MG Midget MkIV

The Midget name was revived by MG in June 1961 on a badge-engineered version of the new Austin-Healey Sprite MK II which had been introduced one month earlier. With an immensely loyal MG clientele to rely upon, Midget sales gradually overhauled its Austin-Healey cousin and following a parallel pattern of development throughout the 1960s the Midget continued in production long after the Sprite was discontinued in 1971.

The Midget 1500 (or MK IV) was launched in October 1974 and along with its big brother the MGB was immediately recognisable from its forerunners by the adoption of large black plastic bumpers front and rear as demanded by the all important US market.

Also featuring an increased ride height and a new 1493cc engine taken from its in-house arch rival the Triumph Spitfire. Extra performance given by the new 1500 engine was most welcome with a top speed of over 160 km/h at last and with minor changes such as a revised facia in August 1977 and dual circuit brakes in April 1978 the Midget continued in production until late 1979.

• 4-speed manual
• RWD