Lot 301: MG Midget TF 1250 Roadster

Launched in 1936 as successor to the PB Midget, the first of the T-Series Midgets - the TA - was an altogether larger and roomier car. Although styled in a manner MG enthusiasts had come to expect, the new two-seater broke with tradition by employing an overhead-valve engine instead of the previous overhead-cam type. The T-type Midgets would prove to be an outstanding success for MG, being produced in five basic series between 1936 and 1955. The Midget evolved gradually over this period, growing larger and becoming more refined, yet remained every inch the traditional British sports car. The most important developments included the introduction of the more powerful 1,250cc XPAG engine (on the TB), independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering (on the TD) and the 1,466cc XPEG engine on the TF1500 in 1954. This TF Midget formed part of a two-car collection in Dulwich, South London and is offered for sale following the death of the vendor's husband, whose family had owned it since the 1970s. Although badged as a '1500', the car was manufactured in July 1954 as a '1250', as indicated by the chassis and engine numbers recorded in the registration document. However, the engine currently fitted ('C32736') is a replacement unit, the capacity of which has yet to be determined. 'RKA 553' is finished in British Racing Green with black interior and similar hood, and is equipped with side screens, luggage rack and spotlights. Serviced in May 2009, the car is presented in generally good, running condition and offered with MoT to May 2010 and Swansea V5.