Description
MG TF Midget | 1954
Highlights:
– 1.25-litre (1250cc) four-cylinder XPAG engine, petrol, four-speed manual transmission
– Left-hand drive export model, manufactured in the UK and shipped new to the USA in 1954
– Repatriated to the UK in 2016 and maintained since 2020 as a running restoration
– Interior refurbished in Arizona prior to repatriation; tyres upgraded from crossply to radial
– Regularly submitted for MOT testing as an independent safety check, with no fails or advisories
The seller offers for sale this 1954 MG TF Midget, powered by a 1.25-litre four-cylinder engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. Originally manufactured in the UK, this left-hand drive export example was shipped to the United States in 1954 and returned to the UK in 2016, before being acquired by the current owner in 2020. The car is largely original, and work carried out in the present ownership has aimed to maintain or restore that originality rather than change it; the steering wheel has been wrapped in leather to improve grip, with the original bakelite rim preserved underneath should a future owner wish to revert it.
The paintwork presents in good condition, while the interior was refurbished in Arizona before the car was brought back to the UK. The tyres have been upgraded from crossply to radial, and the ignition has been converted to electronic, with the original points retained and included with the car. The chrome brightwork remains presentable but shows some signs of its age, and the hood and side screens are present and correct, likewise showing a degree of patina consistent with a car that is used and enjoyed rather than kept purely as a static exhibit. The car has covered modest yearly mileage under the current owner, who reports using it around Yorkshire on dry days and taking it to classic car shows. Despite its historic vehicle exemption, it has been submitted for MOT testing as an independent safety check in most years, without fails or advisories, and the underside is reported to be presented to the same standard as the bodywork. The car is left-hand drive; right-hand drive conversion kits, along with an extensive range of spares, are available from established MG specialists should a future owner wish to convert it. A V5C registration document and further supporting paperwork accompany the car.
The MG TF Midget was launched in October 1953 as a modernisation of the preceding TD, retaining the traditional T-Series body-on-frame construction while adopting a sloping radiator grille, headlights faired into the front wings and a lowered, more streamlined stance that set it apart from its predecessors. Built at MG’s Abingdon works, the TF was the last of the classically styled T-Series Midgets before the marque moved on to the more modern MGA, and it remains prized by enthusiasts for combining vintage-sports-car charm with a simple, accessible mechanical layout that owners can maintain themselves.
Under the bonnet, the TF is powered by the XPAG engine in its final, most developed form, a 1,250cc overhead-valve four-cylinder unit fed by twin SU carburettors and driving through a four-speed manual gearbox. Light weight, direct steering and a short wheelbase give the TF the lively, engaging character typical of the T-Series, while its low build, cutaway doors and long, sweeping wings give it a distinctive silhouette among post-war British sports cars. As one of the last traditionally styled MGs before the marque embraced full envelope bodywork, the TF Midget continues to be a popular choice for owners who want a usable, characterful classic for touring and club events.
4 — Very Good. Clean with minimal wear; might need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
4 — Very Good. Mechanically solid, with potential for minor servicing.
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
