MG T Series In Detail TA-TF 1935-1955

The T Series MGs, starting with the TA introduced in 1936, represent the absolute archetype of the British sports car. They are recognised on the road by more people - including 'non-motoring' people - than any other model of classic car. They provide the authentic experience of sports car driving: the snug two-seater cockpit, quick steering, firm suspension, flat cornering, snappy gear change and lively engine. In terms of acceleration and maximum speed they were never outstandingly quick. Instead it was the way they behave that has won so many enthusiastic owners. Then there are the looks: the long bonnet, swept wings, cutaway doors, slab tank and rear-mounted spare wheel together established a unique style. In addition, the T Series MGs opened the door for the British sports car's conquest of the United States market. This book opens with an introduction highlighting the pleasures of T Series driving, followed by an exposition of the background that led to the introduction of the TA model, including the changes brought about by the influence of the Nuffield Organisation. Then comes a highly detailed technical analysis of the TA, covering every aspect of the chassis, running gear, engine and transmission. This sets the scene for the chapters which follow, on the rare TB, the TC which relaunched the family in 1945, the outstandingly successful TD, of which some 30,000 were made, and the final TF models. Each of these receives comprehensive treatment, including information on differences from previous models, production changes and numbers, performance and behaviour. Paddy Willmer, who for many years was editor of the MG Car Club's magazine Safety Fast!, provides a chapter on MG Ts in competition from the 1930s to the present day and takes a look at the T Series' competitors in the market, from BSA in the 1930s to the Triumph TR in the 1950s. For owners, present and prospective, there is also a section devoted to the practicalities of owning and using these cars today, including advice on parts availability, details of casting numbers for the cylinder heads and blocks, XPAG/XPEG Engine modifications, maintenance and preservation. Outstanding examples of all models have been specially photographed for this book and are featured in some 80 colour shots. There are also more than 140 black-and-white photographs drawn from archives as well as from MG sales and publicity material.