06/09/2019
The MG Midget, a name synonymous with affordable British sports car fun, has a rich history stretching back decades. While many associate the 'Midget' moniker with the later BMC/British Leyland era cars, the nameplate first graced the charming MG M-Type in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Understanding the heart of these vehicles, particularly their engines, is crucial for any enthusiast looking to maintain, restore, or enhance their beloved Midget. This article delves into the world of MG Midget engines, focusing on who makes them and the types of engines that powered these iconic machines.
The Heart of the Matter: Who Builds MG Midget Engines?
For those seeking expert craftsmanship and dedication to the A-Series engine, Skiptune stands out as a premier specialist. With over 40 years of experience dedicated to building MG Midget and A-Series engines, Skiptune has cultivated a deep understanding of these classic powerplants. They operate their own workshops, ensuring that every engine is built to order and machined to the highest possible standards, utilising only the finest quality components.
Skiptune caters to a broad spectrum of requirements, from standard road-legal engines to high-performance, fast-road variants. Crucially, they build engines to your exact specifications. This bespoke approach means you can either have a completely new engine built for your Midget, supplied ready to install, or opt for a rebuild of your existing engine, preserving the original character and numbers-matching originality of your vehicle. A significant advantage of their service is the flexibility to incorporate your own existing components, such as a favoured cylinder head or camshaft, into the new or rebuilt engine. This commitment to customisation and quality makes Skiptune a go-to for serious MG Midget enthusiasts.
What Kind of Engine Does the MG Midget Use?
The answer to this question depends on which era of MG Midget you are referring to, as the name has been applied to distinct models over time.
The Original "Midget": The MG M-Type (1929-1932)
The very first MG to bear the "Midget" name was the MG M-Type, produced from April 1929 to 1932. Often referred to as the "8/33", this diminutive sports car was a pivotal model for MG. Launched at the 1928 London Motor Show, it was designed to appeal to a new market segment during a challenging economic climate. The M-Type's success is credited with potentially saving the company, bringing the joy of MG ownership to a wider audience.
The M-Type was revolutionary for its time, being one of the first genuinely affordable sports cars from a mainstream manufacturer. It wasn't merely a modified saloon; it was a purpose-built sports car that offered excellent road manners and an engaging driving experience at a price point that made it accessible. The foundation for the M-Type was the 1928 Morris Minor, upon which MG heavily based its design, albeit with significant enhancements.
M-Type Engine Specifications:
The MG M-Type was powered by an updated version of the four-cylinder, overhead camshaft engine that also featured in the 1928 Morris Minor and Wolseley 10. Initially, this engine displaced 847cc and was equipped with a single SU carburettor, producing approximately 20 bhp at 4,000 rpm. Drive was sent to the rear wheels via a three-speed, non-synchromesh gearbox.
Significant improvements were made in 1930. Engine output was boosted to 27 bhp thanks to modifications to the camshaft, and a four-speed gearbox became an optional extra. These enhancements, along with front-hinged doors, made the M-Type even more appealing.
For the ultimate performance boost, a supercharged version of the M-Type became available in 1932. This forced induction option could push the car's top speed to an impressive 80 mph (130 km/h).
M-Type Body and Chassis:
Early M-Type bodies were fabric-covered, built upon a wooden frame. However, from 1931 onwards, all-metal construction became the standard. Most M-Types featured bodies crafted by Carbodies of Coventry and were fitted by MG in either open two-seat or closed two-door "Sportsman's" coupé configurations. Some chassis were also supplied to independent coachbuilders like Jarvis. The M-Type was even produced as a van for service use!
The standard M-Type could achieve speeds of up to 65 mph (105 km/h) and offered a respectable fuel economy of around 40 miles per gallon. The open two-seater was priced at £175 upon its launch, later increasing to £185, while the coupé commanded a price of £245. The supercharged version in 1932 cost £250.
M-Type Sporting Pedigree:
The M-Type wasn't just a pretty face; it had a significant impact in motorsport. It achieved considerable success in various trials and races, both in privateer hands and with official MG teams. Notable achievements include gold medals in the 1929 Land's End Trial and class wins in the 1930 "Double Twelve" race at Brooklands. While an entry was made in the 1930 Le Mans 24-hour race, neither of the two M-Type cars managed to finish.
