Lot details
Registration No: XYD253S
Chassis No: GAN6-198185G
Mot Expiry: Oct 2011

The new MG Midget of 1961 was essentially a MKII Austin Healey Sprite in a different suit of clothes and initially powered by a 948cc A-Series engine. By the time of the 1966 MKIII, the motor's capacity had increased via 1098cc to 1275cc, semi-elliptic rear springs had replaced the quarter elliptics and the front brakes were now discs. There were also wind-up windows and a superior hood. In 1972 a lower-geared Triumph steering rack was fitted, a second silencer added and the dynamo ousted in favour of an alternator. The final iteration, the MKIV, brought deformable federal bumpers allied to an increased ride height and a new engine - the 1493cc unit from the Spitfire.

The 1977 RHD Flamenco Red example offered is no ordinary Midget, reportedly having had over £25,000 lavished on it by the last owner during his fourteen-year tenure; during which time it is said to have been garaged and never driven in the wet. The majority of the upgrades were carried out by Frontline Spridget and Jacob Engineering. The `fast road' engine apparently boasts twin 1.5in SUs, Aldon electronics, electric fuel pump, Piper 285 camshaft, Vernier cam gear, high volume oil pump, large capacity alloy radiator, Kenlowe fan, stainless steel exhaust, oil cooler, K&N chrome air filters and alloy rocker cover. The result is understood to be a unit producing a very healthy 99bhp at 5,974rpm and 95 ft lb of torque at 4,860rpm and which drives, not through the standard gearbox, but a refurbished Triumph unit with overdrive. The rear springs have been lowered by one-inch and strengthened half shafts, anti-tramp bar and Panhard rod fitted. The Mini-Lite alloy wheels are shod with recent Yokohama tyres. The brakes are 9in discs operated via braided hoses.

The rear bulkhead has been professionally set back and the steering column moved forward to allow a six footer to drive in comfort. The sporting specification includes Cobra bucket seats, Willans harnesses, rollover bar, two tonneau covers, fire extinguisher, gear lever security lock, `His and Hers' jackets and an `as-new' mohair hood. Though not yet subjected to competition work, this very special, fastidiously-prepared MG should clearly be equally at home on road and track.