Why the MG Midget is the best & most reliable vintage British sportscar you can own. In-depth review

Автокөліктер мен көлік құралдары

The MG midget is in my opinion the best classic British sportscar you can own. Its reliable, its easy to work on and not to mention its the most fun you can have with 4 wheels. Having owned this car for several years I figured I would do a video and in depth review.
#mg#britishsportscar#mgmidget

Пікірлер: 207

  • @itekani
    @itekani2 жыл бұрын

    That's the best version of the Midget IMHO. The best drivetrain and the best looks with the round wheel arches in the back.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Agreed. I'm a big sucker for the round arches.

  • @MilesCobbett

    @MilesCobbett

    10 ай бұрын

    I had a 73 too.

  • @UberLummox

    @UberLummox

    7 ай бұрын

    @@SirDrifto Well so what year is this one? I don't think you said. "67-ish?

  • @BLTV_Photoshop
    @BLTV_Photoshop7 ай бұрын

    In 1969, I bought a used '67 Midget. It was love at first sight. It still is the mot pleasurable car I've ever driven.

  • @mgguygardening
    @mgguygardening2 жыл бұрын

    Very nice car! As a 1974.5 MGB owner, I have to agree that these "less expensive" British sports cars can be very reliable as long as you keep up maintenance. And, as you state, price of parts are very reasonable. I have spent little money on mine in the 5 years I've owned it, other than aesthetic upgrades that weren't necessary but I wanted them. Thanks for the video!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    11 ай бұрын

    That's a great car choice. Enjoy!

  • @another3997
    @another3997 Жыл бұрын

    The beauty of these old MGs is that they were underpinned by fairly humdrum technologies at the time. The same basic running gear you'd find in Austin's ordinary family cars etc, so whilst not exotic, they were fairly robust, well proven parts. The A series was a little gem. All shoehorned in to a petite sports car and tweaked to make it perform better, to be fun and yet affordable too. Yours is rather lovely... I'm a bit jealous! 😁

  • @frglee
    @frglee Жыл бұрын

    Always nice to see this classic little sports car being well looked after and being well looked after. When I was a kid back in the 70s, there were lots of these on the road in the UK - a popular and fun little car for the rugged individualist of all ages that didn't cost a fortune to buy, run and maintain - many owners did their own servicing as it was pretty simple. Very much a car to take out for a drive just for the pleasure of it on a sunny day, along our undulating and twisting little roads, through the green British countryside maybe to a village pub for lunch somewhere. Sadly like most cars of that era, they rusted away in our climate, especially with road salting in the Winters. But in drier climes they lasted much longer and indeed do make a practical classic car to run, all parts being still available half a century on, and as you note, eminently affordable.

  • @richarddamico9894
    @richarddamico989410 ай бұрын

    My first car was a 1965 Spitfire, after that, I had 14 different Midgets, from a 1971 to a 1977. The 1500 engines were troublesome, the 1295s were the best. Even drove home in a blizzard in Massachusetts, car did not let me down. Enjoy it!

  • @Remainunnamed2

    @Remainunnamed2

    3 ай бұрын

    Wait why were the 1500s troublesome? What were some of the problems?

  • @richarddamico9894

    @richarddamico9894

    3 ай бұрын

    Mostly all the emission regulations. Starved the engine. And British Leyland was going through some quality control problems

  • @joesjunkgarage
    @joesjunkgarageАй бұрын

    Absolutely one of my favorite MG videos!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Ай бұрын

    Thanks for watching!

  • @JCisJD
    @JCisJD4 ай бұрын

    And I would love to come over and take one across the states and I think you have just inspired me. The round wheel arches are definitely the best!! I had a 1500 , twin SUs. And the engine and carbs never gave me any problems, could pull away easily in second. And yes great MPG

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    4 ай бұрын

    Please do!

  • @rob-nb7oc
    @rob-nb7ocАй бұрын

    I had your car's twin brother, a 1969 Austin-Healey Sprite. I installed a 13' padded leather steering wheel and a Stebro exhaust. It was my first sports car, and I wish I still owned it.

  • @JCisJD
    @JCisJD4 ай бұрын

    I had one 30 years ago . And I would totally agree with everything you have said. They really are a good, fun , reliable British classic. As I'm in the UK the rust was an issue but yes a joy to drive 😜. They really do feel quick . And it runs on rails.....

  • @bethmichaud7321
    @bethmichaud7321 Жыл бұрын

    👏👏👏so much pleasure within this MG video! My MGB GT 1974 was a keeper for years. A dear friend accidently backed into my MG, with a very large diesel truck. Totaled, years ago. You produced a great video, including your Paw Pal! Thank you, sincerely delighted!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching!

