76 Mg Midget With Hardtop, 5 Speed Conversion, Weber, And Uk Minilite Wheels. on 2040-cars

1976 MG Midget

This is one of the best driving MG Midgets around.  The engine was completely rebuilt about 16,000 miles ago and has been well maintained since.  It has had the 5-speed conversion from Moss Motors, which uses the Ford T9 gearbox, which was used in the Capri, Sierra, Merkur XR4Ti, and other Fords from the 1980’s and 1990’s.   This transmission effectively makes the driving experience closer to a 1990 Mercury Capri than a 1976 MG Midget.  However, unlike the Capri, the MG is still rear wheel drive.  Adding to the driving experience is a set of 5 new Minilite wheels, made in England, and new rubber all the way around (at least 85% left).  To top it off, the car has a new convertible top and a Smoothlines hard top. 

The car was painted “Urban Green”, which is a color used only in 2003 for the BMW Z4.  It’s a unique color that I would consider using if I repainted the car.  I added a wooden steering wheel, because I liked the looks.  I will include the original rubber one if you want it, but I couldn’t imagine anybody wanting to change it back.

The engine is a tidy 1500, which was also used in the Triumph Spitfire of the day.  I replaced the old black painted rocker cover with a nice polished alloy cover.  In addition to the 5-speed conversion, the carburetor has been converted to a Weber down draft, giving the little engine that little bit of extra push.  One downside to the 5-speed conversion is that the speedometer is not currently hooked up.  I believe a new cable is needed, but it could just need tightened.   

I have driven it on long trips three times, including a monster 800-mile weekend trip through the mountains, cruising at interstate speeds, with the top up and the top down.  I’ve driven it in the cold and snow and it performed admirably.  It has performed flawlessly every time.  It cruises like a much newer car with its lower revs from the 5 speed.  

To complete the looks of the car, I will include, on your request, an antique suitcase that I often strap to the luggage rack.  This suitcase is adorned with stickers from travels in the 50’s and 60’s, including a couple showing it has been to Cuba.  I will also include two repair manuals for you to use to keep your Midget ready to go.  I am asking a reasonable price for this vehicle when you consider the cost of all of the upgrades:

5-speed conversion from Moss Motors,

 not including the cost of labor for installation.                        $3695

5 new Minilites from Minimania.com                                                  $1868

Weber carburetor conversion, for parts alone.                          $500

Wooden steering wheel with hub,                                                 $389

Polished alloy valve cover,                                                             $90

Smoothline (Parish Plastics) hardtop,                     $1199

less parts to completely renew the top will

require in replacement parts, but it is very

useable as is.                                                      -$475

                                                                                                   $724

Engine rebuild                                                                       $3500

New leaf springs (one needs installed)                                      $250

Various other upgrades not listed,

Total cost of parts for upgrades:                                               $11,016

There are numerous other parts and upgrades like electronic distributor, CD player, new soft top, a new boot cover (not yet installed) etc.  

I've listed the car as a driver quality because the body work shows signs of an amateur restoration.  I would classify it as a 10/50.  It looks good at 10' or 50 MPH.  It's obviously not a show car, few Midgets are, particularly the later ones.  They are, however, fun to drive.  This is a great first classic.  Imagine getting into a classic roadster for the price of a ragged out Kia.

Please do not bid if you do not have the money to pay for the car or if you don't have your financing in place.  I expect a $500 deposit within 48 hours of the close of auction, and the remainder due within 1 week.  You must arrange transportation for the Midget.  I will work with your shipper to get the car loaded, but all expense and arrangement is up to you.  I will ship the title by US Mail separate from the car, unless you request that it be shipped with the shipper.  

Please ask all questions before bidding.  If you want to inspect the car or have it inspected, please contact me to arrange it before bidding.

Questions?  304-389-7732