1939 MG TA Tickford Drophead Coupe

In 1936, MG introduced the TA and came with hydraulic shock absorbers fitted in both the front and rear. Synchromesh was added to the 2nd through 4th gear, and the hydraulic brakes were added to improve the stopping power.

In total, there were just over 3,000 examples of the TA produced, with about 260 examples fitted with the Tickford Drophead Coupe bodies. These low numbers of coupe bodies was due to the high cost of production. Coachbuilder Sammons of Newport Pagnell was the individual responsible for the Tickford Coupe. In addition to the three-position Tickford top included roll-up windows, full leather interior with carpeting, Bluemel steering wheel, trafficators, and bucket seats.

This particular TA Tickford Drophead Coupe has been given a complete nut-and-bolt restoration. It is painted in dark blue with a dark blue cloth top with folding chromed landau bars. It bears the original Tickford/Sammons badge on the interior and the Sammons-Pagnell inscriptions on the door sills. Inside, the leather seats are light grey and there is light grey carpeting and a wooden dash. The engine has polished aluminum valve cover and dual carburetors. There is a polished wood tool chest with all its original tools.

In 2009, this MG TA was offered for sale at the Sports & Classics of Monterey auction in Monterey, California presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $70,000-$90,000 and offered without reserve. The lot was sold for the sum of $132,000 including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2010