63 bhp, 1,466 cc inline four-cylinder engine with two SU carburetors, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension, rear suspension with a solid axle and semi-elliptical leaf springs, and four hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 94 in.
The TF was introduced as the replacement to the TD in 1953, and it shared many similarities with its predecessor. The mid-section of the body was retained, but at the front end, it bore a shorter and slightly more sloping radiator grille and the headlamps were integrated into the wings rather than mounted on their own. The interior remained largely similar as well, albeit for independently adjustable seats.
At first, MG continued to use the 1,250-cubic centimeter engine found in the TD, but as time went on, it became apparent that the TF could use an increase in power. November of 1954 brought about the larger displacement TF-1500, which would eventually account for more than half of TF production. This engine did an incredible job of increasing performance. Top speed was increased to nearly 145 km/h, and the TF-1500’s 0–100 km/h time was also reduced to 16 seconds, which was some two seconds faster than the outgoing TF-1250.
By the time production ceased in March 1955, just 9,600 TF roadsters had been built, with about 3,400 of those being TF-1500s.
The example presented here is perhaps the most classic example of a MG TF, as it is finished in the traditional British color scheme of green over a tan leather interior, with a beige convertible soft-top and tonneau cover. The MG’s green finish presents quite nicely, and the exterior chrome shines bright, while the top exhibits no flaws whatsoever. Step inside, and it’s clear that the interior has been maintained just as well as the exterior, as both seats show only slight wear from normal road use. Nothing but the octagon-shaped gauges (to echo the MG badge) are present to distract the driver from the task at hand.
With the introduction of the MGA as the replacement to the TF-1500, the long line of traditionally styled MG sports cars, which began with the TA in 1936 and straddled both pre-war and post-war production, came to an end. This particular MG TF-1500, perhaps the most desirable of the series thanks to its larger engine, shows very well, and it would certainly make for an exciting driver.