1953 MG TD Midget

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1953 MG TD Midget represents the final production year of one of MG’s most beloved post-war sports cars. Introduced in 1950, the TD combined the classic British roadster charm of its predecessor, the TC, with significant mechanical and comfort upgrades aimed at appealing to the growing American market. 

Built by Morris Garages in Abingdon, England, the TD featured a rigid box-section chassis, independent front suspension using coil springs and wishbones, and rack-and-pinion steering — a notable advancement for its time. It retained the 1250cc (1.25-liter) XPAG inline-four engine, producing around 54 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual gearbox. Though not fast by modern standards, its light weight and nimble handling made it a joy to drive. 

“The TD is a car that invites enthusiastic driving,” Road & Track magazine wrote in its February 1953 issue. “Its handling is precise, and the ride is surprisingly supple for a sports car of its class.” 

The TD also marked a shift toward more practical motoring. It came with bumpers, steel wheels, and left-hand drive options, catering to American tastes. In fact, over 80 percent of MG TDs were exported to the U.S. By the end of its production in 1953, over 29,000 of the roadsters had been built. 

Highlights 

• Final production year for the iconic MG TD 

• Finished in Clipper Blue paint with Midnight Blue fenders 

• Powered by a 1250cc OHV inline-four engine with twin SU H2 carburetors rated at 54 hp 

• Four-speed manual transmission with wooden MG shift knob 

• Upgraded to tan MGA seats 

• Upgraded to electronic ignition  

• Additional upgrades in late 2024: 

  • New radiator 

  • New generator 

  • New voltage regulator 

  • New tachometer gear drive and cable 

Features 

• The chassis number (XPAGTD220746) decodes as: 

  • XPAG – 1250cc inline-four engine 

  • TD – Model 

  • 220746 – Sequential production number 

• Fold-down luggage rack in rear 

• 100-mph speedometer and 6,000-rpm tachometer (5,000 rpm redline) 

• 115-inch steel wheels with dog dish hubs 

• Kelly Netric Radial 165R15 tires 

Known Imperfections 

• Minor scratches on the hood 

• Paint chips on bottom of driver's side rear fender 

• Scuffs on driver’s side rear wheel 

• Fuel stains/light surface rust around filler cap and tank 

• Scuffs on shift knob  

Included 

• Rear-mounted spare tire 

• New tan tonneau cover 

• Convertible boot cover 

• Original seats 

• New alternator if the next owner wants to convert from generator 

• MG Workshop Manual and Operation Manual 

• MG wooden dipstick to measure fuel 

• Dash plates for New England T Register and Original British Car Day 

Ownership History 

The Maryland seller of this 1953 MG TD has owned it since October 2020. The seller says, “It’s not a concours car, but it’s a second- and third-place car at local shows.”