Lot 003: 1949 MG TC

Introduced in late 1945, the MG TC struck a chord with the buying public despite being almost wilfully old-fashioned. Boasting a wider cockpit than its TB predecessor, the new model was similarly based around a ladder-frame chassis equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and nine-inch hydraulic drum brakes. With its dual-cowl dashboard, fold-flat windscreen, cutaway-doors, swept front / rear wings and rear-mounted spare wheel, the TC looked every inch the traditional sports car. Powered by the Abingdon marque's renowned XPAG 1250cc OHV four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed synchromesh manual gearbox, it was reputedly capable of 78mph. The last MG product to ride on nineteen-inch wire wheels, the TC attracted a strong following in the USA (especially among demobbed servicemen). Finished in red with black leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (engine, electrical equipment) or "very good" (four-speed manual gearbox, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork, wheels / tyres) condition. First registered in Edinburgh's Leith area during May 1949, 'GWS 34' is understood to have spent most of its life north of the border. Reportedly the subject of "a body off restoration" not to mention "lots of mechanical work including a gearbox, steering, brake and front / rear axle overhaul" the two-seater is further said to have benefited from "a new petrol tank and new carburettors". Kept in a heated garage but sparingly used since entering the current ownership three years ago, this smart MG TC is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until June 2008.