1979 MG Midget MKIV 1500 Roadster

By the 1960s, the MG Car Company had long since been absorbed into the British Motor Corporation (BMC).

The final version of the Midget first appeared in July of 1961, one month after the launch of its restyled progenitor - the Austin-Healey Sprite. Both shared the same bodyshell and mechanical underpinnings with only trim details, badges and price differentiating the two. The Midget initially came powered by a 948cc A-Series engine. The MKIII version was introduced in 1966, and the motor's capacity had increased via 1098cc to 1275cc. Semi-elliptic rear springs had replaced the quarter elliptics and the front disc brakes were now standard. They also had wind-up windows and a superior hood.

In 1972, the Midget gained a lower-geared Triumph steering rack. A second silencer was also added and the dynamo was removed and replaced with an alternator.

The final iteration, the MKIV, added an increased ride height, a new engine and gearbox, and deformable federal bumpers. The 1493cc engine and the four-speed manual gearbox were sourced from the Triumph Spitfire. With 66 horsepower, the two-seater was now capable of achieving 100 mph.

From 1961 to 1979, a total of 226,001 Midgets were produced.

This particular example has been given a cosmetic and mechanical restoration. It has a new interior seats, door panels, and carpet. There is a new convertible top, new chrome and lenses, and Mag lite wheels and tires. Currently it has approximately 50,000 miles on its odometer. In 2018, the car was offered for sale at the Hollywood Wheels 'Amelia Island Select' auction where it had an estimated value of $15,000 - $20,000.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2018