1964 MG Midget MKI Roadster

Description

Reviving a famous name not seen since before the War, MG introduced the Midget in 1961 as its entry-level sports car and the model proved incredibly durable, selling well over two decades alongside the bigger MGB. The original Mark I was essentially a badge-engineered version of the Austin-Healey Sprite, albeit with some unique styling touches and an A-series 948cc engine under the bonnet (later enlarged to 1098cc). The Mark II arrived in 1964, with a host of minor improvements, and this in turn became the Mark III in 1966, now with the 1275cc engine motor like that used in the Mini Cooper 'S', albeit de-tuned to 72 bhp via a reduced compression ratio of 8.8:1 so as not to outperform the more expensive MGB. Nonetheless, the Midget was a spritely performer, with a top speed in excess of 90 mph. The Midget epitomised everything that MG stood for - it was small, fast and had safe, predictable handling. Best of all, it was cheap, and many racing drivers got their first taste of motor sport behind the wheel of a Midget. Today Midgets remain a popular entry level classic British sports car, with the chrome-bumper models like this offering the best compromise between looks, equipment and driving pleasure.