The Later "Midget": MG Midget (1961-1980)
The MG Midget name was revived in 1961 with the launch of the Midget MkI, a completely different car from the M-Type. These later Midgets were based on the underpinnings of the Austin-Healey Sprite and shared many of its mechanical components, including the engine. Over its production run, the Midget evolved through several iterations (MkI to MkIII, and the rubber-bumpered 1500).
Engines Used in the Later MG Midget:
- 1961-1964 (MkI & MkII): These models were powered by the 948cc OHV inline-four engine, derived from the Austin A-Series engine. This unit produced around 46 bhp.
- 1964-1966 (MkII): An upgrade saw the introduction of the 1098cc OHV inline-four engine, also from the Austin A-Series family, offering a modest power increase to approximately 55 bhp.
- 1966-1974 (MkIII): The most significant engine change for the Midget came with the adoption of the 1275cc OHV inline-four engine, famously used in the Mini Cooper S. This engine provided a more spirited performance, typically producing around 65 bhp. This is the engine most commonly associated with the classic, chrome-bumper MG Midget.
- 1974-1980 (1500): In a move to meet emissions regulations and improve performance slightly, the final Midget models were fitted with the 1493cc Triumph Spitfire inline-four engine. This engine produced around 60-65 bhp but marked a departure from the traditional A-Series engine that had powered earlier Midgets and Sprites.
Engine Rebuilding and Performance Upgrades
Whether you own an early M-Type or a later chrome-bumper 1275cc Midget, maintaining and improving the engine is a key part of ownership. Specialists like Skiptune offer comprehensive services:
| Service | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Rebuild | Full strip-down, cleaning, inspection, replacement of worn parts (pistons, bearings, rings), and reassembly to factory specifications. | Restores original performance and reliability. Ensures longevity. |
| Fast Road / Performance Build | Includes upgrades such as performance camshafts, ported cylinder heads, larger carburettors, electronic ignition, and potentially higher compression pistons. | Significantly increases power and torque, improves throttle response, and enhances the driving experience. |
| Competition Engines | Built to specific racing or rallying regulations, often with further modifications like forged components, dry-sump lubrication, and specialised tuning. | Maximises performance for competitive use. Tailored to specific motorsport disciplines. |
| Component Balancing | Ensures that rotating and reciprocating parts (crankshaft, con-rods, pistons, flywheel) are precisely balanced. | Reduces vibration, allows the engine to rev more freely and safely, and increases overall engine life. |
Frequently Asked Questions about MG Midget Engines
Q1: What is the most common engine found in an MG Midget?
For the popular chrome-bumper era MG Midgets (1966-1974), the 1275cc A-Series engine is the most common and sought-after. For the later rubber-bumper models, it's the 1500cc Triumph engine.
Q2: Can I fit a later model engine into an earlier MG Midget?
Yes, it is often possible, but modifications will likely be required. For example, fitting the 1275cc engine into a 1098cc Midget is a popular upgrade, often requiring changes to engine mounts, exhaust, and potentially gearbox linkages. Fitting the Triumph 1500cc engine into earlier Midgets or Sprites is also feasible but involves more significant fabrication.
Q3: What are common issues with MG Midget engines?
Common issues often relate to wear and tear due to age. These can include oil leaks (especially from the rear crankshaft seal), worn camshafts, noisy tappets (requiring regular adjustment on A-Series engines), worn oil pumps, and cooling system problems (radiator efficiency, thermostat issues). Overheating can also be a concern if the cooling system is not properly maintained.
Q4: Where can I get an MG Midget engine rebuilt?
Specialist companies like Skiptune, with decades of experience in A-Series engine building, are highly recommended. Independent MG specialists and classic car restoration garages also offer these services.
While both are four-cylinder engines and the M-Type was the first MG to use the "Midget" name, the M-Type's 847cc overhead camshaft engine is mechanically very different from the later A-Series engines (948cc, 1098cc, 1275cc) found in the 1960s and 70s Midgets. The later engines are based on the BMC A-Series design.
Conclusion
The MG Midget, in both its original M-Type form and its later iterations, represents a significant chapter in British automotive history. Whether you're drawn to the pioneering spirit of the M-Type or the classic charm of the 1960s and 70s models, the engine is undeniably the soul of the car. Understanding who builds and rebuilds these engines, and the specifications they offer, is essential for preserving these automotive icons for future generations. Specialists like Skiptune play a vital role in ensuring that the roar of an MG Midget engine continues to be heard on roads and tracks for years to come.
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