The contact breaker ignition system fitted to the MGB was state of the art in 1962 and remains functional when correctly maintained, but it has inherent limitations. Points wear and drift with use, altering ignition timing gradually between services and degrading performance and economy in ways too gradual to notice day to day but too significant to ignore over a season. Electronic ignition units eliminate the contact breaker entirely, replacing the points and condenser with a solid-state trigger that requires no adjustment and does not wear. The result is consistent spark timing at all engine speeds, improved cold starting, and better throttle response.
Performance distributors combine electronic ignition with an optimised advance curve for the MGB engine. Performance coils increase spark energy, particularly beneficial at higher revs. Red rotor arms provide improved electrical contact and greater resistance to tracking. Performance HT leads reduce resistance for maximum spark energy delivery. Spark plugs are available in correct grades for standard and tuned engines.