1953 MG TD Midget

MG’s TC roadster sold well initially, but the car’s 1930s specifications meant it was ripe for a redesign by 1950. In response, Syd Enever and Alec Hounslow took two weeks in 1949 to strip a four-seat Y-Type Tourer and shorten the chassis five inches. The Y-type had been a commercial disappointment, with only 877 sold in three years, and this was a brilliant solution. Just like that, the MG TD roadster was born.

The TD also carried a few modifications aimed at the US market. Specifically, left-hand drive was offered, along with rack-and-pinion steering, smaller, 15-inch steel disc wheels (no wire wheels were offered), and larger bumpers. In turn, the car was wider and 200 pounds heavier than the TC. In keeping with its predecessor, the TD’s weather protection was minimal.

The MG TD still used the 54bhp, 1,250cc XPAG inline-four motor to reach a top speed in the mid-70 mph range, which meant the second of MG’s T-Series cars was a tad slower than the first. Even so, the TD’s modifications conspired with a newly devalued British pound to make the TD an unqualified success and 29,664 were sold in four years-three times the TC production. More than 80% of that figure (23,488) were exported to the US in four years’ production.

In the middle of 1951, the TD received a new engine block and sump, as well as a larger clutch and a new flywheel, and this iteration is now commonly referred to as the TD2. MG also manufactured 1,710 TD Mk IIs, which were essentially produced for club racers. The Mk II had 5.5 percent more horsepower (and a top speed of 83 mph), thanks to an increased compression ratio and bigger valves. Additional friction dampers, badges, a bulge over the carburettors, and chrome grill bars also differentiated the model.

In general, the MG T-Series delivers a pure 1940s to early 1950s driving experience, and the TD is no exception. Its mechanicals are robust and mostly easy to source, which makes ownership relatively straightforward. Like the TC, the cars were designed for weekly maintenance, however, so be sure that everything is greased and oiled before setting out.