MG Midget – Not in that Car

In the past a large number of M.G. sports and touring cars were used by United Kingdom police forces as patrol cars. This book sets out to both give full details of the cars used, compiled from surviving police, company and club records, and in their own words tell the story of the men and women who drove them

With their strong mechanical elements, solid construction and useful performance, few classic British sports cars are quite so practical to own today as the MGAs built from 1955 to 1962. The aim of this book is to show, in words and pictures, how MGAs altered in detail through the course of production, in order to enable owners, enthusiasts and prospective purchasers to identify the parts, finishes and equipment that are correct for their car. Colour photography of outstanding specimens shows every permutation of MGA specification in remarkable detail. The MGA Restorer’s Guide is accepted by classic car owners, buyers and enthusiasts as the definitive source of advice on correct original and authentic specifications and equipment. Information has been drawn from factory records, parts lists and catalogues, as well as the accumulated knowledge of the most respected restorers.

A comprehensive following of 50 years of the history and character of the model from pre-production concepts and prototypes through modern day activities. This includes many stories of special cars and special people and the way the cars have been used (and abused) over the decades. At times the cars were near orphans with low value, so it is a wonder how so many MGAs have survived, and are still with us today. The book pays tribute to the unique character of this particular model and the reasons why people find them so endearing. It covers variants and modified cars, the motorsport efforts of works cars and privateers, a myriad of speed records and competition titles, and distribution of the cars around the world.

This is the inside story of the MG Design office, from 1956 until its closure in 1980. Explaining how the various models were drawn, planned, and developed by the small team of engineers, it also shows how the input and control changed from Morris, Wolseley, Riley Group, Austin-Morris, and Austin Rover. The effects of the Triumph-Austin merger are detailed in model changes, alongside the effects of safety legislation, mainly imposed by the United States. Trying to remain as individual as possible during this period, MG developed record breakers and a unique Competition Department. Special cars were built and tested, and prototypes for the MGB replacement were drawn up all in parallel with the development of MG production cars using engines from any part of the company.