Before World War II, MG built exotic and powerful small-bore sports cars that were practically unheard of on this side of the pond. But that began to change in the late 1930s when MG adopted the robust and affordable XPAG engine from Morris into their new T-series. When production resumed post-war, MG’s formula of charming pre-war styling in a light and nimble package struck a chord with buyers, particularly American servicemen who caught the sports car racing bug while serving in Europe.

The small Abingdon-based sports car company suddenly found plenty of Americans eager to get one of their spindly Midget TC roadsters, which was the antithesis to the typical underpowered, overweight American car of the late 40s. In 1950, the TC evolved into the TD, which maintained elements of the pre-war look but with modernized details and a host of improvements. The TD offered a roomier cabin, and thanks to the independent front suspension and low weight, it still had sharp handling and performance. At places like Watkins Glen, Elkhart Lake, and Pebble Beach, MGs packed the grids of small-bore classes and were a dominant force on the track.

As competition increased, MG sales began to slip as buyers leaned toward more modern cars. The new fully enveloped MGA was in the works, but it was not ready by the time TD sales slumped. In 1953, MG introduced the stopgap TF Midget, which had sharp new styling with faired-in headlamps and a rakish, laid-back radiator grille, albeit masking the TD body tub. The TF was fun, pretty, and full of character. Mechanically, it represented a simple evolution of the TD, with independent front suspension, sharp rack and pinion steering, and the famously robust XPAG OHV four-cylinder engine. Later TFs got a bump in compression and displacement to make 63 horsepower from 1466 cc. Despite some contemporary criticism (Tom Mc Cahill of Mechanix Illustrated declaring it “Like Mrs. Casey’s dead cat, slightly warmed over”), the TF is a collectible and significant model in MG history. Just 9602 TFs were produced between 1953 and 1955, making them the rarest of the post-war Midget series and paving the way for the game-changing MGA and MGB to follow.

This lovely MG TF is a desirable late production 1500 model, beautifully restored and presented in the original shade of MG Red. This car is one of just 9,600 TFs produced, of which only 3,400 got the 1500 engine. According to the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, this car was built on the 10th of September, 1954, and dispatched three days later for the USA. It shows the original colors are MG Red over a red interior and biscuit hood. It wears a high quality, well-detailed restoration worthy of display in club events or regional concours. The MG red paintwork is excellent, with clean, even reflections in the finish. Chrome bumpers, radiator shell, and exterior trim are all in excellent order. Unlike the TD, the TF featured knock-off wire wheels, and this car rides on factory-correct 15-inch painted wires with period-appropriate Michelin XZX radials for predictable handling.

The restorers took the liberty of changing the interior color from the original red to the arguably more attractive biscuit, using correct materials and fittings. The tan upholstery provides a pleasing contrast against the red paint and ties in beautifully with the tan soft top and boot. The seats are taut and show only the slightest signs of use, and the carpets, door panels, and dash upholstery are all excellent. The cockpit features the factory-style banjo steering wheel, octagonal Jaeger instruments, and correct switchgear. The tan canvas top boot doubles as a full tonneau cover and a complete set of matching side curtains stow behind the seats.

Beneath the split, center-hinged bonnet sits the ultimate evolution of the XPAG inline-four. This example retains its numbers-matching engine per the Heritage Certificate and features correct hardware, clamps, and plumbing. The block is painted the proper shade of dark red, with silver-painted valve cover, alloy carb bodies, and satin black pancake air filters. The quality of the paint is excellent, and the detailing superb throughout the engine bay. A spin-on oil filter adapter provides some additional security, discreetly integrated as not to spoil the period-correct feel. The same quality continues underneath the car, which shows light road use, but is very clean and tidy, including a correct wiring harness and stainless steel exhaust system.

The MG TF 1500 is the rarest of the postwar T-series MGs, and arguably the most stylish. This charming TF is a superb example, restored to a level we rarely encounter on these cars. It is a marvelous choice for touring and club events and is sure to provide years of joyful motoring to its next owner.

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