MG Midget IV gallery (1974–1979)

The fourth and final generation of the model, universally known as the MG Midget 1500, entered production in late 1974 to comply with increasingly stringent crash safety and emissions regulations in the United States. Visually, the car was transformed by the addition of massive black polyurethane impact bumpers at both ends. To meet legal bumper height regulations, the suspension was raised by approximately one inch, which compromised handling until front anti-roll bars were standardized. Under the hood, the venerable BMC engine was superseded by the 1493 cc inline-four engine sourced from the Triumph Spitfire, coupled with a Triumph-derived all-synchromesh four-speed manual transmission. Power output varied from 50 to 65 horsepower depending on regional emissions equipment and compression ratios. In late 1976, squared rear wheel arches were reinstated to restore structural stiffness. Sold primarily across North America and the United Kingdom, the Midget 1500 remained a staple of budget open-air sports motoring until the final example rolled off the Abingdon production line in November 1979, concluding an 18-year legacy.