Background
The T-Series line of MGs began before Second World War with the TA, first produced in 1936. The TB followed early in 1939. After a pause to produce armoured cars, aeroplane engines and tanks for the war effort, the much-loved TC was born.
With improved suspension and more passenger space, the TC was to remain in production for around four years before being superseded by, you’ve guessed it, the TD.
Evolution rather than revolution was the story, with the car’s appearance little altered. MG enthusiasts were a little aghast to see the abandonment of the traditional wire wheels for some pressed steelies. It was all about saving cash and improving the ride quality. Engine and transmission were carry over items, so performance was brisk rather than startling.
America fell in love with the TD and most of the 30,000 cars produced headed Stateside. By 1953 sales had begun to flag so time once again for a new model.
However, the Austin-dominated management would only sanction what was effectively a face-lift of the TD. As such, all the MG Car Company could do was make some cosmetic changes to the bodywork and call it the TF.
The first cars were produced in September 1953 and the reception was a tad lukewarm. It was obvious that all MG had done was tweak the engine, modify the bodywork and bumpers a tad and fit some comfortable bucket seats.
It wasn’t all bad news as wire wheels made a comeback as a standard fitment.
A year later there was the realisation that the venerable 1250cc engine TF lacked the performance of its rivals, so July 1954 saw a more powerful 1466 motor fitted and thus the TF 1500 was born.
Power was up from 57 to 63bhp and torque by a massive 17%, thus making the TF the car it should have been from the start.
By April 1955, the powers that be knew that something more modern was required and so, after just 18 months in production, the TF 1500 was quietly retired and the factory geared up to start producing the MGA.