  • @MrBluoct
    @MrBluoct11 ай бұрын

    The panning over to your pup grooving on the ride and the wind was classic

  • @donjames5761
    @donjames57618 ай бұрын

    thats a beautiful car. my grand father left me his 72 mg midget i love it so much so unique so cool to drive

  • @snarfusmaximus
    @snarfusmaximus2 жыл бұрын

    I once lusted after a Triumph TR6 but I ended up getting a 1968 MG Midget. No regrets whatsoever. I've had it now for four years and it always puts a massive grin on my face when I drive it. Every gear change brings a feeling of satisfaction and the sound of the exhaust burbling, popping and farting as I engine brake down a hill is just pure magic!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    I think you made a great choice

  • @jeffhildreth9244

    @jeffhildreth9244

    2 жыл бұрын

    Snarf.... I wanted a Triumph for years,, until my friend bought and restored a TR6 . After I drove it..the best I can say is .. industrial. I will keep my 1963 MGB.

  • @Tourist1967

    @Tourist1967

    11 ай бұрын

    A Midget would be a hell of a lot cheaper too.

  • @racketman2u

    @racketman2u

    11 ай бұрын

    @@jeffhildreth9244 Goodonyer; The MGB is a very stable handling car compared to the TR6, but thats the end of it. The TR6 is faster, better looking , and has a proper woodgrain dashboard; it even sounds better!

  • @jeffhildreth9244

    @jeffhildreth9244

    11 ай бұрын

    @@racketman2u I spent hundreds of hours working on my friend's TR6. What an, archaic, absurd, engineering nightmare. It brought back memories when I worked for British Motors of Monterey, Calif 68-72... and worked on these when the local Triumph dealer could not fix them. To each his own. I concur they are good looking but that's where it ends for me. I would rather have a TR 3 than a TR 6. Cheers.

  • @Johnnygequinunk
    @Johnnygequinunk Жыл бұрын

    My first road car was a custom 1967 Midget. It was set up for rally racing. Headers, duel tuned exhaust electric fuel pump , positive traction rear end and extra hella lights and an upgraded stereo for its time. Mine also had a different air cleaner with better intake. I miss that car.

  • @DeidresTravelAdventures
    @DeidresTravelAdventuresАй бұрын

    I loved this video! Just a man and his dog enjoying his beautiful British sports car 😊 And I loved seeing it next to the the vintage planes too

  • @madalynmcgoun8066
    @madalynmcgoun806611 ай бұрын

    Thanks for a great video. I just purchased a red 1977 Midget; having it shipped from Maryland to Florida. Can't wait to drive her. My 1st car was an early 64 Sprite, with screw on windows and no door handles. Also, had to completely remove top and frame and store in boot. Really a pain, but I loved that car. So looking forward to driving and enjoying my "new" Midget. PS. You're so right about driving beside a semi. Talk about taking your life in your hands. (Still loved it).

  • @davidbarker7030
    @davidbarker70302 жыл бұрын

    I agree it's a great car. I have a '71 Midget (4th owner, I think) and it's easy to work on, easy to recognize issues, and fun to drive. I also keep away from Interstate highways - too terrifying. The defroster doesn't work well, so I avoid driving in the rain. It will rust easily, so I keep it off treated roads. But I'll drive with the top down in freezing weather; I just dress like a skier. And I'm always prepared to wave as if I'm in a parade. Kids and old dudes like me love this car!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    They really are great cars

  • @ericcriteser4001
    @ericcriteser4001 Жыл бұрын

    I sure do love my B. Always kinda low-key wanted a Midget. MGs really are great cars.

  • @rogerking7258
    @rogerking725811 ай бұрын

    I have a 1958 Frogeye, which believe it or not is basically the same car. Same underpinnings, engine and transmission. Yes the ones in your Midget are updated versions, and your rear suspension is more sophisticated, but the basic structure is the same. It's really just the external panels that are different. My Frogeye only has 948cc with around 45bhp, but it's significantly lighter than yours due to the absolutely basic interior trim, lack of boot lid, etc, so even that power is more than adequate to keep up with modern traffic to around 75mph.

  • @markcook3570
    @markcook357011 ай бұрын

    Had a 72 Midget in my younger yrs. I now own a Tr-250....Love it....

  • @manaphyonfire
    @manaphyonfire2 жыл бұрын

    Fantastic video, I have my eyes on a midget myself, as a spring project for the summer. This video may have convinced me to take the leap.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    You can go wrong with a MG :)

  • @Swampth1ng
    @Swampth1ng2 жыл бұрын

    I have a plymouth 4sp muscle car and recently have had an opportunity to look over a 76 mg and the differences between the two are amazing. I immediately started to like the mg when I put the top down, it's roadster style ride is amazing. It runs so smooth like its new. I have to buy this car. I knew it when I drove it. It's definitely a happy feel good sunny day relaxed cruise kinda car and I love it. It's gets alot of attention.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    I think a Plymouth is pretty cool too

  • @MarksWheels
    @MarksWheels2 жыл бұрын

    Great video! I love my MG and i can see that you do too. Such great little, underestimated cars

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    They really are great little cars.

