Highlights

Impressively presented red roadster with black soft-top
Older American restoration/conversion, completed to an exceptional standard
Volvo B 1800 engine with twin carbs and overdrive gearbox
Recently fitted with new wire wheels and front disc brakes

The Appeal

Introduced in 1953, and intended as a stop-gap before the introduction of the MGA, the TF Midget was anachronistic when it was released - with styling that defied the more modern curves and fins of the modern roadster. It was a great asset though - the car managed to pick up plenty of interest in the USA, where capturing a British milieu seemed particularly popular.

Registered in the USA in 1955, this example underwent a thorough rebuild and restoration while stateside - including an upgrade and conversion to a Volvo B 1800 with twin carbs and an overdrive transmission, which is a particularly popular swap in the USA. While that may upset purists, it’s certainly led to a faster, more durable motor.

The entire restoration has been one of exceptional detail, something that still shows beautifully in the car - after all, only 3,152 miles have been covered since 2006, and it's clearly been kept dry, cosseted and clean throughout.

The History and Paperwork

Built at Abingdon works in 1954
Registered for the first time in the UK in September 1954
Following this it was taken to America
First registered in the USA in 1955
At some stage in its life across the pond, the car underwent a conversion
Here it was given a Volvo B-series engine with matching overdrive transmission
This is likely to be an older conversion, though we sadly have no invoices in relation to it
The car was registered in New Jersey by 1995
In 2005, it was shipped from New York to Liverpool
During its time in the UK, it’s had two registered owners
Recently subject to some mechanical work and upgrades
Currently indicates 3,152 miles - this is on a five-figure odometer
The vendor informs us that the speedometer was overhauled in 2006, resetting the mileage
As a result we can confirm the car has driven only 3,152 miles in the past 17 years
MOT exempt and last tested in 2012
Paperwork file includes:
- V5c document
- Certificate of Title from New Jersey, 1997
- 3 New Jersey Insurance Identification cards from 1997 and 1998
- Original shipping paperwork from AAI International in 2005
- Invoices for components from the MG Octagon Club in 2006
- Invoices for new wheels, springs, bushes and more from 2007
- Workshop manual by Ford Clymer at Veloce Press

The Interior

Impressive period interior
Tan leather upholstery with very light patina
Seats look very distinguished, with no rips or tears
Door cards and dashboard present well with no faults we can spot to the vinyl coverings
Period instruments are in good condition
Chromework is in good order with light patina
Carpets are in good condition with light wear
Beige, branded steering wheel is in very good condition with an attractive wire-spoke design
Ultimately, this is a very pleasant, nicely-kept example that’s bound to impress!

The Exterior

Attractive red paintwork across the board - a detailed, older restoration that's been done to a high standard
Chromework carries some patina, though it’s light considering the car’s age
The bodywork appears free of any significant dents or dings
Carrying a nicely presented black soft top which is free of any rips or tears
The rear-mounted roof rack is relatively new, being fitted in 2007
In 2007, the car's wire wheels were upgraded to chrome wheels, and are still in excellent condition
Shod in a full set of Superguard tyres, which have plenty of tread
Underneath, the car is carrying a stainless steel exhaust - fitted in 2022
The car’s underside is in rare order, no clear signs of wear or corrosion

The Mechanics

Upgraded at some point in its life with a new engine and transmission
The car is carrying a Volvo B-Series 1800cc I4 engine
Volvo transmission with overdrive
The engine has been beautifully presented - many would think it’s always been there!
Recently subject to a front disc brake conversion, providing extra stopping power for the higher performance engine and drive line
The car is reportedly in excellent working order with no faults to report
This is certainly in line with the engine’s cosmetic appearance
The vendor informs us that the car has no oil leaks, starts instantly from cold and runs and drives very well

Summary

Thoughtfully upgraded, this MG is running better than it did when leaving Abingdon, and is sure to turn plenty of heads on the road. With period aesthetics and a stylish finish, the car is a shining gem for any collector’s garage, while still maintaining plenty of period styling and a lovely spot of interior patina.

It's a truly remarkable American restoration that places it firmly as one of the best in its class that we've come across. With that practically bulletproof engine and an impressive history file, you can trust this car will make quite a spirited companion for top-down cruising.

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