UK vs West Germany — 1961 vs 1965
| Midget Mk III 1275 | 912 Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 70 lb-ft | 89 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,275 cc | 1,582 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.0 sec | 11.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 95 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Weight | 1,680 lbs | 2,128 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,268 mm |
| Length | 3,480 mm | 4,163 mm |
| Units Produced | 226,526 | 30,300 |
| Original MSRP | $2,299 | $4,790 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 5/10 |
The 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe 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.
When UK engineering meets West Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275 and 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 90 hp compared to 65 hp, a 25-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 912 relies on a Flat-4 OHV with 1,582 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe edges ahead at 11.6 seconds versus 13.0 seconds. The MG Midget carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 448 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 30,300 units built, the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe is considerably scarcer than the MG Midget's 226,526 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 Porsche 912 Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.