  • @jplacroix461
    @jplacroix4612 жыл бұрын

    Love it!!!! absolute beauty. I have a 1275 also which I'm finishing getting sorted. Can't wait to drive it. Nice exhaust note as well.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    What year is yours?

  • @jplacroix461

    @jplacroix461

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SirDrifto My old English white MKIII Midget is registered as a 1969 but must have been a very late 69 model or early 1970 as it has the split rear bumper like the 1970, but the normal 1969 front bumper and stainless steel grille. It also sports the earlier 1969 heater box setup, but lacks the stainless side trim and bonnet center spear trim seen on earlier MKIII's . I've heard that the factory did occasionally use up available parts on the production line between model year tweaks??? Also mine sports the solid steel disc wheels with dog dish hubcaps. I've been restoring it for the past couple of summers, and just need to bleed the brakes/clutch master, and tune the carbs a bit more for road worthiness. Cheers JP

  • @angrybreadbox
    @angrybreadbox8 ай бұрын

    Good to see more on here I have a 71b , 71 midget!

  • @snapz131964
    @snapz1319645 ай бұрын

    I owned a 1972 L reg BBO528L Midget in old English White, I sold it to buy a camera and even though I have had a fantastic career in photography, I absolutely regret ever selling the greatest, most fun, classic, unique, wonderful car I have Ever owned; I still crave for my beautiful baby!!

  • @amandafletcher2577
    @amandafletcher25779 ай бұрын

    I have just watched your Video your MG Midget is the Perfect little Sports Car...I live in England near the Essex & Suffolk Coast and always Dreamed of an MG ever since I had a ride in one when I was 19....iam 59 this year and now in a position where my Dream could become 'True'....the White model is Lovely so iam on the Look Out....Thanks for all the info..Happy Driving, Amanda 😊

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    9 ай бұрын

    You need to get one. Where you live sounds like perfect mg driving

  • @gordonblank6845
    @gordonblank6845 Жыл бұрын

    I got T Boned on the drivers side December 7th 1983 in downtown Phoenix. Totaled but I walked away. Sad to see Midget #2 go. I had 2 more over the years. I replaced a wheel bearing in Downtown Salt Lake City. These are so easy to work on. Thanks for the memories.

  • @gregberning9743
    @gregberning97434 ай бұрын

    I have one similarly modified. Old style steering wheel, tail lights, front turn signals, side marker lights removed, etc. All minor details that enhance the simplicity of the car.👍

  • @JerryMotorsport
    @JerryMotorsport2 жыл бұрын

    Totally agree that these cars are such great driver's cars. Love competing in ours! Lovely example and I did laugh when I got your number plate fun. Traction control and ABS provided by driver skill. Same engine as the mini, but not as powerful as the Cooper as MG didn't want the Midget to be faster than their flag-ship MGB. Happy driving!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad you got the plate. They really are drivers cars.

  • @j.patrickmoore9137
    @j.patrickmoore91374 ай бұрын

    My oldest brother bought a used MGB when he came back from Vietnam. My next older brother bought a 73 Midget, and I bought a 79 Midget. Associating "MG" and "reliable" never occurred to me. The joke about the Mazda Miata is that it's an MG that runs. But, the Midget is a fun car to drive! My brother's was like it was an extension of myself. The 79 had the higher suspension and wasn't the same driving feel.

  • @patrickhite3026
    @patrickhite3026 Жыл бұрын

    I owned two of them..Wonderful, dependable classics..Once had a fuel pump go out between Nashville ( home) & Daytona( home) As luck would have it i had some J.B Weld..& was rolling within the hour...Then there was the engine removal for the clutch replacement( i was 20)..Say what you will MGs & " hippie" vans were my culture & it was the greatest era in history, music to motors..Allman bros to Led Zeppelin, MGs to Ford Econolines & Cadillacs..We really did have it all..🍄

  • @patrickhite3026

    @patrickhite3026

    Жыл бұрын

    That was so nice I'll give myself a thumbs up..

  • @dtruth5769
    @dtruth5769 Жыл бұрын

    Great video. Thanks. Looking to buy one. Are any years better than others? Any specifics to check out when buying one?

  • @jamesodwyer1631
    @jamesodwyer1631 Жыл бұрын

    It's beautiful and has a lot of understated class

  • @michaelgale2324
    @michaelgale23247 ай бұрын

    They are really fun to drive. Had one when I was 20 years old . Now drive a 1970 X Hill climb 1275. Bumpers off, roll bar on, power brakes, oil coolers plus a Moss super charger. Very light , very noisy. very quick. However I am sure the doors were bigger on the first one I had 57 years ago! Mike UK.

