When a car is built, a VIN code is stamped on it. It’s a unique alphanumeric sequence that, when decoded, reveals when and where the car was built, and what options it came with. More importantly, cars are numbered in sequence as they come down the assembly line. It kind of acts like a birth certificate.
What makes this pair of 1974 MG Midgets in Toronto so special is that their VIN codes are sequential — meaning one came off the assembly line right after the other one. These cars were born together in Abingdon, England, but they didn’t remain together for very long.
1974 MG Midget twins
Walter Rhoddy, Driving
Little about the early history of these cars is known. They were probably shipped to Canada as a pair (likely rusting while on the boat here) and were possibly sold through the same dealership. But what we do know is that the green car parted ways with its red brother and the two would not be reunited for a very long time.
The red MG passed through a series of owners before landing at a farm outside Beaverton, Ont., in 2011. Just one year later in 2012, its owner heard about another 1974 MG Midget that was for sale. He went to have a look at it and when he checked the VIN code, he knew he had to have it. The green car was made directly after the red one! A deal was struck, and the ratty green MG headed towards the barn in Beaverton to once again be reunited with its red brother.
1974 MG Midget twins
Walter Rhoddy, Driving
Time hasn’t been kind to the little Midgets and both cars are showing their age. The red car runs and drives, but has rust issues in the rocker panels. The green car looks like a patchwork quilt thanks to recent metal work, has a rotten top, and hasn’t been started yet.
These MG siblings are looking for a new home and after their amazing reunion story, it would be a shame to separate them again. The ad can be found here. The current owner, Walter Rhoddy (not the one who reunited the pair), is asking $1,800 for the green MG and $2,300 for the red one. He’d like to keep them as a pair (it was meant to be!) and is offering both for $3,600.
1974 MG Midget twins
Walter Rhoddy, Driving
Rhoddy found the two cars while responding to an ad for a 1970 Honda Civic ice racer stored at the same Beaverton property. He ended up not buying the Civic and left with the pair of MGs. After owning the cars for a few months, Rhoddy has decided to let them go.
Restored, these cars would make a perfectly matching his and hers set. Maybe a father and son team could restore them and each keep one. The odds of finding another sequential pair of classic sports cars are cosmically slim. These cars were born together halfway around the world and have finally been reunited. Hopefully, they can stay together.
