1949 MG TC Midget

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 TB’s 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 54 bhp at 5,200 rpm, delivered to the rear wheels through a four-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 TC’s appeal to hardy sports car drivers around the world. 

Somewhat of a rarity in original right-hand drive form as TCs were built primarily for the US market, this handsome, home-market, right-hand drive MG TC is classically finished in Shires Green with black leather upholstery and silver wire wheels. It was first registered on 26 August 1949 and still wears its original Gloucester registration number, JDF 108. On test, the old TC fired up absolutely on-the-button, sounded very heathy and still pulled nicely, shifting precisely through the gears and the drum brakes were remarkably effective (for a post-war MG that's not far off 75-years old). Overall the car presents rather well and still attracts admiring glances from all age groups when cruising through the Oxfordshire villages.

Some further attention and detailing would really bring this example up to its very best and would make a rewarding project for someone with the right skills. The MG is accompanied by a history file including a current V5c ready for ownership transfer and original TC Drivers Manual.