  • @JCisJD
    @JCisJD4 ай бұрын

    And I would love to come over and take one across the states and I think you have just inspired me. The round wheel arches are definitely the best!!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    4 ай бұрын

    Wonderful!

  • @paulbryan5685
    @paulbryan56855 ай бұрын

    I have a 1962 Midget. Got from Stepdad he bought in 74. A blast to drive!! Saving for disc brakes and knock off conversion. Looking to update from 948cc

  • @mrmark8603
    @mrmark86038 ай бұрын

    I love Midgets. I have an MGB, but miss my Midget.

  • @camoflagedcrap8082
    @camoflagedcrap80822 жыл бұрын

    I’ve been looking at one of these to buy and I think this video just solidified my decision.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Just did 600 miles with mine.

  • @mentonish
    @mentonish2 жыл бұрын

    Happy memories, my first car mg midget 1966, not fast but what a fun car.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    They really are a blast to drive

  • @simonbarker2567
    @simonbarker2567 Жыл бұрын

    Looks awesome! Enjoy it!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    It's been an awesome car

  • @Learnmoretoday59
    @Learnmoretoday592 жыл бұрын

    The white exterior paint looks great. Nice car.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! I try and wax it regularly 👍

  • @novaprime9394
    @novaprime939423 күн бұрын

    I actually own a 1969 mg midget with a 1275cc engine and currently working on getting it road ready again

  • @Proud_Texan
    @Proud_Texan9 ай бұрын

    I miss my 1975 & 1979 MG Midget, Special edition soooo much. Yeah, they both had electrical issues, but very easy to work on.

  • @eltonlovell9898
    @eltonlovell98982 жыл бұрын

    Had 3 of the later midgets - great fun to drive!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    Like a go kart!

  • @cdjhyoung
    @cdjhyoung Жыл бұрын

    I owned this exact year and model Midget. Loved the car to death. Trouble free? Not by a long shot. Brakes are tiny, but work. But they also have a relatively short life span. Expect to do the brakes about every 15,000 miles. The front calibers are a bear to bleed by yourself, have beer and a friend available when you put them back together. The fuel pump is notorious for failing when most inconvenient. If your are lucky, it will only be a corroded electrical ground. If not, you're going to learn how to rebuild an MG fuel pump. Parts are available. The carb bodies are pot metal and tend to corrode. They can be rebuilt. Keep them in balance, preferably you can find someone with experience to show you how. These cars are small, designed to fit a 1950's sized English young man around town. If your personal dimension are more than 5'7" and 160 lbs, plan on wearing this car, not riding in it. The engine itself is bullet proof. I had mine up to 94 also, but I'm glad I had four open lanes of black top when I did, the car wandered badly at that speed. The Midget offers the most smiles per gallon of any car I've ever touched. If I didn't live in the rust belt, and weigh 250lbs. I'd have another one in heart beat.

  • @malcolmh5736
    @malcolmh5736 Жыл бұрын

    Beautiful MG! Thanks for sharing your experience. I’m seriously considering getting my 1st MGB potentially somewhat soon, if I can find a good match. I was looking at a 1980 MGB limited edition with only 26k miles and an other one is a 1980 Vamillion Orange in absolute mint condition with only 10k miles on it but that one is expensive but we’ll see. Oh, and I HATE when anyone slams my car door! I feel you!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    you really can't go wrong with an MGB

  • @mbrant4973

    @mbrant4973

    10 ай бұрын

    Love my '77 B as well. So many talk about the difference in the rubber bumper vs. chrome bumper. I personally like the rubber bumper, but love Sir Driftos split chrome bumper which I believe was only available one year on the B

  • @mypugsdad5366
    @mypugsdad5366 Жыл бұрын

    They are good little cars. Parts are easy to get and they are fairly reliable too.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    Very true! 👍

  • @dontevenworyboutit
    @dontevenworyboutit2 жыл бұрын

    Holly cow 94mph u must have been over 7 grand on the tack man ur crazy

  • @woodydroneson
    @woodydroneson2 жыл бұрын

    Always loved the MG Midget when I was a young in the UK, the engines are so easy to get running even without specialist equipment and just using ears to get the timing right Lol The SU Carbs just keep the oil level up and replace the needles and valves, set up and good to go :) Love old cars and Manual Gears ;)

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    They are a blast to drive.

