Lot Ended
Description
Rare Stepspeed automatic; 39,173 miles from new; 12 months no-advisory
MOT; believed to be one of the last Stepspeed cars made
Launched in 2002, the MG TF represented the final evolution of the
MGF and was produced at Longbridge during the closing years of the MG Rover
Group. Featuring revised suspension in place of the earlier Hydragas system
along with sharper styling and improved chassis control, the TF offered a more
focused driving experience. Following MG Rover’s collapse in 2005 the model was
later revived under Chinese ownership, giving the early cars particular
significance as some of the last British-built MG sports cars of the modern
era.
Although first registered in 2007, this rare
‘Stepspeed’ automatic example in Ignition Blue was built in January 2005, making
it one of the final British-built TFs produced before MG Rover ceased
production. The vendor informs us that the car was retained unregistered by a
supplying garage for around two years as a showroom display, as being one of the
last Stepspeed cars made, it was something of a collector’s piece.
Having covered just 39,173 miles from new and
showing only three registered keepers, this smart mid-engined sports car was
driven to the sale and has recently passed its MOT with no advisories, offering
reassurance for the next owner. The car is accompanied by a substantial history
file showing very regular servicing and upkeep, including replacement of the
timing belt and water pump less than 7,000 miles ago.
We are also advised that the car has been upgraded with a number of
useful additions including an electronic boot release, rear parking sensors and
Lexus-style rear lights, further improving its everyday usability. As one of the
rarer Stepspeed automatic examples, the car can be driven in fully automatic
mode for relaxed cruising, while steering-wheel-mounted controls allow manual
gear selection when required, giving the car a broader appeal than the standard
manual version.
The Ignition Blue paintwork
presents very well with a good depth of shine and no obvious dents or
significant marks. The smart silver alloy wheels are in excellent order and
fitted with a matching set of recently fitted Toyo Proxes tyres, well regarded
for their grip and sporting characteristics.
The
hood is in good condition with no visible rips or tears, folds correctly and is
complemented by a factory wind deflector. Inside, the black ‘Sebring’ interior
trim remains in pleasing condition for the age and mileage, with minimal wear
evident, supporting the car’s low recorded mileage.
In summary, this is a unique opportunity to acquire a low-mileage,
late Longbridge-built MG TF in rare specification, combining the fun of a
mid-engined sports car with the ease of automatic
transmission.
With its strong history, attractive
colour combination and believed late production status (proved by accompanying
heritage certificate), it represents an enjoyable modern classic with genuine MG
Rover significance and plenty of appeal for the summer months
ahead.
Contact – jack.kenneally-perrin@brightwells.com