Highlights
- Matching numbers example in original Chariot Red with Red Leather
- One of the last TF 1500s built before production ended
- Repatriated from the USA in 1990 with just 5,735 miles covered since
- Part of a private Scottish museum collection since 2016
- Large history file including Heritage Certificate and original 1955 Final Inspection sheet
The Appeal
The TF 1500 Midget was the final version of MG’s illustrious and long-lived T-Type series and of a certain style of Abingdon sportster. More usable than earlier versions, they make a wise choice for enthusiasts who want to get out and enjoy their vintage-themed classic.
This 1955 Chariot Red car is one of the last built. A heritage certificate confirms that it was originally dispatched to the USA and also verifies this car as a matching numbers vehicle, including the colour scheme. It returned from America in 1990 and is reported to have covered less than 6,000 miles in the intervening 35 years.
The previous keeper acquired the car in 2002, subsequently investing in maintenance and new wet-weather gear. We’re told that it has been little used and is in very good order. In 2016, it joined the current keeper’s large private collection and museum and has been carefully dry stored.
The condition is impressive. There is a degree of light age to note, but this is largely in the ‘patina’ rather than ‘urgent work’ category. There is scope to improve, or it is presentable enough to use ‘as is.’
History and Paperwork
- Factory built between 10-14 March 1955
- Dispatched to the USA on 15th March 1955,
- Details above confirmed by Heritage Certificate
- Repatriated to the UK in 1990 and registered here on 22/10/90
- Seven registered UK keepers recorded
- Inspected by Suncoast Appraisals, Florida in 1990 at 73,645 miles
- Vendor reports that this assessment rated the car in top 1% of classic cars they had seen
- Inspected by Gott & Wynne Insurance brokers for Octagon Car Club in 1992 at 74,387 miles
- This assessment rated the car as first class throughout and valued at £22,500
- The previous owner purchased the car in 2002 with an indicated mileage of 78,793 miles
- Current vendor purchased car at NEC Classic Motor Show auction in November 2016 for £22,500
- Large history file of invoices and receipts
- Original Final Inspection sheet from 1955
- USA Florida State documents
- Vendor advises strong MOT history with no fails or advisories
- Reported to have covered only 5,735 miles since repatriation to the UK in 1990
- Current mileage stands at 80,590
- Stored in heated garage since 2016 by current keeper
- Currently part of a large private collection and museum
- Primarily displayed in a private Aberdeen museum or taken to shows, we are told
- V5C
- VIN number HDC469864
The Condition
- Factory-correct Chariot Red colour scheme in presentable condition
- Paintwork shows some patina to the paint, such as small microblisters
- Bodywork and chromework in good order as shown in photos
- Car sits on painted wire wheels with a matching spare wheel
- Vendor reports that car has its original red leather interior
- Black carpets in good general condition
- Cabin appears in good condition with some light age to note as shown
- Fitted with original Lucas headlights
- Features the original marble-style steering wheel
- Original rare mirrors present
- Well-kept beige wet weather kit refurbished in Alpaca in 2002
- All matching Michelin tyres in good condition across all five wheels we are told
- Underside appears rust-free, we are told
- Original plaques and VIN plates under the bonnet intact
- ‘Marble’ factory steering wheel present
The Mechanics
- 1,460cc XPEG 4cyl engine
- Twin SU carburettors
- 4spd manual transmission
- Original engine with matching numbers, we are told
- Maintained by MG specialists as evidenced by previous MOT documentation
- Currently dry stored as part of a large private collection
- The vendor states the car has been well-maintained throughout its life
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