1977 MG Midget 1500

Highlights

  • Bare shell restoration in 2019
  • Near-immaculate inside
  • Plenty of work done to the mechanics

The Appeal

Brought in to fill a gap in MG’s lineup under the MGA in 1961, the MG Midget used a similar base as the original Austin Healey Sprite. During its near-twenty years on the market, the little sports car evolved into a modest yet fun B-road warrior.

First registered in 1977, this later example originally left the factory in yellow though has since been resprayed dark blue during a full restoration in 2019. Despite releasing after the 1974 addition of plastic bumpers to accommodate US regulations, this model features the chrome rear bumper of older models and does without the front end piece making for a truly unique sight.

It has also seen a lot of work away from the body with plenty of maintenance being done, especially in the past 3 years or so. It has a retrimmed interior that is to die for and has seen many chassis and engine parts replaced.




History and Paperwork

  • First registered September 1977
  • 27 owners from new
  • Odometer indicates 14,753 miles though it has reset, true mileage unknown
  • Lots of work done since 2021
  • MOT until March 2023
  • Collection of invoices included
  • Car comes with V5c




The Interior

  • Fully retrimmed interior done in 2019
  • Seemingly untouched cream leather seats
  • Door cards to match, also in excellent condition
  • White dashboard in great shape
  • Aftermarket, modern stereo system
  • Wood gear shifter knob
  • Slightly worn badge in centre of steering wheel
  • Plastic driver’s side window winder showing signs of wear
  • Carpets in presentable condition
  • Dials and buttons show very few signs of use
  • Chrome door handles also look great
  • Boot looks clean and houses the spare wheel



The Exterior

  • Fully restored in 2019
  • Originally a yellow car, it has been resprayed in dark blue
  • Brand new soft top hood looks immaculate
  • Post-1969 MGB-esque taillights
  • Plastic bumpers of the Midget 1500 removed
  • Rear chrome bumper
  • Chrome luggage rack in great shape
  • Front wings changed in 2019
  • Paint looks good aside from a scratch under near side door
  • Ever so faded offside front indicator
  • Signs of surface corrosion underneath

The Mechanics

  • Engine bay looks great
  • 1.5-litre inline-four engine
  • Four-speed manual transmission
  • Lots of work done between 2019 and 2022:
  • New brake assembly – discs, pads, master cylinder
  • New clutch master cylinder
  • New alternator, battery and fuel pump
  • New differential on rear axle



Summary

A lot of work has gone into this somewhat unique MG Midget. From the various aesthetic modifications to the extensive care that has gone into its mechanical health, this is certainly an attractive example.

Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1977
  • Make MG
  • Model Midget 1500
  • Colour Blue
  • Odometer 14,753 Miles
  • Engine size 1491
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Trade
  • Town Thame
  • Location Oxfordshire
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
23 bids
  • M&•••• £5,300 02/02/23
  • Ha•••• £5,200 02/02/23
  • M&•••• £5,100 02/02/23
  • M&•••• £5,000 02/02/23
  • Ha•••• £4,900 02/02/23
  • M&•••• £4,800 02/02/23
  • Ha•••• £4,700 02/02/23
  • Ha•••• £4,600 02/02/23
  • Ha•••• £4,500 02/02/23
  • Ha•••• £4,499 02/02/23
Message C&C Auction Team

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