1954 MG TF 1250

6 Bids Winner - mcsl
8:00 PM, 06 Jul 2023Vehicle sold
Sold for

£22,260

(inc. Buyer’s Premium)
Winner - mcsl

Background

Launched 15th October 1953, the TF Midget was a facelifted TD brought in as a stop gap whilst the managing director of BMC, Leonard Lord, had commissioned the Healey 100, meaning that the MGA which the MG engineers were set to build had to be put on hold for a few years. The TF faced a mixed reception upon its introduction and had some hard competition to fight against.

Despite this slightly turbulent birth into the market, the TF saw sales figures of 9600 in 19 months, which is a commendable achievement. Now enjoyed by a large number of MG enthusiasts and followers, the TF is a great throwback and one that can be enjoyed just as much as the models that superseded it. Not bad for a stop gap car at all.

  • HDC26/1488
  • 78298
  • 1250
  • manual
  • Black
  • Light Tan
  • Right-hand drive
  • Petrol

Vehicle location
Bonhams|Cars Online HQ, United Kingdom

Background

Launched 15th October 1953, the TF Midget was a facelifted TD brought in as a stop gap whilst the managing director of BMC, Leonard Lord, had commissioned the Healey 100, meaning that the MGA which the MG engineers were set to build had to be put on hold for a few years. The TF faced a mixed reception upon its introduction and had some hard competition to fight against.

Despite this slightly turbulent birth into the market, the TF saw sales figures of 9600 in 19 months, which is a commendable achievement. Now enjoyed by a large number of MG enthusiasts and followers, the TF is a great throwback and one that can be enjoyed just as much as the models that superseded it. Not bad for a stop gap car at all.

Video

Overview

The typed-out summary of the vehicle states it was built in December of 1953 and exported to Australia for registration a year later. Originally painted red with a tan interior, at some point it made its way to the US where it is possible it underwent a restoration owing to the fact it is now black with ‘biscuit’ trim and the handwritten note in the driver’s manual stating the engine and transmission was rebuilt 08/2001 at 73,000 miles.

It eventually made its way back to the UK in 2016/17 with 77,000 miles on the clock (meaning only 4000 miles have been driven with the newly rebuilt engine) and a raft of other parts refurbished and replaced at a total cost of £7900. It now comes to us for auction, ready for its next UK owner.

Exterior

This MG is a marvellous looking thing. The black colour really suits its lines and design features, and the biscuit hood/upholstery is a wonderful contrast. Body panels around the car are in great condition with no obvious dents, damage, or chipping visible. The chromework is in good condition too with little pitting if any around the car and to add to that, the side rails and side screens are new items.

Also new are the wire wheels plus the tyres, giving the MG a huge dose of classic styling. The hood is new, as is the frame, and the tonneau cover and fittings have also been replaced with new items to complete the refurb.

Everything is reported to be working on the exterior, and the fitting of LED indicator bulbs allows for indication whilst being housed in the clear light fittings. A fantastically kept and clearly well looked after example, this MG is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.

Interior

One of the highlights of the car has to be the interior, helped in no small part by the biscuit-coloured upholstery. A stark contrast to the deep lustre of the black painted bodywork, the interior is a joy, packed with character that is sorely missing in much of today’s modern cars.

The large size of the cream coloured steering wheel allows for ease of movement at slow speeds and presents in great original condition. Sat behind it are the three dials giving you all the information you need to keep an eye on things whilst out on the road. They are housed with charming octagonal bezels in the central dash, that also house the switches for the vehicle, sat underneath a padded dash section.

The black carpet looks to be in great condition if not near new, with very little wear. A previous owner has also saw fit to include a fire extinguisher and emergency puncture repair kit to cater for all eventualities.

We’d encourage a scour through the photos below to see how good the interior of this car is for yourself, as whilst not a huge space, it certainly isn’t lacking in character.

Mechanical

Stunning on top and no different underneath, mentions of recent refurbishment add to the reassurance that this car is as good as it looks underneath as well as on top. There is very little to point out in the way of issues underneath. Protected with underseal and with all components still wearing their paint well, there is very little that causes worry or draws the eye visually under the MG and bidders are treated to some great photos of the underside from which to draw their own conclusions.

Singing the praises of the underside condition, the engine bay also holds its own gems with the bright red XPAG 1250cc engine gleaming in the surrounding black painted bay. Clearly been afforded the utmost of care and attention, the engine looks and sounds fantastic as you can see/hear in the photo gallery and video below.

Visually we cannot see any split hoses, wires or pipes and there are no signs of fluid leaks or weeping sections. The polished silver valve cover and twin carburettors add a touch of bling to the classic looking power unit and will have you opening the bonnet at every occasion just to show it off.

History

The MG comes with a good service history including its original operation manual, a current V5C, a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, two sets of keys and a clean HPI check.

The MG was originally sold in Australia and exported to the US before returning to home shores here in the UK in 2016. The paperwork is from the UK only and any documentation from its time in Aus or the USA has not been presented with the car.

Not to worry though, as the car is known in the MG car club and can be verified by them too. This along with a drawn-up summary of everything completed since its time here should put buyers at ease, if the photos of this stunning vehicle don’t.

Summary

This early example of the MG TF has been across the globe but has obviously been passed from one careful and conscientious owner to the next. Starting out in Aus and after a spell in the US, the MG is back home and with a new lease of life. All it needs now is a new owner to show it off like it deserves and we’re confident it will find a perfect home here through Bonhams|Cars Online.

We estimate that it will sell for £24,000-£30,000.

Viewing is always encouraged, and this particular car is located with us at the Bonhams|Cars Online HQ near Abingdon; we are open weekdays 9am-5pm, to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.

About this auction

Seller

Trade: james harvey


Viewings Welcome

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and is strictly by appointment. To book one in the diary, please get in contact.

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