The 1977 MG Midget sits near the end of the long-running Midget line, a small British sports car that had been in production, in various forms, since 1961. By this stage, the model was shaped heavily by changing safety and emissions regulations, particularly those coming from the United States, which had become its main export market.

The MG Midget itself evolved from earlier Austin-Healey Sprite designs. By the mid-1970s, however, the car was quite dated mechanically. It still used a version of the BMC A-Series engine, enlarged to 1493cc (often referred to as the “1500”), which had been sourced from Triumph. This change came in 1974, replacing the earlier 1275cc unit in an effort to meet emissions standards and maintain performance.

For the 1977 model year, the Midget featured several characteristics typical of late-production cars. Most noticeably, it had large black rubber bumpers instead of the earlier chrome ones. These were introduced in 1974 to comply with US impact regulations and significantly altered the car’s appearance. At the same time, the ride height was raised, which affected both handling and aesthetics compared with earlier, lower-slung versions.

The 1500 engine in the 1977 car produced modest power, typically around 65 brake horsepower, and was paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. Performance was adequate rather than lively, especially compared with earlier, lighter Midgets. The car retained its simple rear-wheel-drive layout, independent front suspension, and leaf-sprung live rear axle.

Inside, the 1977 Midget was basic but functional. It had a straightforward dashboard with essential instruments, improved seating compared with earlier models, and features such as a collapsible steering column for safety. Weather protection remained minimal, with a simple hood (convertible top) and detachable side screens replaced by wind-up windows in earlier revisions.

By this time, the Midget was facing strong competition from more modern small sports cars, and its ageing design was becoming increasingly apparent. Production costs, tightening regulations, and declining sales all contributed to its eventual discontinuation. The final MG Midgets were built in 1979, marking the end of nearly two decades of continuous production.

Today, the 1977 MG Midget is often seen as a “late” model that reflects the compromises of its era. While it lacks some of the purity and lightness of earlier chrome-bumper cars, it remains appreciated for its simplicity, charm, and place in British motoring history.