Make: | MG |
Model: | T-Series |
Type: | Convertible |
Year: | 1953 |
Mileage: | 1,000 |
VIN: | 28495/7548 |
Color: | Black |
Engine: | 1250 XPAG |
Cylinders: | 4 |
Fuel: | Gasoline |
Transmission: | Manual |
Drive type: | RWD |
Interior color: | Red |
Vehicle Title: | Clear |
Item location: | Punta Gorda, Florida, United States |
THE 1950-1953 MGTD
MG's TC roadster sold well initially and proved American demand for an English sports car, but the car's right-hand-drive configuration and 1930s specifications meant it was ripe for a redesign by 1950. The 1950 to 1953 TD also carried a few modifications aimed at the U.S. market. Specifically, left-hand drive was offered, along with rack-and-pinion steering, smaller, 15-inch steel disc wheels (no wire wheels were offered), and larger bumpers. In turn, the car was wider and 200 pounds heavier than the TC. Keeping with its predecessor, the TD's weather protection was minimal.
The MG TD still used the 54-hp, 1,250-cc XPAG inline-four motor to reach a top speed in the mid-70 mph range. The TD's modifications conspired with a newly devalued British pound to make the TD an unqualified success and 29,664 were sold in four years - three times the TC production. More than 80% of the total production was imported to the U.S. In the middle of 1951, the TD received a new engine block and sump, as well as a larger clutch and a new flywheel, and this iteration is now commonly referred to as the TD2.
In general, the MG T-Series delivers a pure 1940s / early 1950s pleasurable British driving experience and the TD is no exception. Its mechanicals are robust and mostly easy to source, which makes ownership relatively straightforward.
This TD2 car was restored by the previous owner in 1998-2000 and was driven for one year (approximately 1000 miles in 2001) before he passed away. In 2013 the kids decided to sell the car and I bought it in 2014. I have had many British cars and always wanted a T-series. The speedometer showed 98000 miles when I bought it. It had new tires, side curtains and top. After being idle and garage stored for such a long time, work needed to be done. The carbs were rebuilt with new parts. Compression was normal on all four cylinders. The brakes were completely redone replacing all the wheel cylinders and master cylinder (New shoes on all 4 axles). Trans and diff fluids were changed. Carpets removed and cleaned from the storage. Gas tank cleaned and flushed. After the first drive while in my possession, it was clear the cooling system was inadequate. After flushing, cleaning, thermostat check, new temperature sensor, we still had a problem. I then had a new radiator core installed in the original radiator housing. Problem solved.
The identifying numbers appear on two brass plates on the driver's side firewall tool box. These show:
- Body Type: 22381
- Body Number: 28495 / 7548
- Car #: TD 29258
The car runs and drives very well. It starts immediately when cold and equally as well once it is fully warmed up. This TD is a driver. It took me over a year to get it on the road again and I drive it almost every day.
The MGTD does not pull to the left or right, or exhibit any drivability issues. MG enthusiasts will notice that the instrumentation is MG period correct. The MG runs at normal operating temperature. The other gauges are fully functional (speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, ampmeter) as are the lights, horn and the turn signals. Engine oil pressure typically reads 30-40+ lbs. is well within the normal operating specifications.
This car is underpriced to sell quickly at $20500. I can help with delivery