MG Midget 1500

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The Midget totally sums up the MG ethos – to make small, quick, good-handling cars at an inexpensive price.

Beginning in 1963 with a 55bhp1098cc A-series engine, it was steadily developed, front drum brakes soon giving way to discs and in the MkII model gaining improved rear suspension with semi-elliptical rear springs. In 1966 the MkIII was introduced, powered by the punchy and flexible 1275cc engine that had helped to enhance the Mini Cooper’s reputation. With 65bhp on tap the Midget was capable of snappy acceleration and speeds into the 90s.

Styling changes in 1972 saw the new Rostyle wheels housed in rounded off rear wheel arches in place of the old square ones and in 1974, the MkIV 1500 arrived. Powered by the 1493cc pushrod OHV engine from the once-rival Triumph Spitfire (which also provided the transmission), the little car was now capable of 100mph from the 66bhp motor. US legislation also ushered in rubber bumpers which increased rear ride height by two inches but gave little away in terms of handling.

Dating from August 1980, this 1500 has been extensively restored in recent years at a cost of over £5,000 and has had just one owner since 2003 with only three keepers before that, the previous owning it for 19 years. Looking cool in black with a refurbished black interior piped in white, it comes with both hard and soft tops and rides on refurbished Rostyle wheels fitted with new tyres. Said to drive beautifully with excellent handling thanks to a Spax adjustable shock absorber conversion, it has an MOT until August 2016.

Offering more smiles per mile than many much more powerful cars, these chuckable little Midgets are a hoot to drive and always make you feel as if you are going twice as fast as you really are.