Lot details
Registration No: 558 XUR
Chassis No: TD9330
Mot Expiry: Aug 2010

Although instantly recognisable as a member of the T-Series family of MGs thanks to its perpendicular radiator shell, flowing wings and rear-mounted spare wheel, the TD broke new ground for the Abingdon marque. It was the first MG sports car to feature either coil spring independent front suspension or rack-and-pinion steering - innovations pioneered in the Y-type saloon. The newcomer also boasted a hypoid bevel rear axle, hidden scuttle reinforcement hoop and twin leading shoe front brakes. Powered by the company's proven 1250cc XPAG engine mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, the TD was said to be capable of some 82mph and around 26mpg. Riding on 15in steel wheels as standard, the model sported a 'mirror image' facia (to facilitate the option of LHD or RHD production) and chrome plated bumpers. The TD was a British success story with 29,665 examples produced between 1949 and 1953, all but around 1,600 of which were exported - some 23,500 went to the USA alone.

The left-hand drive 1952 TD on offer is thought to have started life in the USA, from where it was returned to Britain in 2000 (the duty receipt is included in the car's history file). The two-seater was recently the subject of much restoration work, at which time it was granted the UK registration number '558 XUR'. The body was resprayed in the original colour of Ivory white, a new hood and tonneau fitted, the seats (red leather), carpets and trim panels renewed and the gearbox overhauled. The vendor informs us that the engine "starts and pulls well" but notes the ammeter and rev-counter are not working at present. Also, despite its refurbishment, there is still some noise coming from the four-speed manual gearbox. The TD is MOT'd and taxed until August and will be driven to the sale from Hampshire. A number of receipts relating to the restoration and associated photos are contained within the car's history file. If you accept that the pretty, more modern-looking TF was a relatively short-lived stop-gap model prior to the introduction of the radically different Syd Enever-penned MGA, the TD was really the last of a long line of classic MGs. It's very easy to understand why they have a large and loyal following.