Midas Bronze classic car for sale

History of the Midas Bronze

The Midas Bronze emerged in the late 1970s, spearheaded by Harold Dermott and Maurice Holt, who founded D&H Fibreglass Techniques in Oldham in 1975. Their vision was brought to life by automotive designer Richard Oakes, notable for his work on several iconic kit cars and buggies. The Bronze was purpose-built as an accessible, easy-to-assemble kit car for the British market, utilising readily available Mini running gear—making maintenance straightforward and affordable. As demand grew, production moved to larger premises in Corby, highlighting the car's success within the UK kit car scene.

Model History of the Midas Bronze

The Midas Bronze is rooted in the British DIY motoring culture, with all models based on the reliable Mini subframes and engine options. Over time, incremental improvements focused on body rigidity, comfort, and assembly ease, ensuring the car evolved with its customer base. The series remained loyal to the Midas ethos of lightweight construction, practical motoring, and customisation flexibility—no direct predecessor or successor models exist, as the Bronze maintained its own niche in the market.

Highlights and Special Features

The Midas Bronze stands out for its Richard Oakes-designed, lightweight fiberglass body and its use of Mini mechanical components, which provide both performance and ease of sourcing parts. The model's factory support allowed for ongoing refinement, making it an attractive kit even for less-experienced builders. Notably, the Midas Bronze features admirable corrosion resistance thanks to the fiberglass body, a significant advantage for classic car enthusiasts in the UK climate.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Midas occasionally offered variations and kits tailored to customer specifications but did not formally release factory special editions of the Bronze. Some owner-built examples feature unique accessories, engine options, or personal flourishes, contributing to the diversity found within the surviving cars.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No significant recurring weaknesses associated with the Bronze are documented, thanks primarily to the robust Mini underpinning and durable fiberglass body. The main considerations for buyers are the assembly quality, as these vehicles were often owner-built. Prospective owners should check for accurate alignment of panels and mounting points, as well as the state of Mini subframes for corrosion if the car has not been properly maintained.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Being based on Mini mechanicals, the Midas Bronze inherits the lightweight, nimble handling characteristics, especially on winding roads. Power output depends on the Mini engine chosen by the builder; most cars feature 998cc or 1275cc units, offering sensible performance figures given the low overall weight. The combination of a lighter fiberglass shell and independent suspension at all four corners offers a lively, direct steering feel that is familiar to Mini enthusiasts.

Popular models:

1. Midas Bronze 998 – 998cc A-series engine, favourable balance of fuel economy and usable performance.
2. Midas Bronze 1275 – 1275cc A-series engine, most sought-after for spirited driving due to the higher power-to-weight ratio and sporty response. undefined

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Richard Oakes brought a distinctive look to the Midas Bronze, breaking away from the angular kit car norm of the era. The car features smooth, rounded lines integrated with the lightweight fiberglass monocoque. Interiors are rudimentary but can be customised extensively; most cars use a mix of Mini and bespoke components for seating and instrumentation. Factory and builder-specified options included special seat fabrics, dials, and the option of sunroofs or unique paint schemes, though the emphasis was always on lightness and practicality.

Other Features and Details

Thanks to the monocoque fiberglass construction, the Midas Bronze offers an unusual combination of low weight, corrosion resistance, and rigidity. This construction method was innovative at the time and has contributed to the longevity of surviving cars. Owners often personalise their vehicles extensively, making no two Midas Bronzes exactly alike.

Summary

The Midas Bronze is a standout British kit car that leverages Mini mechanicals within a fiberglass body designed for lightweight agility and ease of ownership. Richard Oakes’ design vision, the adaptability of the Mini platform, and the innovative monocoque construction combine to offer a classic that is both characterful and practical for enthusiasts seeking something individual yet easily maintainable.