Description

1954 MG TF 1250

Fewer than 11,000 miles since full restoration; only two owners since 1965; original UK car with vast history file extending back over 50 years; a cherished TF in very good order throughout

Last of the MG T-Series line and arguably the best, the TF was introduced in October 1953. Although mechanically very similar to its TD predecessor, the provision of a shorter radiator, revised wing line and faired-in headlamps lent it an altogether sportier air.
Equipped with rack-and-pinion-steering, independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension and four-wheel drum brakes, the new model helped maintain the marque's 'Safety Fast' reputation. Initially powered by a twin-carburettor 57bhp 1,250cc XPAG four-cylinder engine, the TF was offered with a 63bhp 1,466cc XPEG motor from November 1954 onwards. Production ended early in April 1955 after 9,600 TFs had been manufactured, the vast majority of them being sold into the American market.
This TF is therefore something of a rarity, being first registered in Hertfordshire in August 1954. As the original buff logbook and other correspondence on file confirms, SRO 267 had three private owners before being acquired from Parade Motors of Mitcham in October 1965 by a Dr Peter Hill of London who was to keep it right up until 2012 when the current keeper acquired it.
During his 47-year ownership, Dr (later Professor) Hill kept detailed records of the car which show that it was involved in a minor accident in 1967 and then put into storage at his parents’ home in Eastbourne where it was to remain until the late-1980s. It was then sent to Roger F Thomas Classic Restorations of Kew for a total rebuild which ultimately took nine years to complete (1988 – 1996). Rather a long time, admittedly, but in the restorer’s defence he did replace just about every nut and bolt (including a full engine and gearbox rebuild) judging by the vast number of worksheets and invoices on file!
A multitude of other invoices testify to meticulous upkeep over the following two decades, numerous old MOTs showing that the car has covered fewer than 11,000 miles since the restoration was completed. As you can see the MG remains in lovely order throughout, its nicely mellowed condition being testament to the high quality of the work carried out by the painstaking Roger Thomas. A full set of weather gear is also included (hood; sidescreens; tonneau cover).
Starting promptly and running nicely as we have moved it around on site, this ‘matching numbers’, UK-supplied TF needs nothing more than a caring new owner who can continue to cherish it as the last two have over the past 55 years.
For more information contact James on 07970 309907 or email james.dennison@brightwells.com