1954 MG TF

This pre-war design was something special to come from the British archives – it revived the archetypal pre-war sports car look, with a long bonnet, rear wheel drive, and swooping running boards.

Paint

Michael has finished the MG in the original MF Red, and the paintwork presents well. Some areas would benefit from a flat and polish, but overall, the finish is very good.

The images are taken from a range of angles to show the car as you would see it in person, so please take the time to fully assess the high-resolution photos and videos before forming your own opinion of the paintwork

Bodywork

The MG TF's bodywork is in great shape. There are no dings or dents, and the doors and bonnet align well and open and close precisely. If you’ve been in a TF before, you will know this is quite a task to perfect, but Michael has got it down to a fine art.

The removable roof has been replaced, and it fits nice and tightly, along with the side screens - which are also in excellent condition.

We’ve highlighted our observations in more detail through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take the time to review all media files to assess the car’s condition for yourself.

Dashboard

The main fascia of the dashboard has been painted red and gold, with a leather section across the top; both are in excellent condition.

The instruments are original and show ~58,969 miles, but please note that a full engine rebuild has been carried out.

The instruments do work as they should, although the speedometer and tachometer needles do have a slight bounce to them, as is often the case on cars of this era

The drive

There's no doubt: the MG TF offers pure, mechanical British motoring nostalgia. Sitting low behind the large wheel, with the eager engine humming through a crisp gearshift, every winding road becomes an engaging, open-air experience.

This car is not about achieving modern speeds; rather it's entirely about enjoying timeless, mid-century character.

Glass and trim

The windscreen is in good condition, with just a few minor age-related marks. As mentioned, the side screens are new, and the plastic windows in those are free from scratches. The chrome work has a bright finish, with no real signs of tarnishing.

The headlights, fog lights, and rear lights are all in excellent condition, with no damage to the lenses.

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

Wheels and tyres

The wire wheels are in good condition, with no apparent signs of corrosion. The knock-offs are in good order, with a bright finish to the chrome. The tyres are matching and in like-new condition, having not covered many miles since being fitted.

Please take the time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels and tyres, so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn or over 10 years old.

Seats and carpets

Michael has re-covered the red leather seats: they are fit for many miles of motoring, and are presented in excellent condition. The matching red door cards are also in the same condition, with no damage.

The carpets throughout are in excellent condition - having been replaced - and show very little use since completion.

Engine and gearbox

When Michael rebuilt the engine, he used oversized pistons to make the engine 1,305cc, giving it a welcome improvement on the road.

The engine fires up with ease and quickly comes to a smooth idle, with no unwanted rattles or noises, which in turn is reflected in how superbly it runs and performs on the road. Michael told us it does have small oil leak from the rear scroll seal but this is common in old cars, and he has had no issue with overheating even on hot summer days.

The four-speed gearbox has precise changes, and the gears are very easily selected, with no issues.

Electrics and other

The MG's electrics are minimal, as you would expect from a vehicle of this age. Michael told us the only small wiring job is the main head light beam warning to be fitted.

The light and wiper switches work correctly, and their condition is good, with only minor wear consistent with the vehicle's age.

History and paperwork

There is a nice collection of receipts for many parts purchased during the restoration, though some parts were purchased from club members, so receipts weren't given. Michael also has photos on his phone that he took at various stages of the restoration.

This is a fantastic opportunity for any fan of the classic pre-war MG T-Series design to step up and sit behind the wheel of a fully restored, more usable British classic.

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including photo ID and V5 verification, as well as a history check on the vehicle. This is a professional HPI check that will highlight if the car has previously been stolen, recorded as being involved in an accident or has any outstanding finance. Please note that this does not include a mileage history check.

We’ve summarised our own view of the car based on information provided by the seller; however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video each car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own assessment from the comfort of your home. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time reviewing everything in this listing.

Viewings are also welcomed on all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a suitable time; we just need to speak to you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section before placing your bids, as bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car, just like at a traditional auction house.

Suspension and brakes

Driving the MG is great fun. It handles well, feels nice and tight, and there are no knocks or bangs coming from the suspension. The brakes work well and bring the car to a stop in a straight line, with no issues.

Steering wheel gear stick

The MG steering wheel is in excellent condition, is finished in gold, and shows no signs of heavy use or age.

The wooden MG gear knob is also in good shape, again with no real signs of age.