MG TD Tire Pressures

• To find the ideal tire pressures to match your car's year, model, and chosen tires follow the link to our Tire Pressure Guides.

• Our suggested MG TD crossply tire is the 5.50 x 15 Excelsior or the 590 H 15 Avon Turbospeed.
• Our recommended MG TD radial tire is either the 155 HR 15 PIRELLI CINTURATO CA67, the 155 TR 15 Michelin X 165-15 Michelin XAS, or the 165 HR 15 PIRELLI CINTURATO CA67 depending on personal preference.
• To see more information on MG TD tires follow the link to our MG TD Tire Section.

MG TD Tires

In its production years, the MG TD was equipped with crossply tires, specifically in sizes of either 5.50-15, 5.60-15, or 5.90-15, according to our period fitment guides. For enthusiasts seeking original crossply tires, a few optimal selections are available: the 5.50 x 15 Excelsior is the top available tire in the 5.50-15 size; in the 5.60-15 size, the 5.60 x 15 Firestone is the ideal 5.60-15 choice; and for those pursuing a 5.90-15 tire, the 590 H 15 Avon Turbospeed emerges as the best available 5.90-15 option.

MG TD Radial Tires

For the MG TD we recommend fitting radial tires over crossply/bias-ply tires. Radial tires are preferred for their numerous advantages, including improved handling due to a flexible construction that ensures superior road grip. Their distinctive build also guarantees enhanced durability and longer tire life than a crossply, while reducing rolling resistance to boost fuel efficiency.

Moreover, they effectively dissipate heat, minimizing blowout risks and enhancing vehicular safety. The wider, flatter tread design also provides notable stability,especially during cornering, making them a go-to choice for drivers prioritizing efficient, safe, and stable Radial tires are also much better than crossply tires at handling the sustained high speeds expected on modern roads, crossply tires would likely cause a classic car to wander on the motorway, a radial tire will keep the car going in a straight line.

The two most suitable MG TD radial tire sizes are 165 R15 and 155 R15. Opting for the 155R15 tires maintains the same width as the original crossply tires, generally enhancing handling and ensuring lighter steering. On the other hand, selecting the 165R15 tires preserves the original diameter of the crossply tires, thus maintaining the vehicle's original gearing and ground clearance.

The 155 HR 15 PIRELLI CINTURATO CA67 is our recommended 155R15 tire. The CA67, introduced in 1952, was the first radial tire specifically engineered for sports cars. The Pirelli Cinturato CA67, with its belted radial design, was crafted with classic sports cars in mind, becoming a pivotal advancement in tire technology during the 1950s and 1960s.

Not only was it embraced as a hallmark of tire evolution, but the CA67 took precedence as the standard fitment for the illustrious supercars of that era, attributing to its apt design that catered to the distinct requirements of high-performance vehicles. The CA67 combined the robustness and reliability required for high-speed driving, earning its reputation and placement on some of the period's most revered sports cars.

The 155 TR 15 Michelin X is another good 155R15 tire, notably the first radial tire ever invented in 1946 and acclaimed for its longevity. This model, fitted to vehicles like the Citroen 2CV up to the 1980s, is particularly well-suited to 1950s chassis due to its historical and mechanical compatibility.

Our recommended 165 R15 tire is the 165 HR 15 PIRELLI CINTURATO CA67. Numerous vehicles from the 1950s and 1960s were originally equipped with crossply tires, commonly in the sizes of 5.50, 5.60, or 5.90X15. Upgrading to a 165 HR 15 PIRELLI CINTURATO™ CA67 tire would serve as an exemplary enhancement.

Longstone also recommends the 165 R15 Michelin XAS for the MG TD, which has been lauded since its inception in 1965 for its groundbreaking asymmetrical design, providing unprecedented road holding in bends and significantly improving directional stability. Thus, the XAS emerges as a great tire for those prioritizing high-performance use.

The 165 SR 15 Michelin XZX is our other recommended 165 - 15 tire. The 165 SR 15 Michelin XZX stands out for its exceptional value in the realm of saloon car tires, owing to its commendable quality and engineering since its initial production in 1976. The meticulous design of the XZX, especially the numerous thin sipes in its tread pattern, ensures enhanced wet grip by efficiently displacing water, providing a safe and comfortable driving experience by absorbing road imperfections.

