MG TF Roadster

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"Of all the cars we have occasion to drive, there is one above all others which, by its every characteristic, clearly defines the term sportscar." As this Road & Track verdict on the 1954 MG TF shows, virtually every MG produced falls into the category of instant classic. 

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 helped maintain the marque's 'Safety Fast' reputation.

Powered by a 58bhp twin-carb 1250cc XPAG four-cylinder engine, the TF could crack 60mph in around 18 seconds with a top speed of 80mph. From November 1954 onwards it was also available with a 63bhp 1466cc XPEG engine. Just 9,600 TF models were made before it was replaced by the entirely different MGA in 1955, the vast majority being sold in LHD to the American market.

This 1250cc model is an original UK car that was first registered in Stoke-on-Trent in March 1954. As the original buff log book confirms, the first two owners, a Dr WH Toms and the Staffordshire Tea Set Company, only kept the car for a few months each and the third owner, TG Goodwin, kept it for less than two years but the fourth owner, B Rogers, kept it for 17 years before selling it to the current owner in September 1973.

The 69,200 miles on the clock is said to be the genuine mileage covered from new and is backed up by a run of 27 old MOTs back to 1978 at 65,790 miles. Between 1980 and 1982 the vendor treated the car to a total body-off restoration, the whole process recorded on photographs in the history file. He also had an aluminium hard top custom made for the car for snug year-round motoring which is also included in the sale.

In 2011 the car was converted to run on unleaded fuel and the engine given a good tune up at a cost of some £1,200 (bill on file). An electric fuel pump and stainless steel exhaust have also been fitted and, in the interests of road safety, indicators have been discreetly fitted below the rear bumper while the front fog lamps also ingeniously fulfil this function. A full set of weather gear comprising hood, sidescreens and tonneau cover is also included, all in excellent condition, along with a workshop manual and a box of spares.

Taxed and MOTd until the end of June, the car is said to drive beautifully and is only reluctantly being sold due to the advancing years of the vendor who has derived great pleasure from owning the car these last 41 years. In really lovely condition throughout and as good underneath as it is up top, this classic sportscar needs nothing other than a proud sixth owner behind the wheel.

CATALOGUE AMENDMENT - 24 old MoTs.