Lot 180

The Petersen Automotive Museum Auction

1979 MG Midget 1500

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$12,320 USD | Sold

United States | Los Angeles, California

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Chassis No.
G-AN6-UL/224806-G
  • An original LHD export model, delivered to California
  • Comprehensive concours-quality restoration
  • The quintessential British sports car
Addendum: Please note that due to California emissions, this vehicle must be sold to a dealer or out-of-state resident.

There is something almost indescribably fun about driving a small car . . . and we do not mean simply small, but downright TINY!

Consider the Mini, T-series MG, Bugeye Sprite, and, maybe most importantly and famously, the MG Midget. The nimble handling and sprightly four-cylinder motor, coupled with a manual gearbox, make this something truly memorable for the proper driving enthusiast. It is a car in which you feel every corner, every shift, every sensation; you feel as though you are Jim Clark driving 150 mph, though you are just taking your kid for ice cream at 35 mph!

Even among Midgets, however, one example must reign supreme and stand taller than the others . . . and that is where this car comes in. Production ended for all Midgets in November 1979, and this car is among the final series, outfitted with the 1,500-cc engine from the Triumph Spitfire which delivered greater torque and was mated to a Morris gearbox will taller gear ratios.

Treated to a comprehensive restoration, it presents like a brand-new car. We understand it was a rust-free California example, before being stripped down to bare metal and refinished to the highest possible standard with a new Robbins convertible top as well and an interior that is absolutely showroom fresh, courtesy of rebuilt seats, new upholstery door panels, and accessories. The engine was completely rebuilt, and the entire drivetrain was gone over from front to back – new piston assemblies, camshaft, filters, timing chain, valves, guides, water, fuel pumps, and so on. The carburetor and gearbox were all professionally rebuilt, and the suspension and brake systems were all addressed with the very same professionalism.

The car is nothing short of spectacular and a stunning presentation the likes of which we doubt any other Midget in the world shares. If ever there was a concours-quality restoration of an MG, this is it!