UK vs Germany — 1961 vs 1969
| Midget Mk III 1275 | 914 /6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 70 lb-ft | 116 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,275 cc | 1,991 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.0 sec | 9.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 95 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 16.8 sec |
| Weight | 1,680 lbs | 2,072 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,450 mm |
| Length | 3,480 mm | 3,985 mm |
| Units Produced | 226,526 | 3,351 |
| Original MSRP | $2,299 | $5,999 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $125,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 8/10 |
The 1969 Porsche 914 /6 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275 counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275 against the 1969 Porsche 914 /6 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus Germany. The 1969 Porsche 914 /6 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 110 hp compared to 65 hp, a 45-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG Midget uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,275 cc, while the Porsche 914 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC with 1,991 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1969 Porsche 914 /6 edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 13.0 seconds. The MG Midget carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 392 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 3,351 units built, the 1969 Porsche 914 /6 is considerably scarcer than the MG Midget's 226,526 examples. On the collector market, the 1969 Porsche 914 /6 commands a significant premium over the 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.