MG TF 1250 Roadster

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Last of the MG T-Series line and arguably the best, the TF was introduced in October 1953. Although mechanically very similar to its TD predecessor, the provision of a shorter radiator, revised wing line and faired-in headlamps lent it an altogether sportier air.

Equipped with rack-and-pinion-steering, independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension and four-wheel drum brakes, the new model was perfectly in keeping with MG's 'Safety Fast' reputation. Initially powered by a twin-carburettor 57bhp 1,250cc XPAG four-cylinder engine, the TF was offered with a 63bhp 1,466cc XPEG motor from November 1954 onwards. Just 9,600 TF models were made (6,200 with the XPAG engine) before it was replaced by the entirely different MGA in 1955, the vast majority being sold in LHD to the American market.

As the Heritage Certificate confirms, this TF was built to North American Export specification in April 1954 and was to remain in the States for the next 62 years. A good file of bills show regular upkeep back to 1982 during which time the car was resident in Michigan. It was brought back to the UK in August 2016 by The Real Car Company of Snowdonia, from whom the vendor acquired it very shortly afterwards in an attempt to relive his youth (his first car being an MG TD acquired soon after he passed his driving test over 50 years ago).

In his possession the brakes have been overhauled and various new parts fitted including a fuel pump, refurbished carburettors, new plugs, points, condenser, regulator, sports coil plus numerous minor items all detailed in invoices on file. He has also bought a new duck soft top in black which has yet to be fitted, the side screens and tonneau cover that came with the car remaining in good condition.

Looking most attractive with a smart red leather interior and gleaming chrome wire wheels, the car is also very sound underneath as you can see in the photos on the website. All that lets the side down is the paintwork which looks good from 10ft away but is micro-blistered on close inspection. Documentation includes a V5C, workshop manual, parts catalogue, US Certificate of Title plus the aforementioned service records, invoices and Heritage Certificate.

Only reluctantly for sale because the vendor has now realised that he is no longer able to hop in and out of the car quite so nimbly as he once did, this TF is eminently usable as it is and could be smartened up cosmetically and converted to RHD if desired using a kit of parts readily available from the many specialists who serve this model. It is being offered here at no reserve so the best bid takes it home.

AMENDMENT: Bidders are advised that this car is fitted with painted wire wheels and not chrome wires as stated in the catalogue.