UK vs United Kingdom — 1961 vs 1961
| Midget Mk III 1275 | Midget MkI/MkII Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 56 hp |
| Torque | 70 lb-ft | 64 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,275 cc | 1,098 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.0 sec | 18.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 95 mph | 87 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 21.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,680 lbs | 1,525 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,032 mm |
| Length | 3,480 mm | 3,404 mm |
| Units Produced | 226,526 | 63,961 |
| Original MSRP | $2,299 | $1,895 |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $28,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 5/10 |
On balance, the 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275 for outright capability, or the 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the MG Midget. The 1961 and 1961 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275 producing 65 hp and the 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster delivering 56 hp. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1961 MG Midget Mk III 1275 edges ahead at 13.0 seconds versus 18.3 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 63,961 units built, the 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster is considerably scarcer than the MG Midget's 226,526 examples.