1954 MG TF 1500 MIDGET

With its roots dating back to the 1930s, this matching-numbers 1955 MG TF 1500 Midget abounds with charm and nostalgia. Under that patina of its original interior and period appearance are a few choice upgrades. Powered by a 1.5-litre inline-four cylinder engine, coupled to a four-speed manual gearbox, this British roadster was tinkered with by its previous owner to produce more than the factory’s claim of 63hp (47kW), allowing it to keep pace with modern traffic. A certified copy of the factory records from BMI Heritage Trust confirms its original specification; including factory fitted wire spoke wheels. The odometer shows 13,147 miles, though this is not warranted.

Delivered new to Australia aboard the ‘Chantala’ from England in 1955, it was originally red with a matching red interior and biscuit coloured roof. The red interior remains, showing its age but remarkably intact, with only the carpeting known to have been replaced.

Many years ago, the car was repainted in the current Light Yellow hue, using an acrylic lacquer that has since faded in some sections. The finish is far from perfect today, with cracks, chips and scrapes found across the body, and there are also swirl marks visible on the bonnet. All panels are however free of dents and there are no signs of surface or structural rust – a testament to it having lived its entire life to date in Australia.

Included are reproduction side-screens, a folding roof, and two zippered tonneau covers – one red, the other tan to match the roof and screens, allowing just the driver to travel in a semi-enclosed cockpit. All of the wet-weather gear is in very good condition, and fits snugly.

Only approximately 3,400 of the larger-engined TF 1500 models were built; mostly fitted with steel wheels rather than the spoked wheels as found on this example. The tyres are old but are in reasonable shape with lots of tread depth, and a pair of unrestored spoked wheels are also included.

All glazing is present and intact, with a fold-down windscreen ahead of a pair of aero screens. The front and rear lenses are in great shape, but one Lucas driving light is no longer fitted. All external brightwork and rubber trims are present and in fair condition, with pitting and scratches in various places.

The current owner has driven this sparingly since purchasing it two years ago. The car is complete, and only modified mechanically for practical reasons. Approximately 500 miles prior to selling it to the current owner, the previous owner treated it to a full engine rebuild, fitting a forged racing crank from P. Brady, installing new +40 Mahle pistons, new-old-stock ‘Vandervell’ bearings, new valves and seats, and a mild ‘Watson’ cam. The crank, con-rods, pistons, flywheel and clutch were all dynamically balanced. It also had its differential rebuilt, with a higher ratio fitted for cruising speeds (though the original parts are included). Since then, the current owner has only fitted a new float seal and needle on the rear carburettor.

What appears to be its original owner’s manual is included, together with a reproduction factory workshop manual, a set of period tools, and the aforementioned BMI Heritage Trust certificate.

This matching-numbers MG TF 1500 presents a great opportunity to purchase a usable and affordable classic car that turns heads and strikes up a conversation anywhere. It can be enjoyed right away, without any concerns about it being too pristine to be used, but it could also be a sound basis for a ground-up restoration if desired.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.