MG Midget 1500

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Launched in 1961 with a comparatively weedy 948cc A-Series engine, the MG Midget was constantly revised over the next two decades, going through MkI, II and III stages before finally becoming the MG Midget 1500 in 1974.

The main distinguishing features of the last model were Rostyle wheels, a more modern interior, a higher ride height and new rubber bumpers to improve crash performance for the all-important US market. To compensate for the car's added weight, a new 65bhp 1500cc engine was now standard which gave the car a top speed of just over the magic ton (101mph and 0-60 in 12.3 seconds).

Costing £1,599, it remained a strong seller right until production ceased in December 1979, by which time 72,289 examples of this last-of-the-line 1500 had found happy customers.

First registered in May 1977, this dark green 1500 has clearly been a much-cherished machine with a vast history file extending back to 1989 that would humble many far more valuable cars. This included a bodywork restoration in 1989/90 which included “3 coats red oxide, 11 undercoats, 14 top coats – more than a Rolls-Royce!” according to notes on file. In 1991 it was also fitted with an uprated gearbox with overdrive on all four ratios which greatly enhances the driving experience in modern traffic.

In 2000 it was treated to a second major bout of expenditure which included a retrim in tan leather, new carpets, new brakes, new suspension and a new hood at a cost of some £3,353. The previous owner continued this ‘money no object’ maintenance with recent work including a new clutch master cylinder; new brakes; new rear leaf springs; new stub axles; new kingpins and new engine mountings.

The history file includes 15 old MOTs back to 1996 which show that the car has always been in light, regular use, covering some 40,400 miles over the last 21 years. Said to drive as well as it looks, its last MOT expired in 2018 with no advisories recorded but this pampered Midget is being offered here at a very sensible guide today so don't miss out on a fabulous opportunity.