Lot 020: 1946 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). According to the T-Register's (www.tregister.org) production record search facility, chassis number 'TC 0965' was built on 20th June 1946. Finished in red with biscuit leather upholstery, the appropriately registered 'MG 6998' is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Reportedly the subject of "an older restoration" before entering the current ownership in 1994, the two-seater is since understood to have received attention to its "back axle, clutch, exhaust, steering, brake system, wiring, carburetors, shock absorbers and king pins" from Colin Clifford Restorations Ltd of Grimsby. Consequently said to be "a good, drivable car", this charming MG TC is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 2009.