Description

1973 MG Midget

Sound little MG restored some time ago; lots spent over the years; round-arch model; the perfect starter classic

The last in the line of MG Midgets started life as a re-badged Austin Healey Sprite. A development of the famous “Frogeye”, the Sprite used a unitary body with double wishbone suspension at the front and 1/4 elliptic springs at the rear.

The first cars had rudimentary sliding side screens and were quite primitive. As time went on, improvements such as winding windows, semi elliptic rear springs, engine capacity increases from 948cc, through 1,098cc to the 1,275cc A-Series engine from the Mini Cooper S were introduced. By the time the Mk III was launched in 1966 with a proper folding hood, the car had evolved significantly.

This lasted until 1974 when major revisions were undertaken including rubber bumpers and the 1,500cc engine from the Spitfire – things were never quite the same after that.

This 1973 Midget is from that ‘sweet spot’ in the car’s development, offering relative creature comforts, the 1,275cc engine and the cheeky looks of the original. This one is also from the era of the round rear wheel arch, the prettiest of the bunch.

It comes with a file of invoices dating back to the 1990s, and has clearly had plenty spent on it over the years, notes on file totalling £3,205 spent during this period. A further £2,648 was spent between 2006-2013, with a further £564 added during 2018-2019.

It has been upgraded with a sturdy roll bar and more comfy seats from Chase MG, all supported by the detailed notes on file.

Among the items fitted in 2010 was a new clutch. Since then, the car has done very little and we note that the clutch could do with bleeding as it takes a few pumps to get it to disengage. In fact, it appears to have covered just 500 miles or so since 2005 so it would do with a general check over before use once more.

The car has had 14 owners over the last 48 years and looks solid underneath with respectable paintwork, although it isn’t going to win any trophies, but it is offered at a very sensible guide price.

This cute little Midget needs proper use and enjoyment. Prices have hardened of late on chrome bumper Midgets, so much so that they are knocking on the door of MGB values. This car offers use and improve classic motoring for those on a tight budget.

For more information – contact matthew.parkin@brightwells.com