Vehicle Description
Over 30,000 MG TDs were built, but in late 1952 an optional
'Competition Model' was available that featured a host of
performance-enhancing modifications and a small number were
imported to the US. The mods included a higher-compression head
with larger valves and a hotter cam, twin 1 1/2" carburetors, dual
fuel pumps and Andrex friction dampers on all four corners (in
addition to the normal shocks) and some of those cars received an
additional set of louvers on top of the hood-like this one has.
Of course, these hop-up bits didn't make a TD a rocket ship, but
it's a nice bonus to find a special model that stands apart from
its many sister cars. This one has been in single-family ownership
for the last 36 years (!) and spent most of that time sitting in a
garage waiting for the occasional drive. It is further unusual in
that it hasn't had any of the common British-car rust problems, so
the frame, body (and inner wood) are quite solid. Also rare is the
fact it retains its original engine, which is doubly important
being a TD/C model.
Over the years it's been repainted, reupholstered and maintained by
a local British-car specialty shop. We have just had that shop
rebuild the carburetors and flush the fuel system, so it starts
right up and runs well. The top is in nice shape and we have the
full set of side curtains. The floors are solid and it has a
tonneau cover and luggage rack. However, while it IS a running,
driving car with lights and brakes, it should be considered an easy
project car for an enthusiast to enjoy tinkering with. You will
note it has nice chrome plus recent tires & battery; in fact it
even has actual mileage! 71,126 was printed on the 1989 title and
it shows 71,487 today.
With this car you know the expensive stuff to restore is in good
shape and it's a rare model to boot, at a very budget-friendly
price point.
If you are considering one of the classic or collectible cars on
our website, be assured that coming for a personal visit to inspect
first-hand the car that has captured your fancy is very welcome. We
practice transparency in all of our descriptions, but believe that
nothing is as convincing as seeing and touching the car yourself.
Plan a few hours, so you can see, touch, feel and drive the car,
and enjoy a tour of our restoration shops to see 'where the magic
happens.' If your schedule is too committed, we also welcome a
knowledgeable agent visiting for you. Please understand that sales
are final, so the time for all due diligence is before you buy. Our
cars are sold AS-IS, since most are on consignment from owners. We
follow FTC guidelines for all sales and certainly want our future
clients leaving more glowing reports among our reviews!
