Description
An absolute cracker. Presented in virtually unmarked Saffron Yellow with Black trim and sitting on as-new Minator alloys shod with matching Toyo tyres, this stunning little car was substantially recommissioned by marque specialists, Meacam Spridgets, in 2011 since when it has benefitted from a full cosmetic restoration to a high standard. From excellent under-bonnet detailing to freshly replaced interior trim, hood and lovely chrome, this is the real deal and needs for nothing. Perfect for the warm summer days to come, the Midget drives as good as it looks with plenty of peppy performance and a rather infectious exhaust note. Come and experience it for yourself - it doesn`t disappoint on any level.
Introduced in 1961 and with production running for some 18 years, the Midget was a small, open 2-seater sports car that evolved through several incarnations. Initially fitted with a 948cc A-Series engine, early cars were very basic with no external door furniture, plastic side screens for windows and a heater came as an optional extra. In 1966, with the launch of the Mk. III, the A-Series engine had grown to 1275cc, producing around 65BHP, and some modern luxury now featured with wind-up windows, improved and updated suspension and an attached hood. In 1969 came further revisions to the model with black-painted sills, square taillights and Rostyle wheels but the biggest change came in 1972 when the previously square rear arches became rounded for the first time. These final RWA Mk. III cars (1972-74) also featured a better steering rack, borrowed from Triumph, and from 1973 onwards, an alternator replacing the outdated dynamo. Indeed, these final cars from 1972-74 are considered the most sought-after of all Midgets with everything changing from August 1974 and the introduction of oversized rubber bumpers.
Our car was registered on 1st August 1972 and supplied new to a gentleman in Glasgow. Unfortunately, we know little of it`s history thereafter until January 2011, when it was trailered into marque specialists, Meacam Spridgets at Wroughton Airfield near Swindon. Obviously very neglected, the Midget underwent what became a substantial recommissioning exercise with invoices for some 60 hours of labour and over £500 in sundry parts. From the schedule of work provided, it is apparent that Meacam went through the entire mechanical and electrical systems replacing ignition parts, brakes, hoses, oils and filters, overhauling both fuel and cooling systems and upgrading wiring as appropriate. The list is extensive and runs to some 6 pages. On 9th March, the Midget was presented for MoT and after the fitting of new Lockheed brake pads and replacement of a faulty float valve, passed with no Advisory Notes. Mileage at this point was noted as 19, 655. Annual MoT inspections up to 2020 subsequently record regular use, the MG covering between 1000-2000 miles a year. During this period, the car was cosmetically refurbished to include a full repaint in it`s original Saffron Yellow, the fitting of 13” Minator 8-spoke alloys with Toyo 165/ 70 rubber, the replacement of interior trim with original Black vinyl covers and fresh black carpets, the fitting of a new Black vinyl hood and considerable under-bonnet detailing. Other notable work (with invoices) included new suspension bushes, track rod ends and replacement of clutch slave cylinder and most recently (2022), replacement of ignition parts including spark plugs, HT leads, coil, dynamo and the fitting of a fresh battery. The Midget was last presented for MoT in November 2023 with a mileage recorded of 28, 611. Since acquiring the car, we have done very little but polish it and enjoy it.
The photographs hopefully tell the story. Bodywork and paintwork are superb with just a couple of very minor age-related blemishes, whilst alloy wheels, external trim and hood are as new. Some of the chrome has evidently been replaced whilst the original items (front bumper for example) are excellent with just minor pitting. The cabin reflects more of the same with recently replaced Black trim and matching carpets in super condition. Lift the bonnet and boot and condition is totally commensurate with the rest of the car: evidently freshly repainted and properly detailed, this is one car that has nothing to hide! Turn the key and the ever-eager 1275cc A-Series fires immediately into life with instant throttle response and a wonderful exhaust note, begging to be pushed harder and the little car moves up swiftly through the gears. Having driven many a Midget over the years, they never fail to put a smile on the face of both driver and passenger. This is no exception. Brisk performance combined with pin-sharp handling, a firm but comfortable ride and reassuringly good brakes, makes for the perfect package. On a bright and sunny Saturday morning, I took the car out for a spin across the West Dorset Downs and genuinely wanted to drive it all day. It is just lovely in all respects.
The Midget comes with a large file of bills and receipts covering the period 2011-2022, old Registration Documents and a current V5C, old MoT Certificates from 2011-2023 including a current Certificate to November 2024, a Handbook, a selection of Haynes Manuals, spare wheel, jack and hood cover. Whilst benefitting from a current MoT, the MG is naturally both MoT and road-tax exempt.
An absolute cracker. A properly sorted Midget in superb order ready for the sunshine to come.
Shore Classics is based on the West Dorset coast within easy proximity of both Weymouth and the County town of Dorchester. As classic and vintage dealers, we offer full brokerage facilities. So if you require some help and guidance with selling your classic car or motorcycle, just give us a call today.
