Fibreglass body panels offer a practical alternative to steel for owners building a performance or competition-influenced car, or for those who want to reduce the weight of individual panels without committing to a full body change. The weight saving over steel is the primary benefit, particularly for the bonnet, where the change from aluminium to steel in 1969 added significant weight that a fibreglass replacement brings back down while retaining the correct profile and standard hinge and lock points. Fibreglass also does not corrode, an incidental but valuable benefit for cars used in damp conditions.
Panel Range
Front wings in fibreglass are available for both Roadster and GT in left and right hand fitments, suiting owners seeking weight savings at the front of the car or building for track or competition use. A fibreglass boot lid is available for the Roadster, and an RV8-style fibreglass bonnet provides the more aggressive bonnet profile of the MG RV8 for owners building a V8 conversion or seeking a distinctive front-end appearance. On the MGC, a fibreglass bonnet is available as an alternative to the aluminium original, typically saving 10 to 15 lb and without the corrosion issues that affect ageing aluminium around the hinges, locking platform, and the edges of the distinctive bulge. Fibreglass wings, valances, and boot lids are also available, and for Sebring-style competition builds, fibreglass flared wing kits are available within the Sebring Body Styling section.
Fitting & Finishing
Fibreglass panels require the same preparation and painting process as steel panels, with careful fitting, correct priming, and a good-quality top coat all required for a professional result, though the primer and paint specifications differ from those used for steel. Fibreglass is less dimensionally consistent than steel pressings and may need trimming, filling, or shimming at the mounting points for correct alignment, but quality panels offer good fit with minimal adjustment. As with all body panels, the correct fitment for the body style and production period should be confirmed before ordering.