1936 MG TA Roadster Midget 4 Speed Manual 1292cc Inline 4

1936 MG T-Series Midget Additional Info:

The first of the MG T-type, 2-seater roadster came to market in 1936 marketed as the "TA". It replaced the former PB and grew in both length and width. The wheelbase was now a full 7" longer at 94 total inches and the wheel track 3" wider aiding in smoother road manners and better handling. The TA was produced through 1939 with only an estimated 3,000 units ever made. Manufactured by elite craftsmen of that era, these steel bodies were skillfully shaped over ash wood frames. With this level of work involved, they were completed at a rate of just 2 vehicles a day. And very few made it Stateside for this reason.
Power came from a new 1292cc MPJG four-cylinder overhead-valve engine producing 52bhp fitted with twin SU carburetors, four-speed manual gearbox with synchromesh top gears, solid front and rear axles with half-elliptic springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. With its new modern pushrod-actuated overhead valves, the lightweight TA could easily reach speeds approaching 80 miles per hour, with acceleration to 50 miles per hour accomplished in approximately 15 seconds from a standing start – excellent performance in those days!
Finished in British Racing Green and complete with the matching numbers drive train, a rear-mounted spare tire, 48-spoke 19" wire wheels, Firestone 4.50-19 4-ply black sidewall tires, burled walnut dash, complete Jaeger instrumentation, Brooklands steering wheel, Lucas Road King driving lamps, badge bar with horn and fog lamp, electric wipers, and DESMO outside rearview mirror, this 1936 MG-TA is a great first-series example of the long-lived T-Series MG roadsters! This particular unit represents the #412 ever produced! This lovely, early production example T-Series was meticulously restored and maintained within a private Texas collection for many years until 2011, when it was purchased and enjoyed sparingly by the previous Tennessee owner in its wonderful current condition. Odometer reading today shows just 448 miles driven!
Upon arrival to the St. Louis Car Museum, it received a mechanical inspection with a refresh to the overall fuel delivery system along with gasket replacements due to age. This included a brand new gas tank, rebuilt carburetors (new needles/seats and float bowls), new valve & tappet cover gaskets, exhaust gaskets, resealed oil pump, rear axle differential gasket, new rear hub bearings & seals, transmission case shaft bearings, new thermostat, upper radiator hose, and coolant hoses, along with rebuilding the brake master cylinder with new piston and cap. Fresh engine oil, coolant and brake fluids are added in the process. It is splendidly tuned and a joy to drive! Please feel welcome to call with any questions about visiting our showroom for a closer look.