MG Midget

The MG Midget, right, was mechanically identical to the Austin-Healey Sprite. It had the traditional MG grille and a different trim. The 'frog eye' Sprite was never badged as an MG, so the MG Midget was always one mark number behind the corresponding Austin-Healey Sprite. The Midget was always slightly more expensive and few people questioned the value of paying a little extra for the MG name.

Motor magazine tested the Mk II Midget and found it a much better car than the Mk II Sprite they tested a year or so earlier. The equivalent Mk III Sprite was, of course, identical. The MG Midget now had the 1098cc engine, wind-up windows, lockable doors and a heater. Some early Sprite enthusiasts might have objected to these innovations, however, the appeal of the car was widening to include older people and more women drivers. On the road, the new Midget was faster and handled better; but it was still a squeeze and uncomfortable for tall drivers.

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