1952 MG TD Midget

The MG T-series, for most enthusiasts, epitomises the spirit of the Abingdon marque, delivering a blend of lively performance, vintage styling and above all, the sort of wind-in-the-hair driving experience one expects from a traditional British sports car. The original T-series Midget was launched before the war, evolving into the short-lived TB and TC models, before the TD was announced in November 1949, bringing with it the first major attempt at restyling since the end of WWII. With a track widened by some five inches to improve interior space, along with new independent coil spring front suspension and rack and pinion steering (sourced from the Y-type), the TD was sold with steel disc wheels in place of the previously used wire-spoked items and bumpers (with over-riders) were standard equipment as well. The interior was revised to make it more habitable but retained the flavour of the original T-series, with folding windscreen, full instrumentation, and a minimum of superfluous decoration. Powering the TD was essentially the same XPAG 1250cc engine in use since 1939, but an increased compression ratio from 1950 saw power up from 55bhp to 60bhp and, in July 1951, the XPAG received a new block, a new sump, a new bell-housing and a new flywheel in order to accommodate a larger clutch. The engine number prefix was changed to TD2, and MG TDs fitted with this engine have subsequently become known as TD2 models. With the sports car movement in the United States in full swing, it wasn't surprising that the vast majority of TD production crossed the Atlantic.

Now finished in Old English White with the correct green grille slats and a superb Apple Green interior, this original, left-hand drive TD2 has undergone a chassis-up restoration and conversion to right-hand drive. Delivered new to California in 1952 before returning to the UK in 1986, the rebuild was commenced by a retired engineer in 1996 before finally reaching fruition some 25 years later in 2019. As is evident from our images, no stone was left unturned during this comprehensive and long term project from the chassis and body through all mechanical components to the trim and final detailing, all areas received fastidious attention. The sprung steering wheel looks original as do the instruments and switches, however, the dashboard and the door cards wear fresh Rexine and the bespoke monogrammed carpets finish off the lovely cockpit. As you might expect the engine bay is tidy and very impressive. The odometer currently reads 209 miles which we guess is post-restoration, so a further period of running-in is advised to bring the best out of this delightful MG. Some 70 years have passed since TD14680 rolled off the production line, however, it's once again resplendent in its traditional colour scheme and original specification including the delightful steel wheels as it would have been all those years ago. An instantly recognisable T-Series MG, extensively rebuilt and awaiting its next custodian.