  • @larryayres4592
    @larryayres45928 ай бұрын

    I had an MGB, which was reliable. My girlfriend liked it, and before talking to me, bought a midget. Every time it rained she would be calling me up to come and push her stalled car out of a puddle because the idiot who designed it put the distributor half way up the side of the block, on a very low car. I'm told that you can buy a rubber boot to protect the distributor, but she didn't. The fuel pump was also located in a place where it would easily get flooded and stop working. For a car from a country with lots of rain it is amazing that they were late to put roll up windows on sports cars and that they had designed ignition and fuel systems so poorly for their climate. Of all my British sports cars, the XKE and my girlfriends midget were the least reliable. My MGTD, MGB and Healy 3000 were the most reliable.The Healy's were especially robust.

  • @terrybrown7601
    @terrybrown7601 Жыл бұрын

    Looks best with the trunk luggage rack ...I had a green 72 with saddle brown interior in 74 ...my brother ruined the clutch 3 days after I bought it when he slid off a snow covered road into the ditch ....burned the clutch out trying to get the car unstuck ....took weeks to get the parts ...costs abt $300 ... I loved it ...and my brother never drove it again

  • @Compo67
    @Compo672 жыл бұрын

    Love Nugget the dog. Especially when the MG gets a speed up!😁

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    He likes to go fast 🤣

  • @americanpatriot2422
    @americanpatriot24222 жыл бұрын

    Outstanding video and presentation. Very nice Midget. In my opinion I prefer the MGB, it is way better than a Midget! I may be a little bias. :) I have always had a MGB since I was 15. My very first car was a 1967 MGB. A gift from my parent. I presently own 6 fully restored MGBs 68, 71, 79, 79 Limited Edition, 80, 80 Limited Edition. In addition I just started the restoration of a 68 MGC GT.

  • @jeremymasterson5818

    @jeremymasterson5818

    Жыл бұрын

    My first car was a '63 B. It was 12 years old (only 4 years younger than I was) when I got it and pretty beaten up. wooden floorboards, broken tach and no second gear. Pure joy for $350.00! The absence of a working tach and no 2nd gear led to an early engine change (The B has a really low 1st gear compared to its rather tall 3rd...) This was followed by no less than 5 transmissions and 3 engines (and a tach) over the next couple of years as I learned both my limits as well as that of the B. This set the ground work for the future restoration of a '72 XJ6 and on into a career of car, boat and now antique carriage restorations.

  • @americanpatriot2422

    @americanpatriot2422

    Жыл бұрын

    @@jeremymasterson5818 Cool, great experience and story. These cars are a joy to work/tinker with. Most folks don't understand this and call them unreliable and claim you can't get parts. Not for me. Thanks Luis

  • @AnAmericanCouple
    @AnAmericanCouple2 жыл бұрын

    We have put 40K miles all over the US in our little 73. we started a travel blog about our adventures in it. We recently built a micro teardrop camper to pull behind it instead of tent camping. It's a lot of fun but the 69HP just doesn't cut it in the mountains. We just took it all apart and are converting it to a Miata drivetrain. it has not been easy but hopefully worth it in the long run. I put the "Union Jack" from wish in the same pace as yours. See you on the road! Glenn and Jane An American Couple on KZread

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    That is very cool!

  • @erik_dk842

    @erik_dk842

    Жыл бұрын

    Heresy

  • @beliver468
    @beliver468 Жыл бұрын

    Nice video..I just bought a72 .. what type of fuel do you recommend? Reg, leaded, unleaded ?

  • @StanleyZurawski
    @StanleyZurawski Жыл бұрын

    I'm looking to buy one this summer and you just fucking inspired me so much

  • @rustyturner431
    @rustyturner43111 ай бұрын

    This version of the Midget is THE quintessential small sports car (VERY small), but with decent weather protection and MG's superior quality (as compared to the TR Spitfire). I dunno about taking one cross-country, as you'd need to be a true wind-in-the-face guy and fairly patient, but reliability in a well-maintained car wuld not be a problem. Pity it never got an all-synchro box, but the 1275 is a superior unit to the Triumph 1500, and much more tunable. I traded a guy out of a '67 model that had an alloy head, tubing headers and a single Weber (this was many years ago) and kept the car for almost 4 years as a fun sunny day ride. My daughter learned to drive on it, sparing my more expensive cars from the experience. These days, I'm an old man, so getting in and out of this thing would be a chore, but I do have some fond memories...which is more than I can claim from the two lambo Muiras I owned about the same time.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    11 ай бұрын

    Did you like the Muira?

  • @erichaskell
    @erichaskell11 ай бұрын

    I owned a 67 Sprite in 1967 and on long enough straight roads I would hold the gas pedal down which would eventually peg the tachometer and speedometer which was how fast? Never knew but the front "felt" so light I thought I could turn the wheel and nothing would happen. I was not quite that stupid. Not quite. The car was very trashed by 19,000 miles, entered the military in 1969, left it to my Dad to wholesale. Never, ever wanted another.

