1948 MG TC Roadster

While the Morris Garages made a variety of sports cars and saloons, it was the MG TC, first available in 1947, that gained world recognition and established it as a sports car icon in the post-war sports car world.

In 1945 MG produced 81 examples of the TC. This was an astonishing accomplishment due to World War II just ending. During the war many automobile factories had been transformed into military supply plants which produced items in support of the war effort. Factories throughout Europe were bombed daily, demolishing or devastating many factories and sealing the fate of many companies. MG, however, was one of the lucky few that emerged at the end of the war and quickly began filling a gap that had become void due to the war. The world was ready and anxious to get back to racing. Enthusiasts were once again searching for a nimble vehicle that could carry them quickly through sharp corners and propel past the rest of the competition. Many American GI's who were based in Europe desperately searching for an American-equivalent sports car. The MG TC sports car was welcomed with open arms. It utilized technology from the 1939 TB which helped in its rush into production. It continued in production until 1949 when it was replaced by the MG TD. Over 10,000 TC models had been produced.

The example shown has a four-cylinder engine that produces just over 50 horsepower. It has a four-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes, and a leaf springs and beam axle suspension. It carries chassis number XPAG6578.

At the 2006 RM Auction in Monterey, CA this 1948 MG TC was expected to fetch between $20,000 - $35,000. It exceeded those expectations with a winning bid of $35,200.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2012