Show Quality Restoration
1954 MG TF
Extensive "Frame-Off” Restored "TF” Finished in Elegant Black
Oxblood Red Interior / Tan Canvas Tonneau & Side Curtains
A Sympathetically Restored, 100% Turn-key, British Show Quality Classic
Owned by a Local British Car Enthusiast / Collector for 45~ Years!
__________________________
NOTE: Our listings are rather lengthy. They not only describe this particular car but also some history of the make/model, considerations in buying a classic car and facts about our firm. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read the full listing, please read the OVERVIEW below along with viewing the PHOTOGRAPHS at the bottom. If you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the MGTF and answer any questions over the telephone, including our "Buy it Now” policy. Yes, the MGTF can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction.
PHOTOGRAPHS
PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON eBay WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE CLOSE TO 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THIS MGTF, BUT WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL DOWN ON eBay TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THEM, PLEASE CALL US AT 925-846-1451 AND WE WILL PROVIDE A DIRECT LINK. NOTE: IT IS A VIOLATION OF eBay POLICY FOR US TO LIST THE URL ON THE eBay LISTING. PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS OF ANY PART OF THE MGTF. ALL OF OUR PHOTOS ARE TAKEN IN NATURAL LIGHT AND WE DO NOT "PHOTO-SHOP” OR TOUCH-UP THE PHOTOS IN ANY WAY.
INTRODUCTION
This car is offered at a realistic price and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information and history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for 25 years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with over 930 positive eBay feedback responses.
Please keep in mind that we will gladly...
1. Answer any questions over the telephone and take the time to guide prospective customers through the buying process (925-846-1451).
2. Assist with locating a quality, suitable transporter at very competitive prices.
3. Provide proof that we are licensed, bonded (for the financial transaction), fully insured, and operate from an established showroom environment.
4. Provide feedback from previous buyers, and specific references for vehicle purchases in your area (we also ask that you view our detailed eBay feedback by clicking on the number to the right of the eBay user name)
5. Offer additional information including specific photographs or clarification of any part of our description of the vehicle
Thank you again, please let me know if I can be of assistance.
Happy "eBaying"!
Paul R. Wankle, Pres.
Classic Cars Ltd.
Pleasanton, CA
925-846-1451
DETAILS - "THIS PARTICULAR 1953 MGTF
During our 25 years of specializing in European sports cars, we are proud to acknowledge that we have had more MG cars than we can count. This "TF” is undoubtedly one of, if not the best, driving, well maintained and correctly restored examples that we have had the pleasure of owning.
The MGTF comes to us, as virtually all of our vehicles do, from a local, long time owner who frequents Classic Cars Ltd. It is being offered for sale as a result after over 45 of ownership and seeing the MGTF through a no expense spared restoration that was completed just a few years ago and is "fresh” in every respect.
The car has a fascinating history that will appeal to those who appreciate the value of a well-documented, California "born & raised” British sports car. The car was acquired by its most recent owner in the early 1970's and in his possession ever since. The cars clean title supports that it has always been in California and reflects a "Date First Sold” of 1954. When he acquired the car 45 years ago, it was not running and while complete, was in need of body work and overall restoration. The owner, the long-time automotive expert and owner of an automotive parts and machine shop totally disassembled every part of the car including the engine, transmission, differential, and literally every component.
His goal was to complete a comprehensive restoration at that time the following work was begun:
- The frame was sand blasted, refinished in zinc oxide primer and finished with coats of black alkyd enamel
- The entire engine was rebuilt and bored .040” over with crankshaft journal welded and ground to standard specification.
- All internal components were checked and most replaced with eh NOS (New Old Stock) components that were still available in the 1970's.
- The engine was balanced statically and dynamically along with the flywheel and pressure plate.
- The cars original cylinder head was totally rebuilt with hardened valve seats, bronze valve guides, new valves and springs, new rocker shafts and rocker arm bushings.
- All new braking components were purchased along with new shock absorbers, suspension bushings, bearings and other bits replaced.
- The transmission received a complete rebuild at the owner's machine shop including new gears, bearings, gears and shafts.
In addition to beginning the work as outlined above, the owner purchased every New Old Stock (NOS) component that he needed to perform a "nut & bolt” restoration. It is important to note that the parts were acquired in the 1973-1974 time-frame when authentic quality British parts were still available. Virtually every part of the car has been replaced with NOS or replated and no currently available inexpensive, inferior aftermarket parts were used.
After the initial restoration effort began, the owner open his business / machine shop and the car was parked in his dry garage, partially finished for 30+ years until he retired. At that time, the restoration was resumed and all of the previous work was revisited to update the parts if needed and concentrate efforts to complete the restoration. The effort included:
- All body panels were glass bead blasted, primed, and taken to a local high quality body shop for custom painting (both sides of all panels) and assembly.
