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The MG Midget developed from the Austin Healey Sprite MK I launched in May 1958, with the MG Midget MK1 launched in June 1961. The only difference between the MG Midget and its stablemate the MK2 Sprite are their MG badges, trim additional chrome, chrome slat grille and slightly better interior.
What should I be looking for?
Your first consideration when shopping for an MG Midget is the condition of the bodywork. The size of the MG Midget makes any restoration a difficult task due to its small dimensions. Readily available repair panels at reasonable prices make restorations for professionals and hobbyists a godsend, however, with this in mind, check any potential purchase carefully.
Be sure to check all areas of the car, make sure all the panels are aligned, the gaps between the panels are even, there are no dents, ripples or creases in the bodywork. Keep an eye out for any body panels or areas that have different shades of paint that may cover repairs made with putty. A soft top should be noted in below average condition and the condition of the floor checked for corrosion.
Front apron and front wings
The front fender is often the first casualty in even a minor accident along with stone damage and it is important to check the seam where the front wing meets the apron. Check behind the bumper mount for signs of crash damage and also check the condition of the bumpers, especially rubber bumpers as they are expensive to replace.
The front wings tend to rust along the bottom seam where the wing meets the top of the sill panel. The area around the headlight attracts corrosion and there is also a drain hole at the bottom of the front fender lip and if it becomes blocked dirt and mud collect and rot the panel.
Gates and a post
Make sure doors have even gaps around their perimeter and are positioned correctly. A tight door that sticks at the top could be the sign of a collapsible tub body or a tub that has been repaired without support. Check that the door seals are in good condition and make sure that the window regulators work, it is especially important to check that the drainage holes in the bottoms of the doors are clean and look for rust along the bottoms of the doors. Check post A area very carefully for rust here, any problem here is difficult to repair.
windowsills
Sills are the most common area of rust and the only repair is panel replacement. To examine a sill, lie along the side of the car and shine a torch along the underside to check for corrosion holes, drain holes may be present but not always. Superficial rust on a sill can hide severe damage underneath.
hat/hood
Repair sections are available for the hood but it takes some skill to fit, any dents in the hood are also difficult to repair and you are probably better off buying a full panel.
rear wing
The top of the inner and outer wheel arch panels can corrode; square wheel arch models seem particularly prone to this. The lower rear spoiler immediately behind the door where it meets the sill is another area prone to rust. Check these areas and the rear spoiler for corrosion or body filler.
boot/trunk
Open the trunk and examine the spare tire area for signs of moisture or rust, check that the spare tire and jack are also present. Before reclosing, check the edge of the boot lid for signs of corrosion.
floor tray
Check this area thoroughly by lifting the rugs and checking the flooring underneath, the area behind the seats is prone to dirt and salt buildup.
Engine Compartment Inspection
Finally, when buying an MG Midget, the last area to check is the engine compartment. Check the engine for oil leaks, particularly around the filter housing and gaskets. Any traces of antifreeze or rust stains on the engine block could indicate water leaks. Listen for engine running, check for blowing around manifolds and between manifold and downpipe. Examine the clutch and brake master cylinder and surrounding paint for signs of fluid leaks or spills. The battery can be found at the rear of the engine compartment and must be properly secured as any spillage from the battery can lead to corrosion of the surrounding bodywork.