  • @jeremymasterson5818
    @jeremymasterson5818 Жыл бұрын

    I enjoyed your video. Great car in beautiful condition. About the only "con" I could add is that, as a person over 6 feet tall, I simply don't fit comfortably in it. I had a '63 MGB which was very roomy by comparison. In the time I owned my B I spent a considerable amount of time scrounging through junk yards for parts. I encountered an inordinate number of similar cars (Midgets, B's, TR4's, even the odd Datsun 1600) wherein the previous owners had shoe-horned in a small block V8. Undoubtedly this would have made them into a pocket rocket of some capability but invariably, the reason they were in the scrap heap was a very deep "U" shaped crumple in the front end. The added weight to the front end had spoiled the handling just as much as the added horsepower had increased the top speed. The result was catastrophic understeer leading to shunts off into the trees or utility poles. As you have pointed out, the weight, horsepower, gearing and suspension of these cars were so well balanced as to provide a great driving experience.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    I should do a video series "will they fit" and its just tall people trying to fit in small cars 🤣

  • @jeremymasterson5818

    @jeremymasterson5818

    Жыл бұрын

    @@SirDrifto I was disappointed to find i couldn't fit into a Mazda Miata either. The top of the windshield frame is right in my line of view even with the seat fully set to the rear. I had an uncomfortable experience with a Midget one winter. It was driven regularly by the secretary to the BL dealership where I was working. She was under 5' tall. I had to move her car once in the middle of winter (top up of course) Without thinking ahead, I dropped down into the driver's seat wearing my outdoor gear and winter boots. I found myself so tightly wedged into the car that I couldn't reach the seat travel bar under the front of the seat. I struggled for some minutes until I could reach the door lever to open the door again giving me a little more space to reach under the seat. The only other time I felt so claustrophobic in a car was in Super 7 replica with the roof up.

  • @SONOFADBAG

    @SONOFADBAG

    Жыл бұрын

    Would these be very comfortable for a heavier set but not very tall person?

  • @haroldkreye8770
    @haroldkreye8770 Жыл бұрын

    Magnificent body lines.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    Agreed!!

  • @juliagratacosicamos5054
    @juliagratacosicamos50542 жыл бұрын

    I have eyes on one!, to go to the Amalfi Coast, my question is: how many miles till the tank is empty? Good video btw!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you. I get about 34mpg on the highway with mine

  • @lightowler111
    @lightowler1112 жыл бұрын

    Nice car and great roads to drive her on , that steering wheel looks like its from an earlier model. I have a 73 RWA

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Good eye it sure is. And thank you. What color is your 73

  • @lightowler111

    @lightowler111

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SirDrifto Mines Red, love the wire wheels wish I had them on mine. if you parked next to a Ferrari you would get more looks and smiles cheers

  • @80sDweeb
    @80sDweeb Жыл бұрын

    The Midget and the MGB are epic sports cars.

  • @tuxdrummer
    @tuxdrummer11 ай бұрын

    Just got my first Midget! I'm 6' 2" new steering wheel is the first.

  • @RobertLevitPhD
    @RobertLevitPhD2 ай бұрын

    Had a new one in 1970. Had a lot of cars since then, but maybe I will buy a refurbished one as my "last car".

  • @MrSubielove
    @MrSubielove Жыл бұрын

    The natural habitat of this car is the british back road with lots of twistees. Or in a u.s. chill town. Great machine i'd own one if i can afford one and it will be my daily.

  • @freddyloper813
    @freddyloper8132 жыл бұрын

    Beautiful car in White.Theirs a beautiful green 75 on the market here for 7500. What's gas mileage like? My Dad had a spitfire all growing up so it would be fun to own this.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    The 1275 gets amazing mileage. Around 35mpgs

  • @markbeard518
    @markbeard5182 жыл бұрын

    That is one cool dog!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    He really is

  • @DjNikGnashers
    @DjNikGnashers9 ай бұрын

    I worked for a classic car parts business, and dealt with hundreds of customers each week, who owned MG's, Triumphs, Rovers, Land Rovers, Jaguars, Range Rovers, Austin, etc. None of the MG's or Triumphs were any better than any other, it's all down to how they are cared for and maintained. MG midgets, MGB's F/TF, Triumph TR2/3/4/5/6/7 Stag, Spitfire, GT6, dolomite, toledo, Herald, vitesse, 2000 all had their own pro's and cons, none were perfect.

  • @adoreslaurel
    @adoreslaurel2 жыл бұрын

    I used to have an MGB [for 10 years] but after driving my cousins Midget, i found it a more enjoyable car to drive.

  • @rayjvify

    @rayjvify

    Жыл бұрын

    Dittos !

