The TF was the end of an era, the last of the full-fendered British sports cars, an elemental design that could trace its roots to before the war. Today, however, cars like this 1954 MGTF are highly prized for just that reason, reminding us that fun in a car isn't defined by top speed. Restored in 2002 by Dave Raymond at Abington Classics in Connecticut, it has been driven just 400 miles since. The comprehensive restoration returned it to better-than-new condition in every way, including extensive rebuilding of the wooden body framework, which was a dying art when the TF was built. Bright red paint suits the stylish little roadster, and the exemplary fit and finish of the cut-down doors, sweeping front fenders, and long, pointed hood all point to true craftsmen at work. An evolution of the TD, the TF was updated with headlights fared into the front fenders, the grille was laid back slightly, but the basic "British-ness" of the car remained undiluted, and details like the upright windshield, rear-mounted spare, and graceful bumpers all give it an old-world look. All the chrome and trim was restored at the same time, plus new rubber weatherstripping, and correct rub strips on the running boards. Matching red leather with black carpets looks great in place of the more common black or tan, and the hides used remain as inviting as a roaring fireplace in a wood-paneled library. Fresh door panels and lovely padding along the curving dashboard give it a highly finished look for such an elemental sportster, with map pockets in the doors making it practical as well. The octagonal gauges mirror the MG logo and includes a tachometer, all surrounded by a lovely gold-toned instrument panel that looks incredibly upscale in this affordable car. That's also a lovely Brookings steering wheel, with the original wheel included with the sale of the car (although it needs restoration). A full tonneau cover is included, which is really the only real way to enjoy a British sports car, and a full set of top irons are also available should you wish to add a folding top and side curtains. The gutsy 1500 cc four-cylinder engine delivers the engine note Mazda engineers studied for months when developing the very first Miata, and given the car's light weight, it provides entertaining performance. Fully rebuilt and with less than 400 miles on the clock, it has been upgraded to run well on unleaded gas, the electrical system has been switched to negative ground (or earth as the British would say), and there's a 100% stainless exhaust system that will last forever. Dressed in MG Maroon on the block with a silver valve cover, the engine inhales through twin SU side-draft carburetors with a distinctive intake sound that you'll never grow weary of hearing. The chassis is still highly detailed, from the simple front A-arms to the lovely finned oil pan, to the 4-speed manual gearbox, to the original rear end hanging on leaf springs. The wire wheels have been correctly finished in silver (not chrome) and wear modern 165R15 radials that make it a delight to bend into a corner. Documented with restoration receipts, photos, and even a video, this is a beautifully finished TF with no stories. Call today! This vehicle is located in our Charlotte showroom. For more information, please call (704) 598-2130 or toll free (866) 542-8392.
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