1950 | MG TD Midget

The MG T-series Midget first appeared in 1936 and production of the model ran until 1955, passing through a number of iterations, from the TA to TF. As might be expected, with each new series launched the car was improved with better mechanicals, a little more power and grew in size and (relative) sophistication. Always a good seller, by the mid ‘50s however, the pre-War origins were obvious and the model was as replaced with the new – and thoroughly modern – MGA. A little over 50,000 T-series cars were constructed.

The TD Midget was announced in January 1950 and represented a considerable upgrade over the earlier TC model. The focus of the changes made was to make the new model more appealing to the US market – in a bid to boost lucrative export sales. The key areas for improvement were better, smoother, ride and handling, together with a few more driver creature comforts, whilst retaining the familiar styling and straightforward engineering. To this end, the TD employed a different chassis, revised suspension front and rear; rack and pinion steering; a reduction in the wheel size from 19 inch wires to 15 inch steel rims with wider tyres. The car was 5 inches wider overall and used a new 4-speed transmission with revised differential. Whilst performance was largely similar to the outgoing TC, this was a more comfortable car helped by heater and radio options.

The revisions were a successful move and, of the 30,000 or so TD models built by the time production ceased in 1953, nearly all were exported, with the vast majority going to the US.

We have no early history for this export market, right hand drive TD other than that it was originally registered in the UK, in June 1950. We understand that around 1250 RHD export machines were built in 1950 – although it appears this one never actually made it overseas. Purchased by a Jersey resident in 2006, the car was imported and re-registered in the island. Since that point it has largely remained garaged, with only limited local use, covering well under 1,000 miles in the last 20 years.

The MG TD used the same 1250 cc, four-cylinder XPAG engine from the outgoing TC model. When road tested by The Motor magazine in 1952, they recorded a top speed of 77 mph and 0–60 mph acceleration time of 18.2 seconds. Although only very lightly used in the island, the MG has been regularly serviced and maintained by local specialist garages. The car runs and drives very well. A stainless steel silencer and exhaust is fitted.

With a solid chassis and good Ivory paintwork, the MG is very smart and looks well. All brightwork is present and the chrome-plated hubcaps are a handsome addition to the painted steel wheels. The colour-coordinated red hood is in good condition and is accompanied by matching sidescreens.

The red trim of the MG is very tidy and the seats have a pleasing appearance (possibly the original interior). The dashboard is intact and complete, but the car does not have the optional heater that was made available for the model.

Whilst not in concours condition, this is a sound, solid, tidy and original looking example of an MG TD, which has been very well looked after and maintained during its life. Looking good and driving well, it is ready to be enjoyed by a new owner.

The car is currently Jersey registered and we can assist with shipping (worldwide) and importation processes if required. The 4-digit Jersey registration number shown in the accompanying photos is not included in the sale.