  • @notwocdivad
    @notwocdivad Жыл бұрын

    There are still Auto races in the UK for cars using the BMC (British Motor Corporation) A Series engine, Usually the 1275 but bored out to around 1380cc, Look on KZread for GOODWOOD REVIVAL or The WESTLAKE CUP

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Жыл бұрын

    That sounds incredible 🤘

  • @andrewwhenkel
    @andrewwhenkel2 жыл бұрын

    Love the video... I need this headlight/Foglight setup for my MGB..... any referrals would be appreciated

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    I ebayed a pair of vintage fog lights. $30

  • @tyronemar
    @tyronemarАй бұрын

    Fok!! Now I want one. Nice ride.

  • @Estebanserrano96
    @Estebanserrano962 жыл бұрын

    Sweet ride!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @douglasgreen437
    @douglasgreen43711 ай бұрын

    There is a company in the UK that makes a kit to convert the engine to a twin cam using a used BMW K1200 motorcycle head...

  • @davidsnipes7297
    @davidsnipes7297Ай бұрын

    Nice video. One question, how tall can a guy be and still fit in this car? I'm 6'-2" 34" leg... I can't find anyone that shows or illustrates the leg room ... thx.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    Ай бұрын

    I’ll do a video on that!

  • @johnhpianoman
    @johnhpianoman2 жыл бұрын

    Fair play getting it to 94mph 😂 got mine to 91, terrifying!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Things move by quite fast at those speeds lol

  • @jeremymasterson5818

    @jeremymasterson5818

    Жыл бұрын

    Top up for highest top speeds!

  • @acrock21
    @acrock21 Жыл бұрын

    wow that is one fine example!

  • @timrobinson2984
    @timrobinson2984Ай бұрын

    glad you love it

  • @jeffhildreth9244
    @jeffhildreth92442 жыл бұрын

    Excellent video. Currently helping a friend refurb a Midget.. similar to yours with the full arch rear wheel wells. We will be installing a completely overhauled , pumped up 1275 with a NISSAN 5 speed gear box. Yours appears to be a 1970 with the split rear bumpers. Congrats on keeping the SU carbs, most reliable and simple carb yet made. Fools install the downdraft Weber.. never. Inappropriate.. and inefficient and a real pain to dial in. They are not plug and play though advertised and sold that way. A waste of money, image before substance. Yuppie junk.. looks good and doesn't work. Cool exhaust, very nice interior exterior, ... and a sensible daily driver. The 1275 is the best engine of the 948, 1098, 1275 series. .. the 1500 was a Triumph Spitfire smog motor... avoid.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    I bet that 5 speed will be a dream

  • @erik_dk842

    @erik_dk842

    Жыл бұрын

    Nissan built both A and B series engines under license and improved them. The days when you could find good Japanese rear wheel drive gearboxes at any junkyard are long gone, and any modern rear wheel drive gearbox is much too big for a Midget.

  • @jeffhildreth9244

    @jeffhildreth9244

    Жыл бұрын

    @@erik_dk842 Well aware of both, engine in boneyards and A and B motors under license. Been at this since 1964. Have owned 130 cars 30 of which were British. Spent many years working at an official BMC dealership in the 60s and 70s. We were the agents for Rolls, Bentley, Jag, Aston ,Austin, Mini Cooper, Morris, Lotus, MG, etc. .3 professional decades in the biz to include Serv Mgr Mazda Honda dealership 4 years..etc. Parts and Service Director for 2 Nissan dealerships (simultaneously)East Bay SF Cal. Factory rep (District Mgr) Mazda Mtrs Am. 1976-1983 Nor Cal Nev Utah, , Factory rep (Field Service Mgr Nor Cal) Mercedes-Benz of No Am. , Field Mgmnt Training Mgr BMW of No America, same later for Volvo.

  • @noscwoh1

    @noscwoh1

    10 ай бұрын

    All true, but if you have the US version of the 1500 with a Stromberg, the Weber conversion makes sense. The Nissan 5 speed is getting rare, but a Laycock overdrive fits (barely) with a little bit of tunnel tweaking. I loved my Midget.

  • @jeffhildreth9244

    @jeffhildreth9244

    10 ай бұрын

    US 1500 is Spitfire garbage. Not even worth installing a Weber.

  • @andyglazar716
    @andyglazar7162 жыл бұрын

    LOL! You’re killing me!

  • @chrisevans8308
    @chrisevans8308 Жыл бұрын

    I love my 72.

  • @chrisevans8308

    @chrisevans8308

    Жыл бұрын

    I bought a 72 2 yrs ago. ( my father had them when I was growing up) I’m staring to daily drive it however it’s not prefect but don’t look to bad. I found a 73 on market place that’s completely disassembled the body is sandblasted down and primer and is in perfect condition. $1500 if I only had a place to store it and work on it.

  • @racketman2u
    @racketman2u11 ай бұрын

    I loved my Spridget, they are a lot of fun to drive, but it was a) cramped, and b) underpowered. My Brit car of choice would be a Triumph GT6 with a TR6 engine in it, faster, smoother, roomier. The trouble is I know I'd have to rebuild the rear with Datsun diff and driveshafts, because all the Triumphs have weak transmissions.