- All new rubber trim, felts,
- The entire wood frame was replace with new hickory wood sourced from Abington Spares, LTD. England
- Door hinges were rebuilt with bronze bushings, stainless steel pins and properly aligned
- The interior received professional custom reupholstered leather seats, door panels, carpet, and new side curtains, convertible top and full tonneau cover
- All bright-work was replaced with NOS parts, triple chrome plated
THE NUMBERS
The VIN number system used by Abingdon on the TF commenced with the introduction of TF. The VIN for the TF is completely different from the earlier Abingdon MG's. This new VIN number system tells us what kind of vehicle it's attached to, its original exterior color, the market it was originally sent to, the type of paint finish, and the car number as built. This information is found on the manufacturer's plate. The manufacturer's plate, which has both the VIN and engine numbers, is found on the engine distributor side of the body firewall for all cars, high up facing forward immediately adjacent to the toolbox latch. Photos of the manufacturer's plate can be seen in the photos.
The VIN # on this MGTF, HDA468270 decodes as follows:
HD / A / 4 / 6 / 8270
"HD” = Defines the car as an MG / open seat car
"A”= Black (One of six colors offered on the TF) Note: The first Black car was: HDA13/0501
"4” = LHD for North America
”6” = Cellulose paint on body with synthetic paint on fenders
"8270” = Body # (Based on Production Sequence)
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine Location: Front
Drive Type: Rear Wheel
Body / Chassis: Steel body on box-section steel frame
Production Years for Series: 1953 - 1955
Price New: $2,500
Weight: 1940 lbs.
Fuel Economy: 25MPG~
• Length 145 inches
• Width 58.3 inches
• Height 56 inches
• Wheelbase 94 inches
• Weight 1931 lb.
• Drag coefficient (est.) 0.65
• Top speed 81 mph (w/ stock differential
ENGINE TYPE:
I-4 1250 cc | 76.3 cu in. | 1.3 L.
58 BHP (42.32 KW) @ 5500 RPM
65 Ft-Lbs. (88 NM) @ 3000 RPM
Bore: 2.6 in | 67 mm.
Stroke: 3.5 in | 90 mm.
Transmission:
4 Speed Manual
Gear Ratios
1st Gear : 17.06:1
2nd Gear : 10.09:1
3rd Gear : 6.725:1
4th Gear : 4.875:1
Production / Roadsters : 6,200
EXTERIOR
• Frame Off / "Nut & Bolt” restoration of a solid, originally California MGTF
• Show quality paint in factory delivered paint color / highest quality 2-stage base coat/clear coat
• Extremely straight body lines & door fitment / closure
- NO sagging or ill-fitting doors or hood panels
• Very tight, rattle free "TF”
• All exterior chrome is exceptional and free from any pitting or damage
• Beautiful bumpers with factory correct over-riders
• New windscreen & rubber trim
• Excellent, virtually new beige canvas tonneau cover with functional center zipper to allow for "splitting” the driver's and passenger compartments or covering the entire car
• Like new, hardly up, high quality canvas tan top with perfectly clear window and restored top bows
• Front & rear side curtains included (4) also fitted to chromed (originally painted frames & finished in matching light vinyl fabric with clear windows (refer to photographs)
• Both doors open and close and secure properly with solid hinges and no sagging
• Original black / yellow license plates included in sale (To California buyers only as they need to be turned in for out of state sales)
• Currently registered and just renewed until 6/14/18 (CA buyers only)
• Beautifully restored front grill
• No radio or antenna (the way it should be for a vintage British sports car)
INTERIOR
• Beautiful custom Oxblood red leather seat upholstery
• Beautiful original totally restored steering wheel
• Beautiful original type vinyl covered dash & gauges
• All original gauges and all work except for small clock below tachometer
• Excellent tan door panels each w/ a storage pocket
• Glove box opening in dash
• All new black floor carpet w/ rubber mat on driver's side
• Space for luggage behind the front seats with separate felt lined compartment for side screens / windows (included per above description)
• Factory correct center mounted rear view mirror
• Wipers work
• Functional hand brake
• Working (loud) horn)
• Lights & electrical system is fully functional
COSMETIC CONDITION
This example is absolutely striking in black, with an oxblood red in interior and tan canvas top and side curtains. The restoration effort was done to a very high standard with considerable attention to detail that resulted in an absolutely beautiful MG.
The convertible top and color coordinated full canvas tonneau cover and top are in virtually new condition and the interior is exceptional. The engine bay is highly detailed and remains in stock configuration. The bright-work is very good, particularly both bumpers.
The underside is California clean and supports that the car has not seen rain since restoration (refer to photos). The inner fender wells were painted during the restoration and the completely replaced chassis wood is still clean and fresh as shown in the detailed underside photos.
DRIVEBILITY
Frankly, this "TF” car runs and drives better than any early MG that we have owned. We attribute this to a totally rebuilt engine, transmission, rear end, and other drive-line components. It starts immediately when cold and equally as well once it is fully warmed up. The engine does not hesitate, has excellent power, and it runs smoothly as it is shifted up and down through the syncromesh gears of the totally rebuilt transmission.
