1952 MG TD

Description

The MG TD represents the last of the true open-fendered British sports cars. The TF that followed offered slightly more streamlined looks in a bid to keep the cars competitive, but for many there's just no substitute for the delicate fenders and free-standing headlights that the TD offers. This attractive 1952 TD makes it easy to understand why so many people found these cars so appealing in the early days of sports cars, and even today it is a wonderful machine that is a pleasure to drive.

Finished in Carolina blue with white fenders (to honor the Tar Heels, obviously), this car isn't quite factory correct, but it has a sunny look that invites you to go out and have some fun in the sun. It's an older restoration that has held up well and today presents as a nicely sorted MG that's ready to drive and enjoy immediately, and you won't have to worry about scratching a flawless paint job so having fun will be easy. Restored MGs are typically even better than new, as five decades of knowledge can be applied, and this one fits together extremely well with nice gaps and smooth panel work that still looks great. The cut-down doors fit well and close easily, the sweeping fenders show only a few signs of road use, and only purists will know that the color combination isn't factory-spec. It also offers bright crisp chrome, and contrasting black windlace was used throughout the body to tie the whole car together and give you lots of interesting details to enjoy.

The brown vinyl interior was probably restored at the same time as the bodywork, and while the car is small, passenger space is impressive. This one uses an unusual combination of separate lower cushions and a single backrest, which makes it easy to get comfortable, and the steering wheel was moved to the left side for US-bound cars, something the TC never received. The driving position is perfect for aggressive motoring and an array of beautifully restored Jaeger instruments duplicate the original driving experience. With those cut-down doors, it's hard to resist reaching out to touch the pavement at red lights, and there are handy storage compartments in the doors and behind the seat. There's also a black vinyl top that's easy enough to erect and stow, but given the minimalist weather protection, it's best saved for emergencies.

Power comes from a sprightly 1250 cc inline-four that powered MGs for many years. It makes great sports car noises, winding through the gears with a mechanical precision that belies its modest price. Dressed in correct MG maroon paint, the diminutive engine uses a pair of SU carburetors to make the most of its abilities, and it pulls the roadster around with a gutsy engine note thanks to a low-restriction exhaust system. The engine bay shows signs of conscientious maintenance and lots of original equipment, from the generator to the attractive polished aluminum air intake assembly. Underneath, the chassis is pretty original, but it's totally serviceable and in great shape with no obvious signs of trouble. Add in a set of handsome wire wheels with knock offs and up-to-date Michelin tires, and you have a great-looking British roadster that has a lot of tradition behind it.

For affordable summer fun, it's awfully hard to beat a vintage MG. Sorted and ready for years of happy motoring without any major additional investment, this TD is as wonderful to drive as it is to look at. Call today!