1947 MG TC

A landmark in the history of MG, the TC was the first British sports car to sell in serious numbers globally, proving a huge success in America where it paved the way for generations of Triumphs, Austin-Healeys and numerous others. Launched in 1945, the TC may have been a mildly revamped version of the short-lived TB, but the formula of traditional sports car styling, sparkling performance and affordability made the latest MG a winner, with some 10,000 examples rolling off the production lines at Abingdon over the next five years. Some useful modifications were made to the TBs suspension, with new shock absorbers and conventional springs in place of the sliding trunnion set-up of the pre-war model. The willing 1,250cc four-cylinder engine produced 54bhp at 5,200rpm, delivered to the rear wheels through a 4-speed gearbox with synchromesh on second, third and top. With its upright radiator, separate wings and a fold-flat windscreen, the MG's steadfastly traditional appearance bucked prevailing styling trends, lacking amenities like bumper bars or even a heater, all of which only seemed to enhance the TCs appeal to hardy sportscar drivers around the world.

This charming 1947 MG TC was fully restored between 2002 and 2005 and the quality still shines through, providing the gentle patina that we all admire. The ground-up restoration included blasting the chassis and finishing with a high quality powder coat topped with a new Hutson body tub. At some point the original engine has been replaced with a 1,359cc unit (B9898) and XPAG Engineering carried out a full rebuild on this engine and gearbox. The car is fitted with the improved steering box and updated rear axle seals, and was treated to a four wheel geometry set-up. The interior was retrimmed in tan leather and looks splendid with its original Jaeger instruments and Bluemells sprung wheel and it has a full set of weather equipment including a half-tonneau. It wears a correct Lucas FT27 fog light and the high-level brake light is removeable for the sake of originality. Finished in the best colour for post-war Britain and a timeless design that still cuts the mustard.

This well sorted MG TC represents the best of post-war light sportscars and still catches the eye. Start arranging your driving tours and include a meet at Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb - quintessentially English like this lovely MG.