The MG Midget Mk I sports car had proven extremely popular with the motoring public and, in March 1964, the British Motoring Company (BMC) launched the Mk II. The new model continued to be an affordable classic sports car.
There were a limited number of modifications on the Mk II including:
Motoring reviews of the MG Midget Mk II praised the car’s handling and overall driving experience, although the compact design proved less comfortable for taller or broader drivers.
Between 1964 and 1966, a total of 26,601 were produced; a small increase on the 25,681 Mk I MG Midgets. This reflected the growing popularity of the MG small sports car in both the UK and overseas markets. BMC increased their advertising spend, targeting young, childless couples with the lure of getting away for the weekend.
In 1966, a convertible MG Midget Mk II even appeared in a car chase during an episode of the BBC’s The Dick Emery Show. This highlighted the growing British popularity of an affordable, stylish sports car.
The final Mk II was produced in 1966, but the popularity of the MG Midget continued with the Mk III.
As with the MG Midget Mk I, the dashboard of the Mk II featured Smiths gauges. However, the configuration was different to the Mk I. Whereas the speedometer and tachometer remained mounted behind the steering wheel, the fuel gauge and the dual oil and water gauge were positioned either side of the ignition key in front of the gear stick in a more centralised location. This gave the dashboard a less cluttered appearance, stretching across towards the passenger.
Classic MGs, such as the MG Midget, MGA, MGB, MGB GT V8, and MGC, all used gauges designed and built by Smiths Instruments. CAI continue to manufacture many of these gauges today, built using the original drawings.
For further information on Smiths gauges for classic MG sports cars, please contact us on:
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