There is no unusual noise in the drive-line including the rear end, engine, brakes, and other components.
The MGTF does not pull to the left or right, brakes straight and sure with a functional e-brake. It does not not exhibit any drivability issues. MG enthusiasts will notice that the instrumentation is MG is period correct. Due to a new wiring harness and a very particular owner, all of the lights and electrical system are fully functional. The speedometer recently needle recently "stuck” around 30 mph but moves upward. We are investigating the cause of the glitch.
The MG runs at normal operating temperature with no indication of overheating. The other gauges are fully functional (speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, ammeter) as are the lights and horn. Engine oil pressure reads 60~ lbs., well within the normal operating specifications and the MG runs cool even in warm Northern California temperatures partly as a result of the restored cooling system. The car is totally sorted, usable at highway speeds and, personally, we would not hesitate to take it on a long (and enjoyable) journey.
The MG is perhaps the most mechanically solid example that we can remember owning. It will certainly be well received at any car show, cruise, or British car event.
OTHER
- Clear California title with current California registration (Until June 2018 for California buyers)
- California smog test not required for vehicles 1975 and older
- Passed the California required safety inspection for working wipers, lights, brakes, etc. with NO findings
- Includes original hand crank to start!
- Includes restored jack, official Moss gas level ”checker” (Yard stick), & hood prop
- Extra material for tonneau, top, leather and miscellaneous trim
HISTORY OF THE 1950-1953 MGTF
Something had to be done about the flagging sales of the TD, but all that could be done at the time was to give it a face-lift. Hence, the MG TF Midget was introduced in 1953.
The bodywork displayed the most changes, although it still had that un-mistakable and by now old- fashioned MG style. The most obvious changes were to the front end where the radiator grille had been lowered and raked to give a lower hood line. The front wings were shaped so that the headlights could be flaired into them rather than being separately mounted. At the rear there was little difference compared to the TD, although a valance was provided to fill the gap between the bottom of the fuel tank and the bumper.
In terms of performance, while there was no change from the MG TD, the body was more aerodynamic and considerably more attractive. Today, the last of this era MG is sought after by collector and viewed as one of the more attractive MG's of the 1950's.
PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER
As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background for any collector car being sold over the Internet. It is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to:
- How long have they been in business?
- How much experience do they have with collector cars?
- How many positive collector car vehicle sales have they completed (positive eBay feedback)?
- How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle?
- Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "glamour shots" taken from a distance?
- Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction?
- What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license?
- Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances?
- Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation?
- Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales?
ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD.
- Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 25 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles.
- The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair.
- We have sold hundreds of unique, classic and collectible vehicles and regularly deal with buyers that have not had the experience of purchasing a large (both physically and monetarily) item on eBay, or through an Internet source. Our eBay feedback is 100% positive on all vehicle sales from customers around the globe and is a reflection of our commitment to accurate, complete, and thorough vehicle descriptions.
- We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) for the cost of open shipping.
- Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 930 positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World.
- We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World.
- Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions
- We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area.
MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION
- As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet.
- In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, a documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license/registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law.
- While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail we will not respond to inquiries asking "What is the reserve". Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you.
- We encourage inspections of this MGTF by serious, qualified individuals or professional inspectors. Please call at 925-846-1451 to arrange a convenient time.
- As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd.
- Minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used "pre-owned" vehicle. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!!
- The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and other significant data (including cosmetic and mechanical condition) prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering.
Thank you,
Classic Cars Ltd.
925-846-1451
Specifications:
| | Body Type / Style: | Convertible | | Exterior Color: | Ebony | | Interior Color: | Oxblood Red Leather | | Engine: | 4 Cylinder Inline | | Transmission: | 4 Speed Manual | | Mileage: | Brand New! | | Drive: | Rear | | Doors: | 2 |
Equipment:
| Balanced Roating Assemblies
Body Off Restoration
California Car!
California Lic & Reg
Car Cover Included
Exceptional Paint Quality
Exempt from CA Smog
Factory 4-Speed
Factory Bucket Seats
Full Instrumentation
Functional Horn
Instrument Panel Dash Pad
Leather Seats
No Rust CA. Body
Original Jack & Tools
Original Owners Manual
| | | Original Owners Manual
Professionally Restored
Rebuilt Differential
Rebuilt Engine
Rebuilt Transmission
Repair History
Repair Receipts
Runs / Drives Very Well
SEE DESCRIPTION.....
Seat Belts (Front)
Spare Tire & Jack
Steel Fenders
Steel Running Boards
Tachometer
Tonneau Cover
Tremendous Attention to Detail
|
Wrinkled from Storage but Like New
Terms & Conditions
- Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd.
- The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451.
- Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction.
- Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California.
- To avoid shipping the title with the car to our out of state buyers, we mail the title via Priority Mail.
- While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location.
- We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid.
Thank You & Happy Bidding
Classic Cars Ltd. |
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