In Brief:

• A characterful example of the MG Midget Mark III
• Comprehensive history file, with over £16,500 worth of invoices
• Mechanically well looked after
• A solid foundation for some cosmetic restoration

Auctioneer's Notes:

A characterful example of the ever-popular MG Midget Mark III, benefitting from long-term ownership, low mileage since a replacement engine was fitted and extensive recent mechanical expenditure. The Vendor has owned the car since 2018 and reports that it runs well, while being refreshingly candid that the bodywork would benefit from cosmetic attention in a number of areas. Now classed as a Historic Vehicle, it is accompanied by an impressive history file including a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust production record certificate.

Maintenance & Condition:

Mechanically, this Midget has clearly received considerable attention during the Vendor's ownership. An Ivor Searle reconditioned engine was fitted in July 2023 at 43,339 miles, with the odometer now showing 46,372 miles, meaning the replacement unit has covered just 3,033 miles. A new clutch was fitted at the same time, while an exchange gearbox had previously been installed in August 2021. Further works include a complete Autosparks wiring harness in January 2023, carburettor work in November 2024 followed by tuning in April 2025, and a custom-made stainless-steel exhaust in August 2025. 

Recent maintenance has also included rear shock absorbers, new horns, brake work, driver's seat runners and a heavy-duty NAPA battery fitted in May 2026. The floor received welding and a repair plate during 2025, while invoices also record welding and repainting work in 2020, together with replacement bumpers, seat belts, windscreen, gaskets, mirrors, window panels and various pumps, washers and sundry components. Invoices covering work during the present ownership total in excess of £16,500.

The interior is described as clean and tidy and is fitted with a functioning CD/radio. The folding hood remains operational, although the rear quarterlight sections have cracked through repeated use and would benefit from repair or replacement. While mechanically well cared for, the Vendor advises that the bodywork requires cosmetic attention in places, making this an appealing proposition for somebody wishing to improve the presentation over time.

History:

The accompanying history file is particularly comprehensive. The Vendor purchased the MG in 2018 for £4,000, with the handwritten receipt retained, while earlier handwritten receipts record sales in 1991 for £2,400 and again in 1997 for £2,000. Significant invoices from previous ownership are also present, alongside notes recording the fitment of a starter motor in 1997, electronic ignition in 1999 and replacement of the ignition coil in 2015.

Further documentation includes historic MOT and taxation records, the original Passport to Service, MG Owners' Club literature and leaflets, printed photographs and period newspaper clippings concerning the car. Most notably, the MG is accompanied by a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust production record certificate, adding useful provenance to an already substantial history file. 

The Model:

Introduced in 1966, the Mark III represented an important evolution of the MG Midget and was powered by BMC's proven 1,275cc A-Series four-cylinder engine, coupled to a four-speed manual gearbox and driving the rear wheels. Its compact dimensions, light weight and simple mechanical layout helped establish the Midget as one of Britain's quintessential affordable sports cars.

For 1972, the Midget retained the attractive chrome-bumper styling of the earlier cars, with examples from this period associated with the distinctive rounded rear wheel arches introduced during the year. Combined with its folding soft-top, responsive handling and straightforward mechanical specification, the Midget remains an engaging and accessible route into traditional British open-top motoring.

Sale Insight:

With ownership by the current Vendor extending back to 2018, a replacement Ivor Searle engine having covered only around 3,000 miles, and documented expenditure exceeding £16,500, this 1972 MG Midget offers a strong mechanical basis for its next owner. Its extensive history file and Historic Vehicle status further add to its appeal. 

Cosmetically, there is scope for improvement, particularly to areas of the bodywork and the hood's rear quarterlight sections, and prospective buyers should therefore view the car accordingly. Nevertheless, its substantial recent maintenance, lengthy documentation and classic chrome-bumper appearance make it a usable British sports car that could be enjoyed while its presentation is progressively enhanced. Offered at No Reserve, it represents an interesting opportunity to acquire a well-documented and mechanically maintained example with further scope for cosmetic improvement.

Estimate:
No Reserve