Informed 1st time MG owner

I do not own an MG. For as long as I can remember (40+ years) I have wanted one. I am back to considering purchasing my first MG. Late 60s or early 70s. MGB or Midget.

I'm not a mechanic but have maintained and repaired my own cars for many years. Also I learn quickly and have good mechanical aptitude.

My intent is for the car to not just be a hobby car. I'd plan to use it as a transportation vehicle (except in the winter). Additionally I'd like to take it on longer road trips beginning next year. I'd spend this year getting it ready.

Any advice would be appreciated. What to stay away from, what to look for, encouragements, discouragements...

Thank you,

Welcome to the forum. The big problem with the MGB and Midget is rust. Many claim to be rust free but usually a close examination will find rust. The Midget will be a little cheaper to buy than the same year MGB. I don't know how big you are but is over 5' 10" tall you may find the Midget hard to get in and out of. Their doors are narrow. A Midget will be buzzy at expressway speeds and it's steering response is quicker than a B. MGB's were available with overdrive the Midget never offered OD. For long distance touring I would choose the MGB. Parts are available for both cars. If you plan to tour next year try to find a car that doesn't need restoration. You probably wouldn't get a restoration finished by next year. Buy the best car you can afford, I didn't. Try to find someone familiar with MG's to take with you when looking at cars to purchase. Good luck, hope you find a good car.

Clifton

See here for purchase help:

www.mgbexperience.com

Also check out http://www.theautoist.com
Tony has many technical articles available.
http://www.theautoist.com/shadetreetech.htm
Mechanicals are easy to fix compared to fixing the body.
Look into joining a local British car club to get help in finding and purchasing an MG.
Club membership has many advantages.
At http://www.mgexperience.net you will find a few journals telling about others' experiences making their MGs roadworthy.

I presently have a 79 MGB. It is mostly a toy and doesn't get much use, but it is part of the family and it's cherished by all of us. I have owned a Midget as well. They are cute cars for short trips around town. They are too small for me or, in my opinion, most adults. I would suggest that you make sure to get a car with the following assets:

* Straight frame

* No rust

* All smog equipment required for your state

* Unmodified engine

* If in California, 1974 or older...No SMOG test required

Good luck...