Description
A really genuine example with almost 25 years of detailed maintenance, this stunning little Midget is an absolute cracker. Presented in virtually unmarked Brooklands Green with superb Biscuit interior, this unrestored and very original MG has been cherished by effectively 2 long term keepers since 2003 (just 4 prior to that) and drives even better than it looks. Benefitting from an excellent hood, custom tonneau and hood covers and a current MoT to September 2025 (albeit technically exempt), this very British sports car just needs the sun to shine. Great fun and great value.
Introduced in 1961 and with production running for some 18 years, the Midget was a small, open 2-seater sports car that evolved through several incarnations. Initially fitted with a 948cc A-Series engine, early cars were very basic with no external door furniture, plastic side screens for windows and a heater came as an optional extra. In 1966, with the launch of the Mk. III, the A-Series engine had grown to 1275cc, producing around 65BHP, and some modern luxury now featured with wind-up windows, improved and updated suspension and an attached hood. In 1969 came further revisions to the model with black-painted sills, square taillights and Rostyle wheels but the biggest change came in 1972 when the previously square rear arches became rounded for the first time. These final RWA Mk. III cars (1972-74) also featured a better steering rack, borrowed from Triumph, and from 1973 onwards, an alternator replacing the outdated dynamo. Major changes came in 1974 with US Federal Regulations demanding greater safety resulting in the fitting of larger rubber bumpers front and rear, an increased ride height and the introduction of anti-roll bars. Mechanically, out went the A-Series and in it`s place the 1493cc Standard SC engine as seen in the Triumph Spitfire, developing 65BHP and a modified Morris Marina gearbox with synchromesh now on all forward gears. With taller ratios, this allowed for quicker acceleration than its predecessor and a top speed (for the brave!) of over 100MPH.
Our car was registered in May 1979 and supplied new to a gentleman in Midlothian, Scotland. Sadly, we know very little of it`s early years but understand that it was enjoyed sparingly before ultimately heading South during the 1990`s to become the summer plaything of a village shopkeeper near Abingdon, Oxfordshire. He sold the car in 1999 to a near neighbour who in turn sold the car to an MG enthusiast in an adjoining village in May 2003. Now evidently in need of light recommissioning, our new keeper immediately invested just under £1000 on a brake overhaul, ignition parts, new exhaust and tyres before putting it in for a fresh MoT some 2 weeks later. Now on the road, further expenditure over the next 5 years came in the form of minor welding, new radiator, shock absorbers and clutch with annual MoT inspections documenting limited but regular use. In 2009, the interior was upgraded with full Biscuit trim including carpets and a Walnut dash with a year later, the entire fuel and braking systems being overhauled with new tank, sender and hoses, all new discs and pad and replacement brake lines throughout. Further big investment came in 2011 with a full mechanical overhaul with replacement lead-free head, gaskets and ancillaries and the fitting of a new gearbox and clutch. Over £1900 in total. The next four years saw continued maintenance with carburettor rebuild and new alternator before the car finally moved West to find a new home in Dorchester. This proved to be short term (although invoices record a new fuel pump, hub seals and various ignition parts) before the car ultimately was purchased by another MG enthusiast near Yeovil. For the past 5 years, it has once again enjoyed a cherished existence with further detailed investment including a full brake overhaul, new clutch master and slave cylinders, replacement wheel bearings, carburettor rebuild and general servicing. The recent acquisition of an MG Magnette (from us) has resulted in a reluctant parting with this cossetted and surprisingly well-sorted little classic.
The photographs I hope tell the story today. This is a very genuine, unrestored example with excellent straight panels and largely original paintwork. It presents well and other than one or two minor age-related blemishes is practically unmarked and polishes up superbly with a deep lustre to the Brooklands Green paint. The cabin too is rather lovely with contrasting Biscuit trim and carpets in excellent shape. Turn the key and the eager 4-pot 1493cc fires up immediately settling down quickly off-choke to a gentle burble. On the road, the torquey engine and tall gear ratios allows for spirited driving with impressive acceleration, whilst firm brakes and positive steering all add to the driving fun. On a sunny Bank Holiday Monday, I took the little MG along the coast road to Bridport and it was smiles all the way. This car is all about one thing, having a good time, and it delivers on every level. Compact, nippy and surprisingly comfortable. What`s not to like!
Our Midget comes with a large history file documenting every item of expenditure from the early 2000`s to the present day, consecutive MoT Certificates from 2003 to 2025, a current MoT to September 2025 and a current V5C. Whilst benefitting from a current MoT, it is naturally both MoT and road tax exempt.
A cracking little Midget just ready to be enjoyed.
Shore Classics is based on the West Dorset coast within easy proximity of both Weymouth and the County town of Dorchester. As classic and vintage dealers, we offer full brokerage facilities. So if you require some help and guidance with selling your classic car or motorcycle, just give us a call today.
Deposit now taken.
