MG Midget MkI/MkII

vs

Porsche 914

United Kingdom vs Germany — 1961 vs 1969

MG Midget MkI/MkII (1961)
Porsche 914 (1969)
Specifications
Midget MkI/MkII Roadster914 /6
Horsepower56 hp110 hp
Torque64 lb-ft116 lb-ft
Engine Size1,098 cc1,991 cc
0-60 mph18.3 sec9.0 sec
Top Speed87 mph124 mph
¼ Mile21.2 sec16.8 sec
Weight1,525 lbs2,072 lbs
Wheelbase2,032 mm2,450 mm
Length3,404 mm3,985 mm
Units Produced63,9613,351
Original MSRP$1,895$5,999
Value (Excellent)$28,000$125,000
Collectibility7/108/10
Rarity5/108/10
The Verdict

The 1969 Porsche 914 /6 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster 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.

Overview

Putting the 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster 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 — United Kingdom versus Germany. The 1969 Porsche 914 /6 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 110 hp compared to 56 hp, a 54-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG Midget MkI/MkII uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,098 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 18.3 seconds. The MG Midget MkI/MkII carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 547 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 MkI/MkII's 63,961 examples. On the collector market, the 1969 Porsche 914 /6 commands a significant premium over the 1961 MG Midget MkI/MkII Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.