The MGB GT V8 was fitted with V8-specific composite alloy wheels, 5J × 14 inch with 4-stud fixing pattern. The composite construction combines a cast aluminium alloy centre and a chrome-plated steel rim, riveted together at the rim flange. The cast alloy centre carried the wheel studs and provided the structural connection to the hub; the chrome-plated steel rim provided the tyre seating surface and the bright outer edge of the wheel. The composite construction was a 1970s engineering compromise between cost (cheaper than fully cast aluminium) and weight (lighter than fully steel), distinctive to the V8.
Wheel Variations
Chrome-bumper V8s used one wheel centre design with the original Dunlop composite specification. Rubber-bumper V8s were fitted with a revised centre design while retaining the same overall dimensions and fixing pattern. Both designs share 5J × 14 inch dimensions and the standard MGB 4-stud bolt pattern. The two designs differ in styling detail rather than function.
Replacement Wheels
Original Dunlop composite wheels are increasingly difficult to source in good condition, with sun-aged paint, corrosion at the alloy-to-steel rim joint, and rim damage all common on surviving original wheels. Modern replacement wheels reproducing the original Dunlop style are available, with the 5J × 14 dimensions and 4-stud fixing of the originals.
The replacement wheels are typically of better construction than the surviving originals, with improved corrosion resistance and modern manufacturing tolerances.
Tyre Sizes
The factory tyre size for the V8's 5J × 14 inch wheels was 175HR-14, with three different makes specified at production: Goodyear G800 Grand Prix, Michelin XAS and Pirelli CN36. The MGB GT V8 in 1973 was notably the first MGB to be fitted with tubeless tyres as standard. Modern equivalents in 175/70 R14 and 185/70 R14 sizes fit the original wheel dimensions correctly. Larger or wider modern tyres can be fitted but may affect speedometer accuracy and handling characteristics.
MGOC Spares
MGOC Spares supplies V8 alloy wheels in factory-pattern designs for chrome-bumper and rubber-bumper specifications.