1954 MG TF

Description

For summer fun, it's hard to beat a vintage MG. With a massive aftermarket and knowledgeable enthusiast network, these are inexpensive, reliable, easy-to-repair cars that are ideal for the hobbyist who likes to drive his hardware. This 1954 MG TF is an extremely nice example that's ready to drive and enjoy with a lot of recent work and a classic British Racing Green paint job.

The MG TF was the last of the full-fendered British sports roadsters, a graceful evolution of the MG TD that was a stop-gap measure until the new MGA was ready in 1955. There's no mistaking the shape, and if you long for the traditional British roadster feel, this is the best way to experience it. The paint and bodywork are nicely done in the most iconic of colors, and there's just enough metallic in the finish to make it really glow in the sun. Fit and finish are quite good, surely better than original, and it has a solid feel going down the road that's many restorers find tough to replicate. Chrome and other brightwork remains in fantastic condition, and this car is equipped with accessories like wind wings, a rear-mounted luggage rack, and a host of side mirrors that are probably quite useful in a small car like this among today's SUVs.

The tan leather interior was refinished in 2002 and shows only very minor use since then. The seats, carpets, half-tonneau, and door panels were all new at that time and today show a lovely patina that's ideal in a vintage British roadster. The big banjo-style steering wheel is wrapped in a matching leather cover that's easy to grip, and the glove box lids are wood, which is a nice old-world touch in the largely hand-built MG. The original gauges are fully functional and use octagon-shaped lenses that mirror the MG logo, but there is no radio so enjoy the song of the burly engine instead. The original tonneau cover is included, and it fits well, an important feature indeed. The shifter knob is aftermarket (the original is included) and a 12-volt power outlet is included for things like your GPS or cell phone charger, which is a thoughtful touch.

The engine is the original 1250 cc inline-four, which doesn't seem like much until you see how little car it has to contend with. The joy of the British roadster is its ability to run hard without getting in over its head, and the TF is a joy to drive. Rebuilt about 14,000 miles ago, it starts quickly and idles well through twin SU carburetors as original. An auxiliary fan has been added to help cooling during low-speed events, and there's a spin-on oil filter that probably makes a big difference in ease of maintenance. Clutch take-up is light, the 4-speed manual gearbox offers delightfully precise shifts, and a new wiring harness eliminates the biggest worry with British cars: the electrical system. Straight gray-painted wire wheels look right and wear suitably-sized 165R16 Remington radials that really help ride and handling.

Classic fun that will always bring a smile to your face, the TF is also a smart investment, with prices starting to move. Don't wait, call today!