1951 MG TD

Built in 1951 this example was subsequently exported to the United States. Whilst across the pond it is thought to have undergone an extensive restoration process. The car was then re-imported to the United Kingdom in 2019 where it has had a large amount spent on it, around £7,000, which includes refurbishment of the 4-speed gearbox, cleaned fuel tank and work undertaken on the electrics. The car has also benefitted from a new distributor and HT leads. 

Since its re-introduction to the UK, the MG has travelled very few miles and when it has not been used it has been sorted in a clean and dry location.

The exterior of the MG TD is rather quite stunning. It features a classic British roadster design with the long bonnet, a large front grille and fenders that partially cover the wheels. It’s a timeless piece of British design and engineering that to this day still has an elegance that draws the attention of passers by wherever you go. 

Whilst we were photographing the vehicle we saw no signs of rust or corrosion anywhere on the vehicle. The paintwork, as you would expect, looks fantastic, with no obvious imperfections to note. The same can be said for the panel gaps, which all appear to be straight with no dinks or dents that we saw. 

The wheels on the MG TD look fantastic too. All four wheels and tyres are in good condition with no signs of any pitting or corrosion that we noticed, with the tyres equally looking to be in a well presented state. 

The chromework and lights around the car are in line with the rest of the vehicle's condition. They’re still lustrous, even in high impact areas such as the front end. We saw no signs of any pitting on any of the chromework. The lights on a car of this era are usually the first to fall victim to aging. This is not the case with this particular example. All lights located on the MG are crystal clear with no signs of any fading from the sun, no cracks or discolouration that we noticed. A testament to how well looked after this MG has been over the years.

The convertible soft-top roof is a key feature and one that allows users to enjoy open air motoring when the British weather allows. The roof is holding up exceptionally well. There are no signs of any rips or tears that we could see and we are informed that the roof should still be watertight, although the current owner cannot verify this as the car has never been used in sub-par conditions. 

Upon opening the doors of the TD you are greeted with a simple, yet well presented cabin that is made up of some fine materials. Whilst we cannot comment on the originality of these materials, we can certainly tell you that it looks fantastic. Opening the doors you are greeted with MG branding on the sills, a lovely detail that is often overlooked. 

The front bench presents beautifully. The red leather is fresh and free from any of the usual wear marks or shine that is often common in vehicles that sport leather on the seats. The door-cards are finished in the same material and equally look fantastic especially with the contrasting cream stitching running atop of the door card. There are no marks, rips or tears that we could see. 

Up front, the dashboard and steering wheel look to be in good order. The wooden dash is clean and free from any imperfections. The chromework where the dials and switches are housed shows minor signs of patina but we feel this adds character to the vehicle. The glass that houses the dials for the speedo, rev counter, oil temperature and battery output, is looking a little misted but nothing untoward. The steering wheel does appear to have a split on the right hand side. 

Carpet throughout the MG is in great shape and we saw no signs of it going threadbare.

From looking over the engine bay everything appears to be in good order, with no signs of any leaks that we could see. The TD starts and runs as it should do with nothing untoward to note. We are informed that the gearbox selects gears with ease and that there is no crunching or grinding when selecting any of the gears. The owner of this MG states that it is a real pleasure to drive on the road, albeit not fast, but the driving experience is unmatched. 

Underneath, the MG is very clean indeed. There are no signs of any rust that we could see on the vehicle and it is looking extremely tidy for its age. We are informed that the vehicle has only seen use of the road when the conditions are optimum, ensuring that it stays clean and free from road grime such as salt. 

The MG uses a traditional suspension system with coil springs on the front and semi-elliptic leaf springs in the rear. Because of this, the MG is characterised by a lively and responsive feel, making it a popular choice for those whom enjoy spirited driving. 

The car comes with some history but not much. The V5C is present and there is some paperwork that documents mechanical work that has been completed. It is apparent when viewing this paperwork that the previous owner has not spared any expense in ensuring that this vehicle is kept in fine condition with a handful of invoices totalling over £1,000 in expenditure. 

This TD MG is a wonderful example and ready to be enjoyed by someone new. The car is pretty and in very good order, with there being only a few minor signs of aging to be aware of. Whilst the new owner may chose to rectify these things, as the car sits it’s ready to be driven away and enjoyed for many more years to come. We estimate that it will sell for £15,000-£20,000.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located with the vendor in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk. Viewings are strictly by appointment. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.