Long-term ownership can often determine whether an enthusiast pursues a classic car to park in their garage. This 1953 MG TD ticks that box, with its current owner having been its custodian for over four decades. It has spent the past five years in this barn, but this gem runs and drives. Its condition is surprisingly good, allowing the winning bidder to return it to active duty quickly. Interest has been high since it appeared here on HiBid in Richmond, Indiana. The action has pushed the price to $4,200, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mark S for spotting this gem.

It is unclear why it occurred, but the owner parked this MG five years ago, and it only recently emerged from hiding. They don’t indicate whether it is a genuine survivor, although I believe it probably underwent a restoration at some point. Its Woodland Green paint is a mixture of exceptional shine and minor imperfections. I think it would be acceptable once cleaned and polished, and the lack of visible rust in prone areas like the running boards and rear doglegs suggests the new owner could enjoy this classic without spending a dime on its panels or paint. The vehicle features a Beige soft-top free from rips. It fits tightly and has a clear back window. The matching side curtains tell a similar story, and the glass is in good order. The trim shines well. There are no signs of pitting or other issues, and the only thing I might do before hitting the road would be to strip and repaint the wheels. They show surface corrosion and detract from what seems to be a very presentable classic.

Powering this MG is the company’s 1,250cc “XPAG” four that sends 54hp and 64 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a four-speed manual transmission. That doesn’t sound like a recipe for excitement, but a curb weight of 2,015 lbs makes these cars surprisingly energetic and engaging to drive. They won’t threaten muscle cars, but the thought of slipping behind the wheel for some relaxed touring on country roads with the sun beaming down on the occupants is a tempting vision. The engine looks remarkably clean, and I can see what appears to be some relatively new gaskets and sparkling carburetors. That suggests it may have received some mechanical TLC before being parked five years ago. The seller indicates the car runs and drives, and five years isn’t a long period for a vehicle of this type to hibernate. If it isn’t roadworthy, getting it to that point might not consume much time or money.

Okay, I’ve just heard some of our readers yell, “The steering wheel is on the wrong side!” That’s a fair call, and it is unclear how or why this right-hand-drive version made its way to North America. Some people consider driving a right-hook classic intimidating, but they shouldn’t. Adapting takes little time or effort, and the practice can quickly become second nature. I’ve swapped between both configurations regularly, and it isn’t a challenge. This interior is in excellent condition for its age. The only items the winning bidder might address are the slightly cloudy gauge lenses and the dash fascia that requires restoration or replacement if the new owner craves perfection. Otherwise, the upholstered surfaces look perfect, and the carpet should present well after a once-over with a vacuum cleaner. If the winning bidder left things as-is, the car would still command respect as a survivor.

British sports cars from the 1950s and 1960s continue attracting attention in the classic market. This 1953 MG TD demonstrates that courtesy of the fifty-three bids submitted at the time of writing. The price is still modest, making it attractive for enthusiasts seeking an affordable car to park in their garage. You must act quickly if this car is the stuff of your dreams because the auction ends soon. After all, he who hesitates is lost.