MG M-Type
First drive it was dreadful, like a possessed shopping trolley, I had not paid anywhere near enough attention to steering geometry.
The Inspiration Car
The MG M type (also known as the MG Midget) was the first genuinely affordable sports car costing £175.00 at launch.
Launched at the 1928 Motor Show, the new MG cost less than the Morris Minor on which it was based. The M type was also the first to wear the Midget name that would be used on a succession of small sports cars until 1980.
The M Type had considerable sporting success winning gold in the 1929 Lands End trial & class wins in the 1930 Double 12 at Brooklands, seeing off Austin (sadly history is not repeating itself).
The Chassis
The chassis is based on a real MG/Morris Minor chassis but in cycle kart dimensions. Welded 75x25x1.6 swg box section mild steel (learning to weld was interesting).
Running Gear & Engine choice
The wheels are 17 inch pit bike wheels. Engine is a 212 cc Hyundai engine linked to a Chinese clone torque converter, with a 420 chain final drive.
The Body
The body is all plywood as is the floor. The bonnet is 6 mm flexiply with all other parts being 6 mm ply. The floor is 12 mm ply.
What’s the least and most favourite part of the build?
My favourite was the overall challenge of making something that actually moved, followed by all the fake details, brake drums, hub caps, suspension dampers & exhaust system. Least favourite was painting it, it’s what I do for a living & painting starts with pain.
How long did it take to build?
It took 7 months from start to finish.
How does it drive?
First drive it was dreadful, like a possessed shopping trolley, I had not paid anywhere near enough attention to steering geometry. Fortunately there is a lot of expertise on the clubs forum which helped me sort out the problems. It now goes where intended & behaves quite well.
Ongoing changes and tweaks
At this time I have no intention of changing anything other than trying to improve engine performance to within the clubs rules. Also have a desire to build another - perhaps when I retire!
Go on - have a go yourself.
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