Vehicle Description
The arrival of the T-Type Midget marked a significant turning point
in the history of MG Cars. As a pet project of W.R. Morris, MG was
a boutique manufacturer, and chief designer Cecil Kimber had
near-total autonomy to develop his world-class sporting
automobiles. However, in 1935, Morris sold his interest in MG to
parent company Morris Motors, who had a rather dim view of sporting
cars and motor racing in general. Thankfully, Kimber managed to
keep enough control over operations to develop new MGs using
Morris-based components. He made fine work of it, too - even within
the new corporate overlords looking over his shoulder. The first
model produced under the auspices of the new leadership was the
T-Type Midget. The most significant change was under the bonnet
where Morris Motors eschewed Kimber's advanced but costly
overhead-cam engines in favor of the simpler, cheaper Wolseley
10/40-derived 1,292 cc pushrod four-cylinder. While some MG
loyalists lamented this change, the new TA generally outperformed
the overhead-cam PB while offering improved cockpit space and
passenger comfort, and friendlier manners for daily use. The TA was
quite successful in the home market, setting the stage for MG's
future success through the 1940s and beyond, particularly in the
USA. The TA was available as a standard roadster or with the
optional Tickford drophead coupe coachwork, built by Salmons & Sons
Coachbuilders of Newport Pagnell. Of the approximately 3,000 TAs
produced, just over 250 wore the handsome and luxurious Tickford
coachwork. This lovely TA Tickford is a rare surviving example of
MG's elegant coachbuilt special. Restored to show-quality standards
by a devoted marque enthusiast, it is handsomely presented in
two-tone Cambridge Blue/Oxford Blue livery over blue hides,
accented with subtle red coach lines. It is beautifully detailed
throughout, as demonstrated by the AACA Senior National First Prize
badge from 2015. Details include 19-inch wire wheels finished
correctly in silver, Lucas headlamps, horn, single fog lamp, and
trafficators. Brightwork is used sparingly on the body, though the
chrome radiator shell, lights, and trim pieces are restored to a
high standard, maintained in excellent order. Whereas the standard
roadster cockpit was relatively spartan, the Tickford was
positively luxurious, with ample leather, wool carpet, and polished
wood trim. As with the exterior, the cabin is beautifully restored
to a high standard. Light blue hides with dark blue rugs mirror the
exterior color scheme, and the upholstery is superbly finished. The
woodwork on the dash and door caps is polished to a beautiful
luster, and all the proper switches and dials are in place. The
padded and insulated three-position top adds another layer of
luxury, allowing for roll-up glass side windows and superb comfort
in virtually any condition. It is, of course, in exceptional
condition, finished in blue canvas with a gray broadcloth lining.
The Morris-derived 1,292 cc inline-four is a torquey and spirited
little unit, brimming with character. Particularly in this car, it
is also a pretty engine - finished in bright red with plenty of
polished aluminum alloy, copper, and brass fittings. The engine is
fed by twin SU carburetors breathing through a proper factory air
cleaner, and all the clamps, hardware, and plumbing are
period-correct. It benefits from a recent oil and coolant system
service and runs quite well. The engine compartment is impeccably
tidy, with notable details, including the restored tool kit,
properly stowed in the scuttle storage box. With its spirited
performance and miniature-Bentley looks, this rare and desirable MG
is undoubtedly one of the more charming sports cars of the era.
This example boasts a superb restoration and is sure to bring many
years of enjoyment to a discerning enthusiast. Offers welcome and
trades considered For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6830-1937-mg-ta-tickford-drophead-coupe/