1954 MG TF 1250

Description

The MG TF 1250, produced for 1953 and ’54, represents the final evolution of MG’s iconic T‑series sports cars, following the TA, TC, and TD models. Designed with broader doors, integrated headlamps, and a more raked radiator, the TF modernized the classic British roadster aesthetic while retaining its traditional steel body-on-steel-frame construction and coil-sprung independent front suspension.

Under the bonnet sat a 1,250cc XPAG inline‑four engine, delivering around 58 horsepower. Power was routed rearward through a four-speed manual gearbox, complemented by rack-and-pinion steering and drum brakes.

This 1954 MG TF 1250 was the subject of an extensive refurbishment that reportedly began in 1999 and was completed only recently. The previous owner is said to have rebuilt the engine, reconditioned the gearbox, rebuilt the shocks, replaced the front suspension and steering bushings, replaced the body’s wood and steel inner/outer panels, painted the car Birch Gray, and gave it a new convertible top, matching side curtains, and a tonneau cover.

After purchasing the MG in 2021, the seller changed the interior from black to red, restoring the original factory color combination. Other recent additions included a new clutch, new tires, replacement bumpers, fender-mounted mirrors, and a new starter motor.

This refreshed MG TF 1250 is now offered with side curtains, two tonneau covers, some miscellaneous documentation, and a clean Florida title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• Previous refurbishment including engine rebuild and reconditioned gearbox

• Refinished in factory-correct Birch Grey paint

• Reupholstered red vinyl bucket seats, door panels, and dashboard padding

• Recent new clutch and tires

Factory Equipment

• 1,250cc XPAG inline-four engine with twin SU carburetors

• Four-speed manual transmission

• Steel wheels with MG hubcaps

• Three-spoke “banjo” style steering wheel

• 100-mph speedometer, 6,000-rpm tachometer, and water/oil/amps gauge

• The chassis number (HDB465550) decodes as:

  • HD – MG two-seat roadster

  • B – B - Birch Grey paint

  • 4 – Left-hand drive export for North America

  • 6 – Cellulose body with synthetic wings (fenders)

  • 5550 – Sequential production number

Modifications

• Refurbishment between 1999-2021 included:

  • Engine rebuild that included .060” overbore, regrinding of the crankshaft and the camshaft, new pistons and bearings, lightened flywheel, and replacement seals

  • Reconditioned manual gearbox

  • Custom rewiring

  • New brake master cylinder bushings, wheel cylinders, and copper alloy lines

  • Rebuilt front shocks

  • New rubber bushings for front suspension and steering

  • New wood and replacement steel inner/outer quarter panels on body

  • Refinished in Birch Grey paint

  • New top, matching side curtains, and tonneau cover

• Continued restoration by seller (2021-present) included:

  • Reupholstered interior from black to red, restoring the original factory color combination

  • Replacement bumpers and fender-mounted mirrors

Servicing

• 2025: Oil and filter change

• Recently replaced clutch and starter motor

• Douglas Touring 185/65R15 tires

Known Imperfections

• Engine leaks some oil

• Windshield wipers are inoperable

• Ding in driver’s side front fender

• Some paint imperfections on body and wheels

• Some pitting on chrome bumpers, grille, and trim

• Steering wheel center cap is worn

Ownership History

The seller of this 1954 MG TF 1250 purchased it in November 2021.

Included Items

• Rear-mounted spare tire

• Side curtains

• Two tonneau covers

• Some miscellaneous documentation