MG TC

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Every young man’s dream of what a sports car should be, the MG TC appeared as soon as MG could resume car production in 1945.

With its big wheels, rear mounted spare, fold-flat windscreen, cutaway doors, separate wings and slab fuel tank, it retained the classic pre-war styling which was exactly what MG buyers were looking for, particularly car-hungry American ex-servicemen. These good looks and simple yet effective mechanicals helped the car to sell in important export markets and laid the foundation for MG's meteoric rise in popularity from the post-war austerity years to the more affluent 1950s.

Blessed with excellent agility, the TC was powered by an unburstable 1,250cc 54bhp OHV four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed synchromesh gearbox that enabled a top speed near 80mph. Roomier and more comfortable than the preceding T-Series models, the TC remained in production until 1949 when it was replaced by the TD. Exactly 10,000 were sold in total, the majority to export markets, although curiously, unlike the TD, it was only ever available in RHD.

This gorgeous TC dates from January 1948 and spent its first 67 years in America, finally returning to these shores in 2015 with just one UK owner since. A brass plaque under the bonnet indicates that it was originally supplied by Fergus Motors of New York City, and although there is precious little history with the car it has clearly been well looked after and is as clean and tidy underneath as it is up top.

Shortly after importing the car, our vendor treated it to a bare metal repaint which was done to a high standard and still looks wonderful today. He also went right through the car to sort any niggles including a top end overhaul with new valves, guides and gaskets; new fuel pump; new rear wheel bearings and propshaft UJs; new electric control box; new rev counter, speedo and steering wheel.

Supplied with a V5C, US Certificate of Title and sundry invoices, it also comes with a good quality canvas hood and sidescreens. In lovely condition all round, it is only reluctantly for sale due to lack of use and now just needs an enthusiastic new owner to give it the more regular exercise it deserves.