With limited production beginning in November 1949, the notably early VIN number of XPAGTD609 identifies this MG TD, produced in January 1950, as just the 358th to leave the production line. This, and its rare right-hand drive configuration, may well reward further historical research. It’s a matter of lore that American servicemen deployed to Britain in World War II and after found the warm beer just as much of a revelation as the diminutive sports cars, but found the latter far more palatable. The TD was developed with American tastes in mind. The revised chassis frame of the new MG TD two-seater was 5 inches wider, greatly improving the formerly rather tight accommodation. It was considerably lower, too, riding on wider 15-inch wheels in place of the spindly 19-inch ones. The harsh ride was greatly improved with independent front suspension and softer springing, as well as greater travel on the rear. Steering was now rack and pinion, and there were even front and rear bumpers. Additionally, the 1250cc inline-4 with twin SUs returned a respectable top speed of just over 70 MPH. With the TD, an MG also became available in left-hand drive for the first time, but not so this early example. Whether it was a personal import or specifically ordered in right-hand drive and perhaps first enjoyed on the winding country lanes of England is worthy of further investigation. To add further intrigue, the relatively rare, but factory-correct, Clipper Blue livery is generally regarded as an export color. What is clear is its overall pleasingly stock, ex-factory appearance, preserved in its 1983 restoration, which included its new paint, upholstery, door panels, carpet kit and hubcaps. In addition, the engine block has been cleaned, the cylinder walls were honed, and a new crankshaft and pistons were installed. The solid steel-disc wheels, rather than round slotted affairs, are also consistent with earliest factory production models. Similarly, the Bluemels-type three-spoke Bakelite plastic steering wheel is period factory correct. It’s joined by a rare set of original tools and the bonnet framework with a new vinyl top still in the box, and the accompanying original owner’s manual may yield further insights into its history. Regardless, this early TD represents the initial flowering of the American love affair with the MG marque, for of the 29,664 built, an astonishing 23,488 were exported to North America.
