1964 MG Midget MK1
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Highlights
- Rare and desirable 1,098 cc Mk1 GAN2 with front disc brakes
- Fully restored and retrimmed to its factory specifications
- Original bodywork, trim, components and fasteners restored and reused wherever possible
- Original green log book and BMIHT Heritage Certificate present, confirming matching numbers
- 64,764 miles indicated and believed correct
- Sympathetically upgraded with electronic ignition and a rear panhard rod
The Appeal
With MG focusing its efforts on its core models, namely the MGA and MGB, this left a gap in the range for a compact, affordable sports car like those the Abingdon firm had been responsible for pre-war. Alongside the Austin-Healey Sprite, the MG ‘Midget’ was commissioned to fill that void and entered production in 1961. These diminutive roadsters proved immensely popular, dominating amateur hill-climb and autotest competitions even to this day.
We’re delighted to offer this prime example which also happens to be the variant enthusiasts are looking for. This 1964 MG Midget Mk1 GAN2 has been subject to a superlative restoration after the vendor acquired it in 2020. Sourced locally via a fellow MG enthusiast, the car formerly belonged to a gentleman who is understood to have possibly been the original purchaser back in 1964.
The restoration aimed to preserve as much of the original car as possible since it was complete and in very well-preserved condition. Original bodywork, trim, mechanical components and fasteners were restored and reused wherever feasible which has resulted in a beautifully restored example. Any new materials or parts were carefully selected to be as close to the originals as possible, so all the details are just right.
The vendor assures us that the MG drives beautifully, with a fit and responsive engine offering ample performance. For enthusiasts seeking a fabulous example, you need look no further.
The History and Paperwork
- It’s understood that the car has been garage-stored all its life
- The mileage is believed to be correct based on the car’s history
- The last MOT by the previous long-term owner was in Aug 1989, the odometer reading was 64,679
- Since 1969, the car has been 'barn' stored, recovered then fully rebuilt and shows just over 110 miles more covered since
- The engine, gearbox and rear axle are confirmed matching numbers
- BMIHT Heritage Certificate
- Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
- The car is local to the vendor from new and was in single long-term ownership until around 4 years ago
- Acquired in a totally complete non-running order from a fellow MG enthusiast
- The car has always been dry garage stored as far as the vendor is aware
The Condition
- The car was stripped to a bare metal shell, with any old or inelegant repairs painstakingly rectified to an exemplary standard
- Some minor corrosion was found in usual places like sills and floors, which was treated to prevent it from returning
- Any panelwork requiring replacement was carefully carried out, avoiding modern pattern parts
- The metalwork is now as well-finished as possible and largely original
- Many of the fasteners where possible are original and replated
- Side screens present, original and serviceable but are not in perfect condition
- The vendor notes that the key will not lock the boot
- The interior has been retrimmed in as near to the correct colour of blue as possible with the original panels carefully recovered
- All switches and instruments are correct and the original items
- Retains its original, rare MG steering wheel
- A new hood in the correct colour was commissioned to match the original
- Also equipped with a matching new tonneau cover
- The shell was painted by a classic car refinishing specialist
- The chromework apart from the side strips is all original and sound, with light patina in places but nothing excessive
The Mechanics
- The vendor reports that the car drives well and the engine is very responsive
- 1,098 cc A Series four-cylinder engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- The engine was stripped, cleaned and fully rebuilt - all parts were sourced from a well-known 1,098 cc A series specialist who ensures their origin
- New shell bearings, crank & rods balanced, first rebore carried out and new pistons fitted
- Slightly updated camshaft with new followers and new timing chain (British)
- The cylinder head was overhauled with new guides, valves and springs
- The back axle was rebuilt with all new bearings and seals, rear springs reset and original shock absorbers overhauled
- The prop shaft was overhauled
- The gearbox was stripped, inspected and rebuilt as required
- New clutch plate installed with NOS cover
- New fuel tank fitted
- Electronic distributor fitted but the original is with the car
- A rear panhard rod has been added which the vendor considers essential with quarter ecliptics
- Front suspension fully rebuilt along with the steering
- The car has a new loom which was commissioned in the correct colour of fabric cover
- The regulator has an internal electronic modification for reliability
- Refurbished original light fittings
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1964
- Make MG
- Model Midget
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 64,764 Miles
- Engine size 1098
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Holywood
- Location Northern Ireland
- Country United Kingdom
7
bids
from 5
bidders
- be•••• £11,000 28/03/24
- Ch•••• £10,750 28/03/24
- be•••• £10,500 28/03/24
- St•••• £10,000 21/03/24
- pa•••• £9,000 21/03/24
- be•••• £8,200 21/03/24
- Ch•••• £8,000 21/03/24
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|---|---|
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