MG Midget 1961-79 Road Test Portfolio by BROOKLANDS

In its 20 years of production, the Midget underwent hundreds of changes, and was produced in five distinct Marks. Mark Is had 948cc engines until 1962, and more powerful 1098cc types (complemented by disc front brakes) thereafter. Rear suspension changes and a power increase created the Mk. II models in 1964, and the Mk. III arrived in 1966 with a larger 1275cc engine. Rostyle wheels and the chrome grille gave way to a black one while occupants benefited from reclining seats. After January 1972, it had round rear wheel arches, but these did not last and the squared-off arches came back in 1974 on the Mk. 1500 Midget. Much to the disgust of traditionalists, this had black plastic bumpers to meet US regulations, a raised ride height, and a new 1493cc engine borrowed from the Midget’s long-term rival - the Triumph Spitfire. The last Midget was built in November 1979, by which time there was no doubt that the car was outdated. It was still fun though, and that element of fun has never diminished. It is what has made the Midget such a popular classic car today - popular enough for British Motor Heritage to see commercial advantage in producing complete new Midget bodyshells from the original tooling so that enthusiasts can rebuild worn-out cars to as-new condition.
Included are road and comparison tests, new model reports and updates plus full specifications and performance data. Models covered: Mk. 1, Mk. 2, Mk. 3, Mk. 1500. A total of 160 fully illustrated pages.