MG TD

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The US market was so critical for MG that the new TD, which was unveiled in 1950, was specifically designed to carry on the sales momentum that the TC had enjoyed in that market since its introduction five years previously.

Of the 30,000 odd TDs produced, just 1,656 stayed at home! Based on a stiffer chassis borrowed from the Gerald Palmer-designed Y-Type saloon, it had independent front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering and Easyclean steel wheels and remained in production until late 1953. Contemporary road tests managed a top speed of 77mph from its 1,250cc XPAG engine, with 60mph taking 18.2 seconds from rest.

This 1953 model was exported, however instead of heading for the US, was put on a boat destined for Australia, hence it was originally supplied in RHD. A Spanish automobile badge on the car suggests a period of time in continental Europe, although the car was purchased by the vendor from a gentleman in New York – what a well-travelled motor!

When acquired, it had been stripped, resprayed and reassembled and the engine converted to run on unleaded fuel. Since its arrival in the UK, it has been used regularly and in March 2017 the engine was rebuilt by Classic and Modern at a cost of £4,700. It was also updated with a Sierra five-speed gearbox which has increased the cruising speed dramatically. The original gearbox, along with sundry spares is included in the sale.

New carpets have smartened up the interior and the vendor informs us that he completed a wonderful trouble-free run to La Rochelle in August this year.

There is plenty of documentation covering its history since 2010 when it was repatriated from the US, its sensible guide price looking particularly attractive given its recent engine overhaul and original RHD provenance.