Many period-correct performance-enhancing modifications
Excellent driver’s car that attracts attention
The Appeal
When one thinks of coach builders, luxurious British cruisers from before the war is what most minds will look to. But throughout automotive history, companies have also managed to create stunning bodies for sports cars. Ashley with its GT body styles for both the MG Midget and Austin Sprite is certainly one of the best.
This 1964 car started its life out as an MG Midget MkII, but has since been overhauled to become an elegant GT reflecting back to the likes of the Ferrari 250 GTO and Shelby Daytona Coupe. Since getting its new frock in 2010, it has been imported to France from the UK and was prepared for competitive use in rallies.
Presenting in a fabulously focused manner, this car is sure to garner attention anywhere it goes. The current owner even reports that it is frequently put displayed as a highlight at the many car meets and racing events it visits.
Frequent servicing and a sympathetic approach to performance modifications means it is surely an example of the MG Midget in its ultimate form.
The History and Paperwork
First manufactured in 1964
Originally registered in the UK
Fully restored in 2011 by Ashley
Imported to France in 2017 by a specialist
Engine and chassis prepared for competition in 2018
Purchased by the current owner in 2020
Extensive overhaul upon purchase
Always garage stored
Annual checks and reconditioning under current ownership
Large history folder with the car
Many photos and invoices from the Ashley conversion and restoration
Invoices from work done both in the UK and France
Original British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate
Classic car registration and FFVE certificate
Technical inspection done in September 2023 in clean.
The Interior
Ashley GT interior specification
Very focused yet handsome cockpit
Great overall condition
Step inside this rare MG Ashley GT and feast your eyes on the focused, race-prepped interior cockpit. Indeed, in 2018 the car was prepared to compete in historic rallies by a specialist leaving it with period-correct bucket seats, racing harnesses and a roll cage.
By no means however does that result in an ugly place to be. In fact, green leather upholstery decorates much of the seats and door cards in a wonderful way whilst the black dashboard, carpets and roll cage make for a fantastic colour combination. The wood-rimmed steering wheel provides an excellent centre piece and very clean and seemingly secure headlining provides a light feeling aboard this focused model.
Speaking of light, this car has been stripped out for weight saving purposes. The heater in particular has been removed. However, it will be provided with the car, so the new owner can fit it if needs be. Elsewhere, all the dashboard controls look brilliant with their chrome finish and we have no reason to believe anything is faulty.
There are some signs of use throughout the interior, but nothing to shock anyone avid about driving. Open the boot and you will spot a freshly repainted floor following some repair work in 2020. Once more, for weight saving purposes, there is no spare wheel.
The Exterior
Ashley GT bodywork looks marvellous
Stunning, brand-new paint
Everything looks to be in fantastic condition
The main attraction of this car is certainly its exterior design. Having visited the Ashley workshop in 2010, it displays a wonderful example of the company’s GT body. Throwing back to mighty racers of the 1960s like the Shelby Daytona Coupe, it looks magnificent on the road, and even better thanks to a fresh coat of paint.
Indeed, the car was resprayed in 2022 in this brilliant shade of British Racing Green with door roundels and a light blue lip. The whole thing comes together excellently, especially with the black wire rims. These stunning wheels are fitted with period-correct Michelin XAS tyres, reportedly featuring plenty of tread.
Fully protected in 2020 from any corrosion, one will struggle to find many imperfection on this car. Both the bodywork and underside are seemingly in pristine condition. The owner does point out a cut and weld to the bottom of the rear right wing that occurred in 2022, during the respray. Furthermore, one can see some light signs of patina to the odd chrome fixture.
The Mechanics
A-Series 1.3-litre inline-four engine
The car drives well and sounds lovely
Many performance modifications
Under the bonnet of this Ashley GT-specification MG sits the Austin Motor Company A-Series 1.3-litre inline-four engine. However, this example has been modified with a variety of performance-enhancing parts including a WEBER 45 carburettor as well as uprated spark plugs, camshaft and engine head. It also has a custom stainless steel exhaust. As a result, the car reportedly sounds lovey and drives brilliantly.
Furthermore, improved suspension and brake elements mean it is well and truly sporty. That being said, the owner tells us that each and every part was selected to maintain the car’s period-correct condition.
Summary
With Ashley GT bodywork, this MG Midget MkII stands out in a crowd, looking utterly stunning. Pair that with the fresh coat of British Racing Green paint and many performance modifications and you have a model representing the Midget at its best.
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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