The MGB GT shares the basic bodyshell structure with the Roadster from the windscreen forward, but the rear bodywork, roof structure, and tailgate assembly are entirely unique to the GT. Any body panel from the windscreen rearward on a GT is specific to that body style and cannot be interchanged with Roadster components. The MGB GT V8 was produced exclusively in GT bodystyle, the closed-coupe form with permanent steel roof, fixed quarter glass at each side, and rear hatchback tailgate, with no factory V8 roadster, and its GT-specific panels are shared with the contemporary four-cylinder MGB GT.
Tailgate & Surround
The GT tailgate is the rear hatch, top-hinged for boot access, supplied as a complete assembly with its glass, seal, hinges, and lock mechanism. The tailgate aperture in the bodyshell, the surrounding roof structure, the rear window surround, and the rear quarter panels are all GT-specific items not shared with the Roadster body, and are essential for any GT restoration.
Roof Structure
The GT roof is a permanent welded structure incorporating the windscreen header rail, the side roof rails, and the rear roof bow above the tailgate aperture. Roof corrosion is uncommon except where the gutters or seals have failed and allowed water entry, and the roof structure rarely needs panel-level repair work in normal restoration. The roof carries drip rails at each side that direct water away from the door apertures, along with various trim mouldings at the roof and rear quarter areas.
Rear Quarter Panels & C-Posts
Rear quarter panels form each side of the GT body between the rear of the door and the rear wheelarch, incorporating the fixed quarter glass aperture and most of the C-posts. Quarter panel corrosion is most common at the lower edge where it meets the sill and rear wheelarch, a known weak point on GT bodywork, and quarter panel repair sections cover this commonly affected area. The GT rear inner wing and rear structural sections also differ from the Roadster owing to the different boot floor and rear body arrangement, and the rear valance differs between chrome bumper and rubber bumper models.
Heritage Shells
Heritage body shells are available for the GT as well as the Roadster, providing a complete new bodyshell for cars where the structural corrosion is beyond economical repair. Individual GT-specific panels, repair sections, and all associated structural components are available for targeted restoration work.