1952 MG TD 1250

Although instantly recognisable as a T-Series Midget thanks to its perpendicular radiator shell, flowing wings and rear-mounted spare wheel, the TD broke important new ground for the Abingdon marque. Although based on the existing Y-Type chassis, it was the first MG sports car to feature independent double-wishbone front suspension, and rack and pinion steering and the new model also boasted a hypoid-bevel back axle, a scuttle reinforcement hoop and twin leading-shoe front brakes.

With a track of 50", it was around five inches wider than its predecessor, the TC, which always a little ‘cosy’. Powered by the proven 1,250cc XPAG engine allied to a 4-speed manual transmission, it was reputedly capable of 82mph and 26mpg. Riding on 15" steel 'easy-clean' wheels as standard, the TD also sported a mirror-image dashboard (thus facilitating either LHD or RHD production) and chrome-plated bumpers. In July 1951 the 1,250cc XPAG engine received a new block, sump, bell-housing and 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. A great success story, the vast majority of the 29,665 cars produced were sold overseas, mainly to the States.

The simply delectable TD2 on offer here was one of those US-bound cars, and was imported from there by its present owner around ten-years ago, with a total rebuild in mind. The little MG was basically sound but a little tired, and was ripe for restoration, however other projects got in the way and it was a further six years before the restoration commenced. However all’s well that ends well as the TD has recently been completed after a total, professional nut and bolt, chassis-up restoration to the very highest of standards, and presents as possibly one of the very best on the road today.

Finished in the rare factory colour of Autumn Red, the standard of finish is exceptional, even down to the door shuts and nooks and crannies. The interior is also a delight in beige leather with beige rexine on the dashboard, white-faced Jaeger instruments, Bakelite switches and a four-spoke Bluemels sprung wheel. The only minor difference from standard being the body-coloured grille slats, which should match the interior trim colour, but in reality appear as if designed that way. Nothing remains untouched, with engine, gearbox and final drive being rebuilt, a full rewire and total re-chrome alongside a new hood, side screens and a new tonneau cover that will require fitting.

The attention to detail is textbook and even the underside is of show-quality. Whilst the MG remains left-hand drive, all mounts and fixing points remain in place to allow for easy conversion to right-hand drive should the next custodian wish to follow that path. With only minor shake-down runs undertaken so far, a period of running-in is highly recommended to extract the best from this stunning TD.

Not to be confused with the average, this particular TD will be equally at home out on the open road or in the Concours arena.