By a long shot, the best TC we have ever had, the best I have ever driven, and the best I have ever seen. On the road, in collections, at shows, anywhere.
First of all, a complete, body off, frame up restoration with incredible attention to detail. Having owned dozens of TCs since my first, back in 1974, one can quickly pick up the subtle details. Super rare to have the fast idle cable/knob working....this one does. And rare to see the chrome King of the Road dash interior lights working. They do. And such details as the proper 8" Lucas headlight lenses, King of the Road fog light (which works), the single rear D light, every detail done to perfection.
Chassis is mint/perfect, body is mint/perfect, paint is gorgeous, interior is leather and all new, has new top, side curtains (all have never been used), tonneau, half tonneau, all gauges work properly, AND..........with 1900 miles since the restoration was finished, it is still 'like new.'
AND.........not to forget some not so subtle additions. Like the rebuilt, perfect working Marshall supercharger which must raise the power from a pitiful 54.4 to at least 75-80. And when you put your foot down (as I have done) it really moves. Very 'un TC' like.
AND.........there is more........fitted with a rebuilt Ford T9 five speed transmission. As it uses a stock shift lever, can only be seen from underneath. But what a difference! First of all, all synchromesh. Second, close ratios. Third, a fifth gear for easy highway cruising. And finally, as this unit was built for a 170hp turbocharged Ford Sierra (in the USA a Mercury Merkur), it should last forever.
Can't begin to describe the ease of use, the pleasure of operation, and the pure joy of driving a supercharged, 5 speed MG TC. It is like a whole new world of classic car driving. And with all new wiring (cloth covered), all rebuilt or new electrics, excellent steering, surprisingly soft ride, and those wonderful 19" wire wheels, this car offers a lot for driving, show, and even (should you be in the mood) vintage racing (have already installed racing seat belts).
Wood floors have been varnished and look like the deck of a fine old boat, has the correct banjo steering wheel, wipers work, 'numbers match,' grille shell is excellent, grille color matches the interior (as it should), every bit of chrome has been replaced or redone, doors shut (and stay shut) securely, and one never beats the synchros when shifting. All in all, like nothing I have ever encountered.
So, there it is. A dream MG TC. Intended for my own collection but three early Morgans in barn have voted 'nay.' So, I really have no choice. However, for the next lucky owner....advice....have us add twin Brooklands racing screens, in anything but cold weather, drive the car with the windshield folded flat, and be in classic car heaven.
At the moment, for (so far) 100+ thoroughly enjoyable miles on the twisty local New England roads, the experience has been exhilarating.
