We’ve seen a recent influx of classic British sports cars at Barn Finds, with some showing greater promise than others. This 1954 MG TF is one of the better examples of a project candidate. It has been dry-stored since 2020 and requires minor work to return to active service. However, a long list of pre-hibernation work and the seller’s decision to include the parts required for the new owner to perform the revival could make this MG one of the great bargains of 2024. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this promising project.
The T-Type range was a staple for MG from the introduction of the TA Midget in 1936 until the MGA replaced the MG TF 1500 in 1955. Our feature car is a 1954 TF that has hibernated since 2020. The photos and listing text suggest it should represent a relatively straightforward restoration project, as there is no evidence or mention of rust. The Burgundy paint gracing its panels isn’t original, with the images suggesting that the first owner ordered it in MG Red. It is unclear when the change occurred, but reversal won’t add significantly to the project costs. The panels are straight, while the trim, glass, and wire wheels are in good order. The sale doesn’t include side curtains or a soft-top, although the roof bows are present.
I have always liked British sports cars, not because they are fast, but because they are enormously entertaining to drive. These cars typically feature modest engine power, but the low center of gravity contributes to exceptional road-holding for a car on relatively narrow tires. This TF may have hibernated for around four years, but there is plenty of positive news for those considering giving it a new home. The 1,250cc “XPAG” four received a rebuild in 2014, so it should produce at least the 58hp and 65 ft/lbs of torque that was available when the car rolled off the line. The owner replaced the clutch at that point, adding a new wiring harness to eliminate any potential electrical gremlins. The work is an important consideration when we reach the subject of the car’s sale price because the seller holds receipts for $12,000 verifying the mechanical work. They recently coaxed the engine back to life, and it runs like a Swiss watch. The brakes are dry and inoperative, but the seller includes the master cylinder and wheel cylinders required to return the system to good health. Therefore, installing those components and performing a routine service might be all that stands between this classic and the open road.
This MG’s interior is tidy for those considering returning the car to active service as a short-term goal. The seats look good, but the carpet fit isn’t quite right. The limited images make it hard to thoroughly assess the condition of the remaining trim, although the seller admits it needs a dash cowl pad. The dash metal wears the original exterior paint shade and would benefit from a refresh if the buyer elects to return this classic to its former glory. The wheel looks nice, and the gauges are excellent for their age.
The seller listed this 1954 MG TF here on Craigslist in Merrimack, New Hampshire. Their price of $11,750 looks pretty respectable in isolation but stacks up exceptionally well when you factor in the supplied new parts and the $12,000 spent on the car’s mechanical components in 2014. The buyer could treat it to the straightforward cosmetic restoration it deserves, although fitting the new brake parts and hitting the road with the car in its current form seems feasible. However, if you have been searching for a winter project, this little MG deserves a close look.
Dude, what’s the piece of wood for? When it happens, you’ll know,,,should be a “bonnet stay rod”, the Brits aren’t that crude. The TF was probably the nicest of the T series, and the last. The all new MGA came out in ’55 and suddenly the T series was horribly out of date. They were very important, none the less. Returning GIs found out how inept our sports car system was here, and many courted our moms in these, later opting for that ’55 Chevy wagon. I “courted” my ex-wife in my MGB. Whether that sealed the deal or not, I’ll never know. Fun cars, although like most, a bit out of place on I-70, but for putt-putting down Memory Lane, none better.
Nice car but that color sure doesn’t fit the car. Courted my wife in a ’55 Healey. Must be some sort of thing with wives and old British sports cars.
Agreed. I seem to recall MGs of that vintage offering a similar color, but I suppose it could also be a faded/oxidized red…. Either way, the TF deserves a respray. I’m partial to BRG.
For that money, I’d prefer a TF 1500. But it’s still tempting!
We can thank Madison Ave. for that. Remember the Farrah Fawcett Ultra Bright commercial? “Sit up straight, eat all your vegetables and stay out of small foreign cars” The car “Joey” had was an MGB.
Rough paint, vinyl interior and 1250 engine. He will never get that kind of money for it. Maybe if he makes a driver out of it.
The door frames on these T versions were wood framed and sheet metal wrapped. They get loose. Closing the door generally requires operating the release latch to “OPEN”, then supporting the striker with one hand, and engaging opened door handle with the other hand until door is completely closed and striker / latch fully engaged, then releasing the door handle to acheive closure. Important to assure latching on these suicide doors.
Actually written up in a Morgan’s owners manuel is the following statement- (paraphrased) “To eliminate body and chassis squeeks it is good practice to back the vehicle into a stream up to the floor boards. Swelling of wood will eleviate squeeks.” HA! Horse and buggy technology.