Vehicle Description
The MG TC has been described as ‘the sports car that began it all’ in America. Many American service men and woman returned from England following the war with enthusiasm for cars that were light, quick, nimble, and affordable. Those who were fortunate enough returned home with pre-war sports cars bought in England. But the post-war MG TC quickly went on sale in both England and the U.S. and just as quickly became an icon for another post-war export, road racing in America.
The MG TC was essentially the pre-war MG TB with minor revisions, retaining the TB’s 1,250 cc ohv four-cylinder engine, improved clutch, gear ratios and four-speed transmission with synchromesh on the top three gears. The distinctly pre-war styling with a folding windshield, cutaway doors and swept front and rear fenders sitting on narrow 19-inch wire wheels was instantly recognizable. Early owners eagerly waved in recognition to another TC. The MG TC remained in production until 1949, when the newer MG TD was introduced.
This exceptional 1947 MG TC Roadster is an early 1990s restoration that has been judged to the highest standards of accuracy and finish in rigorous Antique Automobile Club of America judging, presented with 1993-1994 AACA Junior, Senior and Grand National, and Senior Grand National awards. The restoration has been part of an important collection of English sports cars and continues to present to a very high standard, with matching engine and chassis tags. The exterior is finished in classic British Racing Green, with properly painted silver wire wheels mounted with correct Dunlop tires. The restored trim remains clear and bright. The interior has also been restored with correct ‘Biscuit’ light tan leather that is in very good condition and safety belts. The finish of the wood dashboard is superb, including clear gauges, all switches, controls and trim, fitted with a Bluemel Brooklands steering wheel. A tan cloth top and top boot add to the exterior presentation, along with Lucas King of the Road headlamps with correct and rare "Cat's Eye" lenses, a badge bar mounted with a single spotlight, an auxiliary horn and AACA awards, with dual spares mounted at the rear.
Under the hood, the quality and conservation of the restoration are again in evidence with the correctly painted firewall, hardware, accessories and trim all appearing like new. Mechanically, the car has recently been thoroughly gone over by a marque specialist who has given his highest blessing. This is an automobile that is an important part of post-war sports car history and that can be driven and shown with equal pleasure. This TC can be enjoyed on country roads and sunny days, welcomed at virtually any car show and concours aside from the very highest levels, or become an asset to any discerning collection of English automobiles.
