The 1966 MG Midget: A Nimble and Affordable Classic
The 1966 MG Midget, designated as the MkII (or sometimes Mk2), represents a significant evolutionary step for the beloved British sports car. Building upon the success of its predecessors, the MkII Midget offered a refined driving experience, improved performance, and a more comfortable interior, all while retaining the quintessential Midget charm and affordability. For enthusiasts and collectors, the 1966 model stands as a sweet spot, embodying the spirit of open-top motoring with a touch of classic British flair.
Key Features and Improvements of the 1966 Midget (MkII):
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Engine: The heart of the 1966 Midget was its spirited 1098cc (67.2 cu in) BMC A-Series inline-four engine. This powerplant, shared with other BMC vehicles, produced a respectable 56 bhp (57 PS or 42 kW) at 6000 rpm. While not a powerhouse by modern standards, this engine provided lively acceleration and a rev-happy character that perfectly suited the Midget's lightweight chassis. The introduction of this larger engine over the earlier 948cc unit in the MkI was a key performance enhancement.
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Transmission: A four-speed manual gearbox was standard, offering a direct and engaging connection to the road. Synchromesh on all gears made for smoother shifts, a welcome improvement over earlier Midgets.
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Suspension and Handling: The Midget's legendary agile handling was a hallmark of the MkII. It featured independent front suspension with coil springs and wishbones, and a live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs. The low center of gravity and responsive steering made it an absolute joy to navigate winding country roads. Its compact size and tight turning circle also made it incredibly maneuverable in urban environments.
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Braking: The MkII Midget saw an important upgrade in its braking system: front disc brakes were now standard. This significantly improved stopping power and provided much-needed confidence for drivers, especially given the car's sporting intentions. Rear drum brakes remained.
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Exterior Design: The 1966 Midget retained the classic, minimalist sports car aesthetic. The iconic twin-headlight grille, low-slung profile, and minimalist chrome trim were all present. The MkII featured several subtle but important updates over the MkI, including:
- Improved Bodywork: While the overall shape remained familiar, the MkII featured slightly revised body panels, often including better door fitment and a generally more refined construction.
- Side Trim: Chrome side strips were a common addition, adding a touch of elegance.
- Convertible Top: The ragtop convertible was the standard configuration, offering the pure open-air driving experience.
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Interior: The interior of the MkII Midget was functional and driver-focused.
- Dashboard: A simple, painted dashboard housed essential instrumentation, including a speedometer and tachometer, along with gauges for oil pressure, fuel, and water temperature.
- Seating: Two bucket seats provided adequate support for spirited driving.
- Comfort Improvements: The MkII offered some minor interior refinements over the MkI, such as improved seating and potentially better insulation, though "comfort" in a Midget context is always relative to its sporting nature.
- Wind-Up Windows: A significant improvement over the MkI's side curtains, the MkII featured proper wind-up windows, enhancing usability and weather protection.
The 1966 Midget's Place in History:
The 1966 MG Midget (MkII) cemented the model's reputation as an accessible and fun sports car. It appealed to a wide audience looking for an affordable entry into classic motoring and a car that could be enjoyed both on spirited drives and for casual weekend outings. Its robust construction, coupled with the readily available parts from the extensive BMC parts network, made it a popular choice for enthusiasts who also enjoyed performing their own maintenance.
Collecting the 1966 Midget Today:
Today, the 1966 MG Midget MkII is a highly sought-after classic. Its combination of classic styling, engaging driving dynamics, and relatively simple mechanics makes it an attractive proposition for collectors and drivers alike. Well-maintained examples can be found at reasonable prices, offering a fantastic opportunity to experience the joy of classic British sports car ownership. While rust can be a concern for any classic British car, the Midget's relatively simple construction makes restoration manageable for those with the inclination. The 1966 model, with its disc brakes and larger engine, represents a desirable evolution of the original concept, offering a rewarding and accessible classic driving experience.