24th Jul, 2024 13:00
Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire

https://www.handh.co.uk/auction/lot/l...

Residing in current ownership for 36 years (since 1988)
Modest mileage of just 74,500 miles from new
Benefitting from significant mechanical improvement during the vendor's ownership
Offered with a good history file
The need to comply with forthcoming US safety legislation saw MG revise the design of its Midget sportscar for the final time in 1974. Entering showrooms that October, the resultant MkIV version (as it was unofficially known) was immediately recognisable courtesy of its impact-absorbing 'rubber bumpers'. Far better integrated than the similar contrivances found on other American market cars (think Mercedes-Benz W107 SL), the weight penalty they incurred was more than offset by the adoption of a new 1500cc engine. Sourced from the Triumph Spitfire together with an all-synchromesh gearbox, it gave the Midget a notable boost in performance. Capable of over 100mph and known for its tidy handling, the MkIV was well received by the press and public alike.

Manufactured in 1977, the Midget offered was despatched on the 2nd of December that year to main agents Lookers Limited of Manchester, being registered new in early 1978. Finished from the factory in Tahiti Blue paintwork, the MG was specified from new with Rosytle wheels and features a Black interior trim, Black hood, and Black tonneau cover. Passing through five keepers during the first ten years of its life before being purchased by the vendor in 1988 with some 43,000 miles on the odometer. Retained by the vendor thereafter, the Midget is now only coming to sale due to ill health, and is offered with just some 74,500 miles from new.

Improved throughout the vendor's custodianship, ‘VVU 175S’ has received an engine overhaul that has included an unleaded cylinder head, piston rings and big end bearings, timing chain, alloy rocker cover, Kenlowe fan, fuel pump and water pump, as well as brake and clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder. Further enhanced with new stub axle assemblies, wishbone pans, drop links, and rear leaf springs, the MG has also received a braking overhaul with new brake pads and shoes, rear brake cylinders, and front calipers. Garaged throughout the vendor's ownership and reputedly used on dry days only, the MG features a stainless steel boot rack, roll bar, 1977 push button radio, stainless steel exhaust, spotlights, sun visors, double duck hood, and is accompanied by a spares package.

Offered with a good history file that comprises a BMIHT Heritage Certificate, a large collection of MOTs back to 1986, numerous previous invoices, owner’s handbook, tax discs, and a current V5C document. Temptingly offered without reserve, the MG is offered from long-term ownership and with modest mileage.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Cheetham
[email protected]
07538 667452