Image of 1966 Mg Midget, sourced from autohunter.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Charm of the 1966 MG Midget

The 1966 MG Midget is a testament to the allure of British automotive engineering – a small, sprightly car that captures the essence of a bygone era of motoring. Born from the collaboration between the British Motor Corporation and its MG Car Company division, this diminutive roadster was designed to deliver pure driving pleasure. With its roots tracing back to the early 1960s, the MG Midget quickly became an icon of accessible sports car fun, embodying the joy of open-top driving. A notable moment in its history was its role in popularizing the small sports car segment across the globe, making it a beloved choice for enthusiasts.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1966 MG Midget was characterized by its charmingly compact dimensions, rounded contours, and a friendly front grille that seemed to smile at onlookers. The interior featured a no-frills approach with an emphasis on driver engagement over luxury, using materials that were simple yet durable. Technologically, it boasted innovations like rack-and-pinion steering and disc brakes at the front – advanced features for a car in its class during that time. Color options ranged from vibrant reds to deep blues, with British Racing Green being a particularly popular choice among enthusiasts. The roadster body style with its convertible top was not just iconic but also the most celebrated expression of the Midget's free-spirited nature.

Historical Significance

The 1966 MG Midget's impact on automotive design was profound; it helped cement the formula for affordable sports cars – small engine, lightweight body, and exceptional handling. It stood out from contemporaries with its blend of performance and affordability, influencing generations of sports cars that followed. Its lasting influence can be seen in how today's small roadsters continue to prioritize driver engagement over outright power.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its bonnet lay an eager 1,098cc engine propelling the Midget to respectable top speeds and delivering a 0-60 mph time that could rival larger cars of its time. The real magic of the 1966 MG Midget was in its handling – nimble and responsive to driver inputs, making winding roads its natural habitat. The driving experience was visceral; every rev of the engine could be felt, every shift of gears was an interaction with the machine, and every corner taken was a dance between driver and road.

Ownership Experience

The 1966 MG Midget found itself fulfilling various roles – from being an everyday companion to gracing car shows or even participating in amateur racing events. Its mechanical simplicity meant that maintenance and repairs could often be undertaken by the owners themselves, adding to its charm and appeal as a classic car. However, like many vehicles of its age, reliability could be temperamental and required regular attention.

Fun Facts

Amongst MG enthusiasts, it's well-known that several celebrities have been charmed by the Midget's allure. Furthermore, while not known for breaking speed records, it has certainly set records in terms of popularity and sales within its category. Criticisms often centered around its cramped interior and modest power output but did little to dampen its widespread appeal.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1966 MG Midget can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on condition and originality. With production numbers in the tens of thousands during its run, they are relatively available for collectors but finding one in pristine condition can be challenging. As with many classic cars, values have generally appreciated over time as nostalgia fuels demand for these charming roadsters.

Conclusion

The 1966 MG Midget remains an emblematic figure in automotive history – a small car with a big heart and an even bigger personality. It encapsulates an era where driving joy was measured not by speed or luxury but by smiles per mile. Whether you're an avid collector or simply someone who appreciates classic automotive design, the Midget stands as a reminder that sometimes less truly is more.

1966 MG Midget Windshield Post Pads. 2-1/8" wide X 5-3/8" long. Pair-MP 111-RWindshield Post Pads. 2-1/8" wide X 5-3/8" long. Pair

1966 MG Midget Jack Socket Plug. Fits 1-1/2" hole. 1-1/4" I.D. Each-RP 90-BJack Socket Plug. Fits 1-1/2" hole. 1-1/4" I.D. Each

1966 MG Midget Grille Shell Grommet. 2" X 1" X 5/16" Thick. Each-SM 7Grille Shell Grommet. 2" X 1" X 5/16" Thick. Each