1949 MG TC Roadster

Description

The MG TC was the first British sports car to find favour with Americans after the war, paving the way for generations of Triumphs, Healeys and the like. Popular with film stars and racing drivers alike - Clark Gable and future World Champion Phil Hill were both TC owners - the first new post-war MG was largely based on the short-lived TB, albeit with some handy modifications to the suspension (new shock absorbers and conventional semi-elliptic springs in place of the sliding-trunnion suspension of the pre-war model) and the adoption of hydraulic brakes. The willing XPAG 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine developed 54 horsepower, delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed gearbox with synchromesh on second, third and top gears for easier changes. The TC retained the traditional, pre-war styling, with upright radiator cowling, flowing wings and fold-flat windscreen, lacking amenities such as bumper bars or even a heater - all of which seemed to add to the appeal. The only notable change from the TB was to make the body four inches wider across the cockpit. The TC responded well to tuning tweaks and was soon winning races all around the globe, including in Australia, and the vast majority of the 10,000 or so built ended up being exported. For many the TC is the pick of MG's evergreen T-series Midgets, striking just the right balance between the traditional styling and improved mechanicals. Sitting on skinny 19-inch wire wheels, the TC is the very epitome of the classic British sports car and remains as popular as ever, offering bags of charm and driver appeal along with a very healthy club scene.