1975 MG Midget

The MG Midget revived the Midget name that was first seen with MG M Type Midget of the late 1920's. It was based upon the successful Austin Healey (Frog Eye) Sprite but with significant body changes and similar Sprite versions continued alongside it until 1971. During it's life significant changes occurred, including engine capacities rising from 948cc to 1493cc and finally, the controversial, 1500cc model.This was because it suffered from the most significant changes to any MG of the period. The 'Rubber Bumpers' were needed to satisfy changing Federal safety regulations in the US market. This also meant changes were needed to both the engine and gearbox. Unfortunately, the choice was guaranteed to generate controversy because it was the Triumph 1493cc unit that was also fitted to the Midget's market rival, the Spitfire. This was partly due to the need to have an engine that complied with US regulations and still produce enough power to give respectable performance.

In the Midget, the engine now sat in a more confined space that dictated some changes to ancillaries that saw a reduced power output and all it did was to simply match that of the outgoing 'A' series 1275cc engine. What this engine did give though was quite noticeably better torque and performance that meant the Midget now gave the MGB a real run for it's money. There were other advantages such as an all-synchromesh gearbox.Putting these issues to one side , the 1500 was a sales success with 72,289 examples being made between 1974 and 1979 and today they remain a firm favourite with an enthusiastic following, not least because of their affordable price to buy and maintain.

The word 'time-warp' is often over used but it certainly applies to this 1975 MG Midget. We are informed by the vendor that this incredible little sports car has only covered a mere 8,750 miles and is totally original except for the exhaust and battery. It even sits on its original set of tyresUnlike most other cars of this age with such low mileage, it has not spent 30-plus years sitting untouched and stored in some garage so it doesn't need extensive recommissioning. The vendor has provided us with the following MOT information regarding mileage.

August 1980: 2801 miles

October 1981 4947 miles

March 1983 5750 miles

April 1984 6168 miles

May 1985 6632 miles

May 1986 6879 miles

May 1987 7009 miles

May 1988 7161 miles

June 1989 7335 miles

August 1991 7547 miles

May 1993 7667 miles

July 1994 7714 miles

July 1995 7934 miles

October 1997 7934 miles

July 2005 8450 miles

July 2006 8547 miles

May 2011 8664 miles

July 2012 8740 miles

The 1500cc engine fires up without hesitation from cold on light choke and settles to a smooth tick over very quickly. The engine packs plenty of torque as it delivers a nice 'blatty' exhaust note and the road manners are excellent with sharp, precise steering ensuring it goes exactly where you point it. The bodywork is in superb original condition with only a few age related minor scuffs. The original rubber bumpers are remarkably well preserved with no scratches, scuffs or distortions.

The black metal crinkle finish dashboard is in excellent condition and there is no radio, as a result the interior remains original. The vinyl seats are also in good order with no tears, as are the door cards. Even the black soft top is in good order as well as the rear window. This car just oozes 1970's!

This MG Midget is a very rare car, its combination of low mileage and being completely original make it a real 'time-warped' car and an ideal first affordable classic.