"First introduced by the British Motor Corporation in Monte Carlo on 20th May 1958 and intended as a low-cost model, the Sprite was designed by the Donald Healey Motor Company. The low cost of £669 was achieved by using a mildly tuned version of the A Series engine and as many other components from existing cars as possible. Manufactured at the MG sports car factory at Abingdon, it was not surprising that the success of the design would lead to an MG version, which was known as the Midget. In 1969 a 'British Leyland' makeover was applied to the Sprite, consisting of matt black paint on the sills, Rostyle wheels and a plastic front grille. In 1974, to meet US federal regulations, large black plastic bumpers were added to the front and rear and the ride height was increased; an anti-roll bar was added to help with the higher centre of gravity. The A-Series engine was replaced by the 1493cc unit from the Triumph Spitfire. The last car was manufactured on 7th December 1979, after 73,899 of the final version had been produced.
This MG Midget was registered in December 1973 and presents in white with a contrasting black interior. This enthusiast owned car was a perfect lock down project and as such benefitted from the impressive list of works detailed in the file that accompanies the car. The progress of the jobs done were also recorded photographically. The list runs to nearly six pages and viewing by any potential buyer is recommended. It includes replacement of nearly all the braking system, a new stainless exhaust, the rebuilding of the suspension, servicing of the engine, the fitting of a new ignition system, the coolant system being disassembled and flushed, and the fitting of a new cylinder head, manifold and rocker cover gaskets. A de-coke was carried out and the valves lapped during the head gasket change. Offered to auction with a V5 registration document and although exempt by virtue of its age a valid MoT test certificate. Offered without reserve this MG would make an ideal first classic or be enjoyed by any enthusiast.
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