MG TD Innertubes

The MG TD was equipped with tube-type wheels and innertubes throughout its manufacturing period, necessitating the use of innertubes with both original wheels and after-market wire wheels such as those made by Borrani. It's important to note that even when fitting tubeless tires on the MG TD’s tube-type wheels, innertubes are required to ensure proper fitting and functionality.

Based on extensive experience, our recommendation consistently leans towards utilizing Michelin innertubes when available, due to their reliable and superior performance.

Specifically, for all aforementioned tire types, the Michelin 15E is the ideal MG TD innertube, aligning with tire specifications and ensuring the best functionality.

History of the MG TD

The MG TD holds a special place in automotive history, standing out even within the distinguished MG series. This model was initially unveiled as the 1950 TD Midget in January of the same year, manifesting a blend of established and innovative engineering solutions by incorporating the TC's motor and a modified hypoid-geared rear axle. Additionally, it utilized the MG Y-type chassis and a well-recognized T-type form body, supplementing its design with independent front suspension using coil springs from the MG Y-type saloon.

The TD Midget, while maintaining smaller 15-inch disc-type road wheels, showcased a breadth of 5 inches more and a 50-inch track, also providing a left-hand drive option and fitted with standard features like bumpers and over-riders.

In conjunction with the regular vehicle, the TD MkII Competition Model made its debut in 1950, flaunting a more meticulously tuned engine, with an 8.1:1 compression ratio, yielding 57 bhp at 5,500 rpm. This higher compression ratio engine was particularly developed for export markets due to UK consumers still being constrained to 72 octane "pool petrol" as a result of wartime fuel restrictions. The TD MkII, therefore, presented additional attributes such as dual fuel pumps, extra Andrex dampers, and a higher ratio rear axle, catering to an international clientele.

By the time production wrapped up in 1953, approximately 30,000 TDs had been manufactured, with around 1,700 of those being Mk II versions. With a staggering 23,488 units being shipped to the United States, only 1,656 units remained domestically. The TD model caught the attention of automotive reviewers of the era, with a 1952 evaluation by The Motor magazine revealing the vehicle's ability to reach a top speed of 77 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 18.2 seconds, all while maintaining a fuel usage of 26.7 miles per imperial gallon.

The MG Car Company

The MG Car Company, with the moniker "MG" honoring William Morris (Lord Nuffield), originated in Oxford, England, and moved to Abingdon in 1930, ultimately concluding production in 1980. Under the astute leadership of manager Cecil Kimber since 1922, the MG brand made its debut in 1923, showcasing sporting cars derived from the Morris saloon car chassis. Being under the ownership of The Nuffield Organization, which also possessed several other marques including Wolseley, SU, and Riley, MG was a part of the merger with Austin in 1952, forming the British Motor Corporation (BMC).

Evolution Through Specific Models

Various MG models mark the journey of the brand through history, with the MGTA Midget introduced in 1936, introducing the iconic MG radiator design, swept wings, and other distinct features. Post-WWII, the company shifted its focus to the North American market, leading to the production of the MGTC from 1945 to 1949, followed by the aforementioned MGTD from 1949 to 1953.

During the MGTD production era, subtle yet impactful changes were incorporated into the models across different production years, such as the transition to ventilated steel wheels and chassis stiffening mechanisms. The pinnacle of MG TD production was realized in 1952, witnessing a gradual decline in sales by 1953. This historical pathway, marked by adaptations and innovations, has rendered the MG TD an unforgettable classic in automotive history.

Throughout its production, the MG TD underwent significant updates and improvements, enhancing safety, interior features, and the overall driving experience. These included the introduction of improved seat belts, strengthened body structures, and upgraded braking systems for enhanced safety. Interior refinements focused on increased comfort and convenience with improvements in seating materials, dashboard layout, and cabin ergonomics.

Technical advancements improved performance and reliability through upgrades to the suspension system, engine components, and drivetrain. The heating and ventilation systems were also enhanced for optimal comfort, while efforts to reduce cabin noise levels provided a quieter and more refined driving experience.

The MG TD continues to be cherished by collectors, enthusiasts, and fans of classic cars worldwide, standing as a testament to the unique spirit and legacy of MG Automobile.