MG Midget: Models and Specs

The MG Midget arrived in 1961 as MG’s version of the Austin-Healey Sprite. Initially, it was little more than a re-badged Sprite, with the two models often grouped under the “Spridget” nickname. The first MG Midget used the BMC A-Series engine and a simple open two-seat body, giving MG a smaller and cheaper sports car to complement its larger models.

Across its production life, the Midget’s engine capacity increased from 948cc to 1098cc and onto 1275cc, before the 1500 model adopted the Triumph-derived 1493cc engine. The same broad theme remained throughout in terms of rear-wheel drive, simple mechanicals and a lightweight roadster body. 

The Sprite’s later years were shaped by changing safety and emissions requirements, particularly in the troublesome US market. The 1500 introduced the most significant changes of the period, including the Triumph engine, revised gearbox package and rubber bumpers - the latter ‘thanks’ to American legislative changes. Despite controversy among purists, the 1500 gave the Midget more torque and provided a strong-selling final chapter before MGs became mildly sportier Austin Rover hatchbacks and saloons.

The MG Midget’s performance evolved modestly rather than dramatically, and remained modest rather than dramatic. Early cars relied on small-capacity BMC A-Series engines, while later versions gained more displacement and eventually the Triumph-derived 1493cc unit which gave the chassis its best opportunity to shine.

The MG Midget compressed the traditional British sports-car formula into a very small footprint. Its long-bonnet/short-tail proportions, low scuttle, upright windscreen and open two-seat layout give it the aura of an MG in miniature. Across almost two full decades of production, it remained a compact roadster with rounded wings, a short cabin and minimal overhangs.

The cabin follows the same less-is-more philosophy. It’s low, narrow and functional, with the driver sitting close to both the controls and the car’s extremities. The Midget was designed as an affordable, mechanical sports car whose simplicity was part of the charm, which makes them something of an acquired taste in the ADAS era. Even as later versions became (slightly) more substantial, the Midget’s essential identity remained unaltered.

The MG Midget’s safety philosophy was based on compact size, simple construction, predictable controls and period braking/suspension. Later cars were influenced by changing safety regulations, especially in the US market, where rubber bumpers and increased ride height became part of the final 1500-era package. Given the relative size of most modern vehicles, the Midget isn’t a car you’d want to experience a crash in.

MG Midget Mk I: Introduced in 1961 with modest 948cc A-Series power, Sprite-based engineering and removable side screens.

MG Midget Mk II: The Mk II heralded - pun intended - greater roadster usability thanks to body and cabin improvements, while keeping the same diminutive identity.

MG Midget Mk III: The long-running 1275cc-era Midget gained more mature performance and broader appeal.

MG Midget 1500: The final major evolution, and arguably the best if you can live with those rubber bumpers, incorporating the Triumph-derived 1493cc engine and revised gearing.

Pros

• Sprite-derived “Spridget” engineering gives the MG Midget a simple, proven classic sports-car base.

• Strong specialist and parts support makes ownership more approachable than many small classics.

• A strong first-classic profile suits buyers looking for an affordable MG.

Cons

• The 1500’s Triumph engine changed the car’s character and remains more divisive than the earlier A-Series cars.

• Rust in the body structure is the biggest model-wide ownership concern.

• The rubber bumpers are unattractive, which is why some owners have replaced them with chrome - or simply removed them and gone without.

In truth, there are very few differences, as this was an early example of badge engineering across what would become the British Leyland behemoth. Other than grilles, hubcaps and - obviously - badges, these cars were mechanically identical and aesthetically very similar. Connoisseurs have picked up on minor trim differences, but few casual buyers would be able to spot them.

An MG Midget can be used regularly if the owner’s expectations are realistic. After all, this is a small rag-top post-war sports car rather than a refined modern daily driver. The model’s simplicity helps, but its compact cabin, limited weather protection and older safety standards make it better suited to weekend use than commuting or the school run.

The MG Midget’s simple four-cylinder engines, manual gearbox, rear-wheel-drive layout and strong parts supply help keep routine ownership costs manageable compared with many classics. As mentioned above, the mechanical crossover with the Austin-Healey Sprite helps to ensure parts are readily available.

For a first MG Midget, many buyers seek out a sound, usable car with good history rather than chasing a specific version. The 1275cc cars are among the most usable A-Series models, while the 1500 is the quickest and often retains the strongest value.