Introduced in January 2002 the MG TF is a practical, reliable and economical 2-seat sports car, just what MG tradition is based upon. It replaced the earlier MG F model, which had itself been launched in 1995.
The MG TF was the UK’s bestselling two seat sports car for each full year of production from 2002 to 2005, taking this mantle from the earlier MG F.
This car comes with Rover’s K series 4 cylinder multi point injection petrol engine, producing 134 bhp and fitted with a 5 speed close ratio gearbox.
Although based upon the MG F mid-engine platform, the MG TF was heavily redesigned and reengineered, the most significant mechanical changes were the abandonment of Hydragas suspension in favour of a conventional coil springs set-up with more precise damping control. In addition, a redesigned air induction system, along with new camshafts produces more power than in MG F engines and the torsional stiffness of the body increased by 20%. All combined, this provided the MG TF, with a harder edged and more involving driving experience over the MG F.
Various cosmetic changes include a revised grille, redesigned high performance twinned projector headlights, bumpers, side air-intake grills and rear boot.
This example in Trophy Blue, presents in lovely overall condition and benefits from additional upgrades that include 16” wheels, part leather seats and upgraded Bluetooth equipped DAB radio/CD player. Additionally, 13 stamps in its service book to date along with annual MOT history from 2007, combine to support its low mileage.
Having been well maintained, invoice history evidences, head gasket and cam belt change at 37.5K miles and another cam belt and water pump change at 52.3K miles and a full service at 54K miles.
Finally, as part of the pre-sales preparation the underside was treated a comprehensive underside preservation treatment.
As a future classic, this MG TF in excellent condition, with a comprehensive maintenance and service history, low mileage and additional upgrades, represents great value for money and with a “no advisories” MOT until December 2025, is ready to be driven and enjoyed.
Trophy Blue is one of the most sought after colours for MG TF and for good reason. The colour really accentuates the flowing lines and purposeful stance of the car and is beautifully offset by the silver painted alloy wheels.
As can be seen from the photos, the paintwork is in superb overall condition,
holds an impressive shine, is uniform both in colour and finish across all panels and all panel gaps are factory tight. As to be expected from a car of its age there are some very minor blemishes and evidence of some stone chipping to the bonnet.
The cloth soft top is in good overall condition and is free from any rips or tears, as is the plastic rear window, which is also not discoloured. As part of the pre-sales preparation, the soft top was professionally cleaned and re-waterproofed using Fabsil Gold.
As part of the pre-sales preparation, the car was subject to a sympathetic paintwork detail and treated to two coats of Swissvax’s excellent Crystal Rock wax, which provides up to 6-12 months paint protection.
All rubbers and plastics are also in excellent condition.
The MG TFs cabin is a nice place to be, the optional extra part leather/cloth seats show little wear and are comfortable, yet still supportive.
The clear and simple analogue gauge cluster incorporates a large rev counter and speedometer, with two smaller supporting gauges for fuel level and water temperature. The elegant 3 spoke leather rimmed steering wheel incorporates an airbag. Heating controls, rear fog light and electric window buttons are conveniently mounted in the central stack, immediately in front of the gear lever. Two additional gauges immediately below the central air vents provide a clock and oil temperature. With a perfectly-placed gear lever and well-spaced pedal box, it’s every bit the driver-focused interior you’d expect.
Cubby holes in the central tunnel and between the seats back rest, provide useful additional storage to the glove box, as well as 2 cupholders.
The car is fitted with an upgraded Blaupunkt Nurnberg 200 DAB BT which is a retro looking car stereo, but featuring a cd player, Bluetooth telephone calls (with built in microphone), music, DAB radio and front USB port.
The original carpets are in good condition, protected on both driver’s and passenger’s side with “MG” monogramed over mats.
All the switch gear, dials, lights, warning lights and heater, work as they should.
The front boot has remained dry and is fitted with a full size spare wheel, a complete tool kit, jack and wheel brace. The rear boot has also remained dry and is fitted with its original carpeting.
Finally, the car is fitted with a windstop behind the seats which when erected, reduces wind turbulence for a more comfortable open-top driving experience.
The K-Series engine is a gem that responds well, whether being driven gently or being pushed. This version with 135 bhp is perhaps the best compromise between the lower powered 115 bhp engine and the 160 bhp engine, that tops the TF range. With little weight to pull, this 1.8 litre 134 bhp version has plenty of go and thrives on revs.
The car has had its original head gasket replaced and benefitted from a recent cam belt and water pump replacement.
Having been well maintained throughout its life, its most recent service was at 54K miles. Prior to that both cambelts and water pump were changed at 52.3K. The head gasket was replaced at 37.5K miles
The 5 speed gearbox is a joy to use, with a short positive throw. The clutch engages smoothly and shows no undue signs of wear.
The mid mounted engine layout provides for a great handling car with excellent grip. On the road it feels agile, quick to turn, with little roll but and plenty of driver feedback.
The car rides well on its conventional springs and damper suspension set-up, providing a sportier more direct driving experience than its predecessor, the MG F, which was fitted with the softer more compliant Hydragas suspension set-up.
Invoice history evidences, front lower wishbones were replaced at the 54K service.
The car sits on factory option 7”x16” 11 spoke alloy wheels with 195/45x16 front and 215/40x16 tyres rear all with plenty of tread remaining. The wheels are in very good condition.
Fitted with discs brakes all round, invoice history evidences new front pads at 49K miles and a brake fluid service at 54K miles. Braking performance is strong and progressive, with no sign of pulling either to the left or the right.
The car has previously been waxoyled, however, as part of the pre-sales preparation, the car’s underside has additionally been treated to our comprehensive underside preservation treatment. This entailed an underside steam clean, any surface corrosion on mechanical, componentry wire brushed and treated with rust converter. This was then followed by the application of new stone guarding to the underside floor pans and then 2 coatings of clear DINITROL automotive rust prevention and corrosion protection, to all areas and mechanical componentry underneath the car and wheel arches.
This provides for a further level of corrosion resistance to those areas, which is long lasting and jet wash proof. This all adds up to a car that now has outstanding underbody protection from corrosion, even if driven on UK roads all year round.
The documented history folder, contains the registration document and clear Total Car Check dated 04/02/2024.
The file contains extensive maintenance and parts invoices and has 13 stamps to date in its service book, all evidence of the meticulous care it has received during its life. In addition, the car has been MOTd every year since its first MOT in 2007, only failing 2 over the period, which along with the service history corroborates both its low mileage and careful ownership.
The car comes with its Owner’s Handbook (which incorporates the service records) and 2 sets of keys.
Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy of the vehicle descriptions and information, some inaccuracies may occur. It is important that you do not rely on this information but check with Montpellier Motor Cars Limited about any items which may affect your decision to buy this vehicle, as well as examine the vehicle and check the accuracy of the information before purchasing any vehicle. We cannot accept any liability arising from any errors in the data provided.
Whilst every effort is made to represent details accurately on our Web Site, variations or errors may occur and so the information contained herewith does not constitute an offer for sale of any particular vehicle, accessory or specification.
