1950 MG TD                                              Re...

Estimate

£9,000 - £12,000

1950 MG TD                                             

Registration Number: NHN 370     
Chassis Number: TD 1176
Recorded Mileage: 61,100 miles

- In current ownership since 1969
- Fitted with 1350cc engine

The MG TD ‘Midget’ was introduced in January 1950 to replace the by then legendary TC model, fitted with a 1256cc engine as standard. The new TD combined the TC’s drivetrain, a modified hypoid-geared rear axle, the MG Y-Type chassis, a familiar T-Type style body and independent suspension using coil springs from the MG Y-Type Saloon. Also new; the rack and pinion steering, smaller 15-inch disc type road wheels, a left hand drive option and standard equipment bumpers with overriders. The car was five inches wider with a track of 50 inches. In 1950, the TD Mk. II was introduced alongside the standard car, featuring a more highly tuned engine with 8.0:1 compression ratio giving 57bhp at 5500rpm. The TD featured twin fuel pumps, revised dampers, and a higher rear-axle ratio. Nearly 30,000 MG TD’s were produced, including some 1,700 Mk. II models.

When the series ended in 1953, all but 1,656 were exported with 23,488 of them to the United States. An example tested by ‘The Motor’ magazine in 1952 had a top speed of 77mph and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 18.2 seconds.

According to factory records this original RHD example was built on 3rd April 1950, to be registered to its first owner, a Mr. Scott of Darlington, under a week later. Mr. Scott was obviously keen to get his hands on his new sports car!

“Elspeth” was acquired by our vendor back in 1969, who proceeded to set about a sympathetic restoration of the car, which included attention to the ash frame. Originally finished in black, the TD is now presented in red with a tan leather interior. The engine was previously rebuilt by marque experts Xpag Engineering, bored and stroked to now 1350cc, and usefully now also accepts unleaded fuel. We understand the car is “on the button” and drives exceptionally well for its age. The convertible roof has been replaced, as have the tonneau and side screens.

Offered with original 1950 buff log book, current V5, a large number of invoices, older MoT certificates, also correspondence and photographs documenting works carried out, what a great ticket to shows, club meets and tours, or simply a charming way to get around in the summer months.