MG TD

Following on from the successful MG TC the TD arrived in 1949, introducing some much needed post-war refinements. The TD now featured independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, which greatly improved the T-Series handling characteristics. 

It also boasted a hypoid-bevel back axle, hidden scuttle reinforcement hoop and twin leading-shoe front brakes. The TD body still retained the 30s style body design but now had pressed steel wheels and had a mirror-image dashboard to facilitate either RHD or LHD drive production as the vast majority of the 29,665 cars made were sold overseas.

In 1951 a Mk II TD entered production and introduced a more powerful (60bhp) engine, which offered 82mph performance. Great fun to drive, the MG TD had a quirky mixture of a vintage body and 50s styling cues and sold extremely well until it was replaced by the MG TF in 1953.

This left-hand drive MkII TD was imported from the dry state of California in 1990 and has thus been largely spared from the rigours of the English climate. Looking most appealing in Powder Blue, it appears to be in exceptionally well-preserved condition with very sound bodywork and a good chassis. The interior has been expertly retrimmed in light tan leather at some point and has now developed a nice patina.

The current vendor acquired the car about a year ago after it had been languishing in a barn for six years. He has since spent almost £5,000 on recommissioning the car including a full brake system overhaul; new clutch; reconditioned dynamo; rebuilt carburettors; new stainless steel exhaust and a new electric cooling fan. The engine has also been tuned and inspected and modern oil seals fitted in place of the old rope ones.

It comes with a full set of weather gear (hood, sidescreens and tonneau) plus 14 old MOTs going back to 1991 when the recorded mileage was 85,881 – a total which has now risen to some 93,100. There are also bills detailing the recommissioning work and import documents including the California Certificate of Title. Taxed until March 2014 and due to have a fresh MOT before the sale, the car is said to drive very well and is ready for immediate use.