  • @MilesCobbett
    @MilesCobbett10 ай бұрын

    It can do a u-turn in a 30 ft wode street :)

  • @MarcelaR-dh1ok
    @MarcelaR-dh1ok3 ай бұрын

    Purchased one new in 76...3500$, and another in 79...check the gas and fill the oil

  • @starzanhorse4758
    @starzanhorse47582 жыл бұрын

    SU carbs are killer! Have one on my Harley. I’m buying a 75 midget

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Great carbs!

  • @TheOneWhoSimps
    @TheOneWhoSimps2 жыл бұрын

    Is that a steering wheel cover, if so which one?

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Not sure it's been on since I got it

  • @johnmohanmusic
    @johnmohanmusic3 ай бұрын

    I am curious about your license plate! I have never seen a "USA" license plate. What's that about??? By the way, I had a 1974 Midget I bought in early Spring 1979. I wish I still had it!

  • @MilesCobbett
    @MilesCobbett10 ай бұрын

    The MG motto Safety Fast

  • @adoreslaurel
    @adoreslaurel2 жыл бұрын

    If a later model had a 1500 engine then I would think it would have to be anMGA block, I dont think that block could have gone fro m approx 948 cc to 1500 cc., not sure how the diff would handle it. from personal experience breaking axles with a Morrisc major, which had basically a Morris minor rear axle.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    I’m not too knowledgeable on the 1500s

  • @kevinsheahan5449

    @kevinsheahan5449

    2 жыл бұрын

    The 1500 engine was from Triumph brand part of British Leyland, very different to the A & B series engines previously used by MG.

  • @adoreslaurel

    @adoreslaurel

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@kevinsheahan5449 Thanks for that.

  • @jeffhildreth9244

    @jeffhildreth9244

    Жыл бұрын

    @@SirDrifto Spitfire smog motor, avoid at all costs.

  • @garethgoodchild2643

    @garethgoodchild2643

    11 ай бұрын

    Very nice car. That muffler system sounds great.

  • @JCisJD
    @JCisJD4 ай бұрын

    Oh my

  • @nkhalmizahar
    @nkhalmizahar Жыл бұрын

    Swap with 998 cc cooper s twin carb for performance oriented owner.

  • @bertrandviolette9008
    @bertrandviolette90082 жыл бұрын

    Hi all. Someone could tell me what "midget" refers to, the little person, the animal, or the adjective for very tiny? Thank you. I’m the owner of MK III, 1967, since a year. What I can tell is the mecanic is very simple, the engine has very useful torque, good accelerations, breaking is straight and pretty efficient, road holding is good. I was very surprised to discover all these qualities in such a old car.

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    The little person for sure

  • @bertrandviolette9008

    @bertrandviolette9008

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SirDrifto Sad, not a very nice name for a car! ;)

  • @erik_dk842

    @erik_dk842

    Жыл бұрын

    @@bertrandviolette9008 But it is a miniature MG sportscar. Nothing derogatory about the naming

  • @rogerking7258

    @rogerking7258

    11 ай бұрын

    It just means little.

  • @jasonbannan4024
    @jasonbannan40242 жыл бұрын

    In college, 1974-78, I had a 1972 blue MG midget. I miss that car. Lived every day in it. However, it was not that reliable. Lol

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    thats a great college car, what motor did you have, 1800?

  • @jasonbannan4024

    @jasonbannan4024

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@SirDrifto I think it was the 1275cc.

  • @eddybabe7963
    @eddybabe79632 жыл бұрын

    Disagree about the safety in a crash. I've had my Mg Midget for over 30 years, during this time I've had two crashes. On both occasions rear ended, I straightened my bumper whilst the others card had smashed lights and a crumpled wing!

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    2 жыл бұрын

    Let’s just say I’d rather get hit driving a Buick that this

  • @mikes6961
    @mikes6961Ай бұрын

    Hell, my mgb had got 152k on the lower end. Starts right up and has never ( knock on wood) not run and driven great

  • @ronnieboucherthecrystalcraftsm
    @ronnieboucherthecrystalcraftsm6 ай бұрын

    Totally WRONG = 1968 MGB Mk 2 5 main bearing all syncro overdrive ! convertible of course - i worked in a MG work shop many years and they are top quality cars !

  • @vyyshnavrajesh2833
    @vyyshnavrajesh283328 күн бұрын

    do you think its a good first car???

  • @SirDrifto

    @SirDrifto

    28 күн бұрын

    If you're mildly mechanical yes.

  • @vyyshnavrajesh2833

    @vyyshnavrajesh2833

    28 күн бұрын

    @@SirDrifto right thank you

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