Description
1974 MG Midget 1275 – Rare Round Wheel Arch – 25 Years Same Ownership – Recommissioning Project
There is something particularly appealing about an MG Midget that has simply been tucked away rather than passed from owner to owner, and this charming 1974 example comes to market with a lovely story.
Finished in red and fitted with the desirable 1275cc A-Series engine, this is the sought-after Round Wheel Arch model, produced for a relatively short period and today regarded by many enthusiasts as one of the most attractive and collectable versions of the chrome-bumper Midget.
The car was purchased by its previous lady owner in the spring of 2001. She had always admired MG Midgets and decided to finally treat herself to one. For the following twelve years it was loved, used and enjoyed exactly as an MG should be.
In 2013 circumstances changed when its owner emigrated. Rather than sell the car, it was placed into her parents’ garage, where it remained safely stored for the following thirteen years. Now, some 25 years after she originally bought it, the time has finally come for the Midget to find a new custodian.
After its extended period in storage, the car is being offered as a recommissioning project and we think it represents a particularly appealing opportunity.
Importantly, this isn’t a dismantled restoration or a collection of boxes. The Midget is complete, running and driving, and appears remarkably sound throughout. We have deliberately included photographs of the underside so prospective buyers can see the condition for themselves rather than simply taking our word for it.
The 1275cc engine starts and runs well, showing excellent oil pressure, the clutch operates correctly and the car drives, as demonstrated in our accompanying video.
The brakes do, however, require attention before the car can return to the road. We suspect that replacement wheel cylinders and a general overhaul of the braking system will be required, although we have deliberately not stripped or investigated the system and therefore buyers should make their own assessment.
Cosmetically, the car remains very presentable for its age. The paintwork has received attention at various points in its life but still presents perfectly acceptably, while the interior and soft top have survived particularly well. The tyres also appear in good physical condition, although given the length of time the car has been stored we would recommend replacing them on age grounds before returning the car to regular use.
What makes this Midget particularly attractive is that it appears to offer the opportunity to recommission rather than completely restore. Attend to the mechanical items required after its long period of storage, put it back on the road and then simply use, enjoy and improve it at your own pace.
For somebody considering their first venture into classic car ownership, it would be difficult to find a more approachable proposition. Equally, for the experienced enthusiast looking for an enjoyable weekend project without committing to a full-scale restoration, there is plenty to like here.
The MG Midget remains one of the most accessible British sports cars to own. Mechanical simplicity, superb club support and exceptional parts availability mean virtually everything required to maintain and improve one can still be obtained, usually at very sensible prices. That makes cars such as this enormous fun without the potentially daunting costs associated with many other classics.
The desirable 1275cc engine and Round Wheel Arch bodywork add another dimension. These later chrome-bumper RWA cars have developed a particularly strong following and represent an increasingly sought-after chapter in the Midget story.
After thirteen years asleep in a garage, this lovely little MG deserves to be brought back to life and enjoyed once again.
We strongly recommend viewing the car in person so that prospective buyers can satisfy themselves as to its condition and the extent of the recommissioning required. We have intentionally presented it as honestly as possible, including detailed photographs and a video showing the car running and driving.
Please note that although the MG runs and drives, due to the braking system requiring attention it cannot be driven away from our premises. It must be transported by trailer or transporter.
Should you decide this is the project for you, we will be delighted to arrange delivery to anywhere in the UK.
A charming, remarkably solid and increasingly desirable Round Wheel Arch 1275 MG Midget, emerging from 25 years with the same owner and thirteen years in dry storage. An affordable and achievable project with all the ingredients to become a thoroughly enjoyable little British sports car once again.
