The MG Midget 1500 typically produced about 75 horsepower on European DIN ratings, with U.S. specifications showing roughly 60–63 horsepower depending on the carburetion and year.
The Midget 1500 is a compact, light roadster from the late 1960s to early 1970s. It used a 1.5-liter B-Series inline-four and twin SU carburetors, delivering spirited performance for its class. Horsepower figures vary by market convention and model year, so you may encounter a range of numbers when checking brochures or restoration guides.
Power ratings and how horsepower is defined
Power numbers for classic MGs depend on the measurement standard. In Europe, DIN horsepower is typically cited; in the United States, SAE net horsepower is the common reference. Here's what you’re most likely to see for the Midget 1500:
- DIN horsepower: about 75 hp (roughly 56 kW) at around 5,500–6,000 rpm.
- SAE net horsepower (US): about 60–63 hp at similar engine speeds, reflecting different measurement standards.
These values reflect the same engine in different rating systems; real-world output can vary with tuning, exhaust setup, and wear. For historical enthusiasts, the distinction between ratings matters when comparing to contemporary cars or brochures.
Performance snapshots
Understanding how those horsepower figures translate to driving helps frame the Midget 1500's character on the road. Typical performance ranges reported by testers and owners include the following:
- 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h): approximately 13–15 seconds, depending on condition and transmission.
- Top speed: around 90–95 mph (145–153 km/h) in properly tuned examples.
Keep in mind that the Midget's light weight and agile chassis often yield a lively, responsive drive even if peak horsepower sits in the mid-70s or lower by rating standard.
Engine and tuning
Carburetion and configuration
The MG Midget 1500 uses a 1.5-liter B-Series inline-four with twin SU carburetors in most late-1960s to early-1970s examples. This setup is responsible for the familiar, characterful surge in power around mid-range revs, and it contributes to the car's peppy handling feel, especially when paired with the light body and manual transmission. Across markets, small differences in exhaust, carburation, and tuning can produce modest shifts in published horsepower figures.
Maintenance and provenance
Because these cars are now classics, exercise care when evaluating horsepower claims on a given example. A healthy engine with properly set carbs, a good exhaust, and minimal drivetrain friction will approach the higher end of the typical range, while a neglected or worn engine will underperform relative to spec.
Summary: In short, the MG Midget 1500’s horsepower is in the mid-range for its era: about 75 hp by DIN standards and roughly 60–63 hp by SAE net standards. Real-world performance depends on tuning, condition, and market variant. For owners and restorers, the key is to ensure proper carburetion, electrical systems, and exhaust to realize the intended character of this classic 1.5-liter roadster.