1952 MG TD

With just two former owners this vehicle is one of the best examples we have seen. Looking at this car you would be forgiven for feeling transported back to an afternoon drama on the BBC, with a pot of tea and a picnic.

They say the MG TD isn’t as attractive as the TC and TF but 'in the flesh' you see how beautiful this car really is.

The folding beige roof is in the same condition as the rest of the vehicle, which is to say that it still looks quite new and fits and furls as it should. There’s a roof cover to keep it neatly stored when it’s folded down, along with a full tonneau cover for when you feel like some al fresco fun but would like to keep the interior protected in case of inclement weather. It complements the red paintwork which, with a polish, will create the perfect little British sportscar to ramble round the Cotswolds on any fine day.

This careful vendor has even left written notes on the radiator about the waterless coolant required, accompanied with an abundance of receipts, little expense spared here with this car with items such as new mirror and windscreen arm along with a regular supply of Valvemaster fluid, evidence that this car was driven and cared for in equal measure.

Such an exceptional vehicle, the only aspect that we may not show in the photographs is the paintwork – although really very good, it could do with a professional detailer set upon it.

The panels are free of ripples, dents, and the interior and roof are as good an example you will find.

As we will never tire of explaining, our experience shows that matching high-quality tyres are an infallible sign of a caring and mechanically sympathetic owner who is prepared to spend the appropriate amount in maintaining their car properly. Their presence does not, of course, preclude the need for a thorough inspection - something the vendor would welcome, by the way – but it does perhaps give you a shortcut into their attitude towards car care.

Original Lucas lights and delightful Bullet side lights frosted are at the front, as it has been for all the sixty-nine years of this little car’s life. Great chrome work everywhere and the wheel rims are in excellent condition too. An original petrol cap and we think if you look through the receipts you will find replacements for many small parts along the way.

The tan leather of the upholstery contrasts nicely with the red exterior. The coverings seem to be new (although have not seen the receipts for these) and are just beginning to get the lovely gentle creases that come with ageing leather.

The trademark vintage-style delicate Plastic/ Bakelite olive toned steering wheel creates a rim for the gold central shaft.

Super comfortable seats – again, they look like they have been recovered but we think you could drive for a whole day in this little car, as they look and give the occupants a wonderfully intimate driving experience. As you can see, they’re in great shape and are free of any damage and wear.

There’s a full suite of Jaeger dials too, all of which are in great condition and neatly set into the dashboard – and while the dashboard might not have the traditional slab of wood used by other manufacturers, its absence isn’t missed because the MG TD’s interior is one of the nicest of all, of its contemporaries.

The door cards are in a good condition too, as are the carpets and glove compartment, all with such utterly excellent beige carpeting. Our writer (being a lady) wanted to simply leave a makeup compact and a lipstick in there – ready for when she is picked up by the new owner to take her for a spin.

Slight wear to the top of the door – which could do with some detailing and slight wear to the manual windscreen wiper mechanism, which with a little attention will become as good as new.

Two delightful chunky Bakelite switches, one for the push horn and another for the indicators which our writer’s fingers found perfectly comforting to hold. The Bakelite key surround in superb condition as are the three other Bakelite switches on the dash panel.

A lovely find was the accessory attached to the 12-volt map reading light (those red and back electrical holes you find on dashboards around this time, perfect for map and utility lamps). Another delight was the push horn and of course the wheel jack and brace in the boot of the car ready, ready for the unexpected…

An extremely clean engine bay, with the handwritten note of waterless coolant made us take care on studying the replaced parts, the wiring loom looked original but very tidy. The upkeep of this car has been meticulous with mechanical replacements such as hose clips, hoses, and the like.

With an abundance of parts and service receipts from Brown & Gammons, including items such as a new starter handle along with an original letter from the MG historic register, the current owner has looked after this car with the utmost respect.

This MG TD model continues to offer true British sports car driving, with its combination of looks, performance and affordable running costs only strengthening its appeal. A truly fine example of a glorious British mark that will set you apart from the modern competitors on the road. The top speed of 80mph can afford you the time to reach your destination in comfort and a wardrobe to suit, you will look the part too. The MG Owners Club have members all over the country, in Europe and in America, so your network of friends could grow as soon as you hop into this car with such a fine community of enthusiasts, your weekends will be filled with scrambles, rallies, picnics and as it is a Pre – 1966 car you have an instant access to many car parks such as Goodwood Revival and the like. 

Our estimate for this car is £18,000 - £26,000.

Viewing is always encouraged and as stated this car is located at our Abingdon headquarters; we are open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm and to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing to make an appointment. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.