MG TC

The MG TC first appeared in 1945 and was essentially a revamped version of the pre-war MG TA / TB models. The TC had classic 1930's MG styling which was exactly what MG buyers were looking for, particularly car-hungry American ex-servicemen. With its dual-cowl dashboard, fold-flat windscreen, cutaway-doors, separate wings, rear-mounted spare wheel and slab fuel tank, it was every young man’s dream of what a sports car should be. These classic 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 pre-war austerity years to the affluent 1950s.

Despite its rather crude design, which included a flexible ladder-type chassis and all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and nine-inch hydraulic drum brakes, the car was blessed with surprising agility. It was powered by a simple 1,250cc cast iron OHV four-cylinder 54bhp engine mated to a four-speed synchromesh gearbox that enabled a top speed near 80mph. Roomier and more comfortable than the preceding models, the TC remained in production until 1949 when it was replaced by the TD.

This 1949 example is believed to have been delivered new to Dublin where it was to remain until some time in the ‘60s when it was repatriated to the UK. It was subsequently returned to Dublin in the 1990s, the log book showing just four keepers since 1954. The current vendor acquired the car from Belgian dealers “The Albion Car Company” who purchased it from the Dublin owner. Painted in cream with tan leather upholstery, it has clearly had a quality restoration at some point in the recent past and is in lovely condition throughout. Reported as running and driving very well indeed, it has recently had several new wheel cylinders fitted, comes with the rare optional special colour Bluemel Brooklands steering wheel reputed to have cost a whopping £80 in 1949 and a lovely beige mohair hood complete with sidescreens and tonneau cover. The original horn accompanies the car and just needs a new mounting bracket.

With nice TCs regularly on the market for upwards of £30,000, this lovely well restored example looks to be exceptional value at the suggested guide price.