Image of 1973 Mg Midget, sourced from classicsworld.co.uk , Image Link.

1973 MG Midget: A Pocket-Sized Powerhouse

The 1973 MG Midget is a testament to the adage that good things come in small packages. This diminutive sports car, produced by the British Motor Corporation, and later by its successors, is a symbol of the spirited driving and innovation of its era. Born in a time when automotive design was as much about character as it was about efficiency, the Midget stood out for its plucky performance and classic British styling. One unique fact that car enthusiasts might find fascinating is that despite its size, the Midget was often seen punching well above its weight in various motor sports competitions.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1973 MG Midget boasted a classic roadster silhouette, with rounded curves and a long bonnet that hinted at its sporting intentions. The chrome bumpers with overriders, wire wheels, and distinctive grille made it instantly recognizable. Inside, the cabin was snug but functional, with an emphasis on driver engagement over luxury. Materials were simple yet durable, with vinyl seats and a no-nonsense dashboard layout featuring essential gauges and switches. Technological features were modest by today's standards but included advancements like disc brakes at the front for improved stopping power. Popular color options included vibrant hues like reds and yellows, which emphasized the car's playful nature. The roadster body style was iconic, often paired with a black or white soft top that could be manually folded down for open-air motoring.

Historical Significance

The MG Midget's impact on automotive design was significant for compact sports cars. It offered an affordable entry point into the world of sports cars without sacrificing the joy of driving—a philosophy that resonated with many and influenced future generations of small sports vehicles. Its simplicity and mechanical purity set it apart from contemporaries that were moving towards more complex and less engaging designs.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the '73 Midget came equipped with a 1,275cc engine capable of propelling this lightweight machine to respectable speeds for its class. The top speed hovered around 90 mph, while acceleration from 0-60 mph took roughly 13 seconds—a lively performance given the period and engine size. Handling was one of the car's strong suits; it provided direct feedback through the thin steering wheel and responded eagerly to driver inputs. Driving a Midget was an intimate experience—the roar of the engine just behind the firewall, the sensation of being close to the ground, and the mechanical symphony of components working in unison created an exhilarating ride.

Ownership Experience

Owners of a 1973 MG Midget typically reveled in its dual personality; it served as both a charming daily driver and an enthusiastic weekend racer. Maintenance was relatively straightforward due to its simple mechanics, making it an accessible classic car for enthusiasts looking to tinker in their garage. Reliability was typical of British cars of that era—requiring regular attention but rewarding those who provided it with loyalty.

Fun Facts

The MG Midget had several rare editions throughout its production run, including limited releases with special trim or performance packages. While not known for breaking speed records, it held records in enthusiasts' hearts for its giant-killing performances on rally courses and race tracks alike. Despite some criticisms over time regarding its cramped interior or lack of modern amenities, its charm has remained undiminished.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-maintained 1973 MG Midget can fetch anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on condition, originality, and provenance—an appreciating asset in the classic car market. With approximately 73,899 units produced during this model year across all variants (according to production data), they are relatively available to collectors but finding one in pristine condition can be challenging.

Conclusion

The 1973 MG Midget is more than just a vehicle; it's a slice of automotive history that encapsulates the joy of driving in its purest form. It reminds us that sometimes less really is more and that true driving pleasure doesn't necessarily come from raw power or cutting-edge technology but from design that connects driver to road in harmonious simplicity.

1973 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

1973 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

1973 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