Sold for: $ 27,825

Owned & restored for Ted Herman of the famous Ted Herman Orchestra - The MG T-Series was a line of vehicles produced by MG from 1936-1955 that featured a range of open two-seater sports cars. Following the production of the MG TA through MG TD, the MG TF was the final cars of the series, launching in 1953. The TF has been nicknamed ‘the last of the square riggers’ by many, as most British car manufacturers has moved on to producing more modern and streamlined vehicle by the mid-1950s. This model has a few mechanical alterations from the previous TD, retaining its predecessor’s body center section, but implementing a changed front end with a shortened, sloping, radiator grille, headlamps faired into the wings, and an improved interior with separately adjustable seats. The original TF had also retained the previous model’s 1250cc, XPAG engine, but was later replaced by a 1466cc XPEG engine. This newer version of the TF was dubbed the TF 1500. Visually, it was very difficult to differentiate the TF from the TF 1500. The only exterior differences between the two vehicles were discreet ‘TF 1500’ motifs on each of the bonnet side panels, and the addition of two rear reflectors. After 18 months of producing the TF 1500, the model was retired. During its lifetime, 9,602 TF’s had been manufactured, as well as two prototypes and 3,400 of the upgraded TF 1500. Production ended at chassis number TF10100 on April 4th, 1955 and the TF series was later replaced by the MGA. You spot it from a distance. The sunlight glistens off its clean red finish. With its top down, the cherry red leather interior of the MG TF invites you in. At the same time, its menacing sloped grille and headlights intimidate you. They beg the question ‘Are you ready to take on this beast?’ You approach the driver’s side door, in awe of the beautifully rounded side paneling that spans the entire length of the car. Hinged towards the back of the car, the door swings outward, giving you a full glimpse of the incredible craftsmanship that went into this vehicle. The steering wheel is mooth to the touch, as is the rest of the dash. Sitting there in admiration of the fine piece of machinery, you almost wish you had a passenger to experience it with you. But not today! Today, it’s just you, the beast, and the open road. You insert the keys into the ignition and reach for the starting knob. The engine roars as the car starts, but then recedes to a reassuring purr. Finally, you work up the courage to bring your foot to the gas pedal and pull out onto the road. You rest your arm on the side of the door as you run your fingers across the car’s smooth black exterior. Gripping the wheel with one hand, your fingers fall almost perfectly into the grooves on the back of the steering wheel. The wind in your face is cool, but the sun on the back of your neck keeps you warm. With a single hand on the wheel, you cruise down the street, slowly picking up speed. The attitude and intimidation that this machine had once instilled in you has now become a part of you. All your doubts and worries slowly drift away, settling alongside the pedestrians that gaze as you drive off into the distance. Finally, a feeling of calmness and relaxation washes over your body. Not only were you prepared to take on this beast, you’ve now conquered it. This particular MG TF 1500 from 1955 has been well loves and pampered over its years of ownership. A documented $30,000 restoration was performed with the original color combination. A full leather interior and the seats are finished in stunning cherry red. This MG TF comes equipped with StaFast canvas convertible top, side curtains and tonneau cover. In addition, it comes with the original wire wheels and Yokoham 165/15 radials. Seatbelts added. This TF was built for export to California. It was sold to Continental Motors in Whittier, CA to an engineer and pilot who lives in the affluent community of Palos Verdes. Being shipped from California, it possesses an immaculate rust free body with all original panels that fit wonderfully. $30,000 restoration documented with photos.