1968 MG Midget Mk3 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 similar to 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 out perform the more expensive MGB. Nonetheless, the Midget was a spritely performer, with a top speed in excess of 90 mph. One big improvement was the addition of a proper folding hood rather than the somewhat crude item found on earlier Midgets, which had to be stowed when the top was removed. 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 later chrome-bumper models like this offering the best compromise between looks, equipment and driving pleasure.