1978 | MG Midget 1500

This charming MG Midget 1500 was originally delivered in the United States, with the first owner receiving the keys on June 30th, 1978. Twenty years later, the car was purchased at an auction in Germany by its current owner, a long-time enthusiast. It was registered in the Netherlands in May 1998 and has remained with the same owner ever since.

Shortly after acquisition, a restoration was carried out with care and craftsmanship. Together with a skilled panel beater, the bodywork was repaired and professionally resprayed in the original colour: British Racing Green. Around ten years ago, the paint was refreshed again to maintain its sharp appearance. While the overall finish remains very good, there are a few minor imperfections — including bubbling on the lower left fender edges and a paint blemish near the bonnet shut line. Apart from these small details, the body and structure are solid and well preserved.

The interior was also renewed during the initial restoration. The seats were reupholstered in stylish cognac-coloured vinyl, paired with light brown carpeting. Everything remains in excellent condition: the upholstery is free of damage, the dashboard is complete, and the floor coverings show only minimal signs of wear. The soft top in black vinyl was replaced at the time, and a matching tonneau cover is included with the car.

Mechanically, the car has been well maintained over the years. The gearbox was replaced in 2000 and fully rebuilt in 2016. The engine runs smoothly, the gearbox shifts cleanly, and all major mechanical systems — including brakes, drivetrain, and lighting — operate as they should. The car has always been serviced by a local specialist garage in Enschede and has recently passed a Dutch roadworthiness inspection (APK) valid through March 2027.

The underbody and chassis are in very good condition, benefiting from many years of dry indoor storage. There is some light surface corrosion visible behind the front wheels, where the protective coating has worn off over time, but there is no structural rust. The car remains in solid, honest condition throughout.

This MG Midget 1500 retains its matching numbers and benefits from an RDW exemption allowing US-sized number plates in the Netherlands. It drives and handles exactly as a classic British roadster should: direct, lively, and full of charm. Over the past 27 years, the current owner has enjoyed many memorable journeys, including trips through Belgium and the UK.

In June 2024, the car was professionally appraised for insurance at €12,000. After many years of careful ownership, it's now time for a new enthusiast to take the wheel and enjoy this lovely MG. A well-documented and well-kept Midget MK IV — ready to drive, enjoy, and make new memories with.