all US LEs made it across the pond, as some found their way to mainland Europe. To suit US emission regulations the B-series was fitted with a single Zenith 1500CD4T carburettor, which strangled the engine down to 67bhp. Its European equivalent, on twin SU
