1973 MG Midget

This MG Midget was first registered in 1973 and is equipped with a 1273cc engine and has clocked just 75,330 miles since 1973. The car has had 11 previous keeps and comes with a folder filled with paperwork that extensively documents all the work completed by previous owners in that time. At some stage during the Midgets time, the car was restored with the intention of it being used for hill-climbing. Upon inspection it was soon realised that the car was in rust free condition.

With what can only be described as a nut and bolt restoration, with images documenting the process, the restoration was completed by an expert who had completed many projects including various E-types and Austin Healeys.

We can verify that the restoration was incredibly in-depth and utilises some non-standard parts, such as the 5 speed gearbox from a Ford Sierra, which is reported to improve the driving dynamics of the vehicle. The engine has also been refurbished and is now using a high compression head.

There are receipts, within the mountain of paperwork that can be found for new engine components as well as new trims, gaskets, suspension parts and so on.

As you walk around this MG, it becomes very apparent that no stone has been left un-turned in ensuring that this car is presented at its absolute best. If you were none the wiser then you would think this car has literally just rolled off the production line. The Flame Red paintwork, glistens beautifully in the sunlight with its incredibly deep and glossy shine, that looks nothing short of fantastic. Even better is that we noticed very few paint imperfections. Those of you whom appreciate good paintwork will be pleased to know that we saw no swirl marks, indicating this car has been cleaned using the proper washing techniques.

The front end is free from stone chips, that we could see and looks superb. The chrome cowling that surrounds the front bumper looks impeccable. It’s still bright and lustrous, with minimal to no pitting to report. This extends to the front grille and chrome work that surrounds the headlights. Speaking of headlights, the lenses are clear and bright also, showing no signs of fading from sunlight or old age.

The same can be said for the rest of the lenses and chrome work that can be found around the car. The model designation badges look excellent and one would assume that given their positioning on the vehicle these are the first to fall victim to imperfections. This couldn’t further from the truth as these look virtually brand new. A testament to how well looked after this vehicle has been.

The panel alignment throughout is good with no dinks or dents that we noticed.

It would appear that the car has also benefited from a new vinyl roof, which is a welcome addition as most vinyl roofs of this age tend to be past their best. There are no rips, tears or any other imperfections to note. The roof folds away with ease and all of the poppers and buttons are present.

The MG sits on 13" wheels and is finished in the correct colour way. We saw no damage to note on any of the wheels and they’re in line with the rest of the condition of the car, immaculate.

The overall condition of this MG is stunning and we would strongly recommend viewing to see how good the car is for yourself. As far as flaws go, there really is nothing to note. There is a slight chip between the NSF headlight and bonnet, but this is really the only imperfection that we could see. When the MG is not being used, it is stored in a garage where it tucked away from the harsh weather, preserving it’s delicate bodywork.

The interior continues the same theme. It would appear that the door cars, on both sides have been subject to re-trimming too. The vinyl is still tight and looks fantastic. Opening and jumping into the MG is somewhat of a magical experience as you’re instantly taken back to a much simpler time, with less electronics and your focus shifted solely to the driving experience.

The front seats have been re-trimmed in fresh black vinyl and they look spot on. We saw no signs of cracks or marks on either the drivers or passenger seats. This extends to the cushions and bolsters.

Carpet throughout the vehicle looks good with no reports of damage or them going threadbare to report.

The instruments and dials within the cockpit are as you would expect from a car of this era. You have the lever for the choke, switches for the headlights, wipers and instrument backlight. The switches and dials show some signs of patina but we feel this adds character to the little MG.

Given that these cars are notorious for corrosion, you will be pleased to hear that we saw no signs of that. It would appear that the car has been undersealed and all elements that are exposed to the ground have been painted or coated in a protective layer of underseal or similar.

Accompanying the vehicle, is the V5C plus an extensive folder which includes photographs documenting the build together with parts supply invoices.

Due to the age, this vehicle is tax free and exempt from MoT.

There are a plethora of MG Midgets out there for sale at any given time but I can say with sure fire certainty that you will not come across one that has been as comprehensively restored and looked after as this particular example, especially given the retro-fitted components this one benefits from.

We estimate this vehicle to fetch between £8,000 - £12,000.

We suspect that whomever is fortunate enough to end up with this MG will be grinning from ear to ear every single time they turn the key and hear the engine burst into life. It’s a truly fabulous example of a quirky British sports car.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with the vendor in Diss, Norfolk. To arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.