Competitive hillclimb/sprint car in road registered class
Built from a new body shell with lightweight glass fibre panels
1,293cc engine refreshed in 2022
4-speed straight-cut, close-ratio gearbox built in 2022
LSD with 4.2:1 differential installed in 2023
Retains its original Buff Logbook from 1966
The Appeal
Hillclimbing and sprint racing were both very popular during the 1960s and the likes of MG knew full well its customers were after cars that could be used to compete. Cars like the Austin Healey Sprite had been very popular for this application, so MG launched the closely related Midget in June 1961. With an A Series engine under the bonnet, think of the Midget as the Mini's rear-wheel-drive, open-topped cousin. Its wheelbase was a mere 80" and weighing in at just three-quarters of a ton, it was an absolute riot to drive.
This 1966 MkIII was built up from a new shell around eight years ago by a father and son with new glass fibre panels and a raft of mechanical upgrades for hillclimbing and sprint races although it's understood that they did not campaign the car. The next keeper did race it though, a known regular of Harewood, and so has the vendor who has enjoyed competing at club events around the country over the last three years.
The car competes within the road registered class and is said to have performed very well indeed. The list of modifications accompanies is well-documented, so the next owner will be familiar with its specifications right from the get-go.
History and Paperwork
MkIII Midget first registered in 1966
Original Buff Logbook present
Tax and MOT exempt
Built approximately eight years ago from a new body shell and lightweight glass fibre panels
Campaigned by a subsequent owner at Harewood for several years
Current owner has competed at club events around the country for the last three years
18,834 miles indicated - believed to be miles completed since the car was rebuilt circa eight years ago
Engine refreshed in 2024 by Rally of Withnell with MED rear crank oil seal modification
Cylinder head removed and checked for 2024 season with Longman/Downton casting
Competition gearbox built by KN Transmissions in 2022
LSD built by KN Transmissions in 2023
The Condition
Paintwork has some small chips and marks expected after eight years
Underside and internal sections treated with rust prevention wax
Hood, frame, and hood cover in good order and working well
Internal carpets and heater retained for occasional road trips
Competition seats with driver's harness in date until end of 2026
Revolution 13” alloy wheels (new 2022) fitted with Avon CR6 ZZ tyres
White number panels are stickers and can be removed.
The Mechanics
1,293 cc A Series l4
Four-speed straight cut close ratio gearbox
LSD with 4.2:1 differential
High Torque starter
Isolator switch
Aldon electronic distributor
Weber Carburettor
MED 7.5” Light Flywheel and Clutch installed in 2022
High-flow alloy radiator with electric fan
Maniflow complete exhaust
New front uprights including Kingpins and bushes
Spax adjustable dampers front and rear installed in 2022
Panhard rod and Anti-Tramp bars
BEFORE YOU BUY
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