HIGHLIGHTS

Residing in California until 2008
Restoration was carried out in the States
Extremely well presented

THE APPEAL

The first postwar model released in 1945 by MG followed on from its predecessor, the popular MG TB. The chassis remained the same as the TB, but the body gained four inches to give the cockpit more space. Just over 10,000 MG TCs were produced in the five-year production run.

This particular MG TC was originally a UK car that was exported at an early age to the sunny State of California. It is thought to have had just two keepers, one of whom was the late Phil Frank, a famous cartoonist who often featured the MG in his comic strip stories. Phil also had the restoration carried out, which was completed shortly before it came back to the UK in 2008. The MG had a complete engine rebuild, and since then it has covered just 12,276 miles.

This is a fantastic opportunity to own a restored MG TC, which is ready to jump straight into and enjoy.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

Registered 1st January 1947
UK registered 19th September 2008
Four UK keepers since 2008
Owned in the States by Phil Frank, a famous Cartoonist who often featured the MG TC in his work
Restored whilst in the ownership of Phil Frank by a specialist company that had maintained the car since the early 1980s
Several invoices are included for work carried out since coming back to the UK
There is some correspondence from previous keepers explaining the history of the car
The mileage is believed to be since the car was restored in 2008

THE INTERIOR

Original tan leather interior
Flora Barrod memorial teak dashboard
Nice original features

Inside, the MG is full of all the original charm from 1947. The tan leather seat is believed to be the original; this has faded ever so slightly, and there is some patina to the face of the seat, as you would expect, but it is still very comfortable. The leather door cards are also believed to be the originals and are in very good condition with no damage.

The Flora Barrod memorial teak dashboard commemorates the lady who contributed to the restoration of the MG TC. The dashboard presents well and looks free from splits or cracks. The instruments are clean and clear, with the odometer reading 12,276 miles. The switchgear all looks in nice condition and is reported by the vendor to work correctly.

The carpets are in good condition, and there are minimal signs of any wear other than what you would expect.

THE EXTERIOR

Finished in Old English White
Presented very well
Brightwork is excellent
Fold down windscreen

The MG TC was restored whilst in the States pre-2008. There has since been some paintwork carried out to the bonnet after a small engine fire in 2018. The paintwork is considered Old English White and is in good order with just an odd few marks here and there. There have also been a set of indicators fitted, which have been made in a way to be relatively discrete yet in keeping with the age of the vehicle.

The brightwork is in excellent condition, with minimal signs of tarnishing other than in a couple of small places, such as the mirror backs. The grille sits nice and straight and, again, has no obvious tarnishing to it. The headlights have no damage to the lenses, and the chrome backs are in excellent condition.

Looking down the sides of the MG, there are no dings or dents to mention; the doors open and close with a firm hand like you would expect. At the rear, a spare wheel is mounted to the luggage rack, which is in good condition with just minor signs of tarnishing, and there is some cracking to the tyre. The lights are in good order with no splits to the lenses.

The roof goes up and down with ease and fits tightly. There is a set of black side windows which could be fitted should you get caught in a shower. A tonneau cover is also included with the MG, which was new in 2019.

The wheels are finished in dark silver and are in excellent condition with no apparent signs of corrosion. The MG spinners are all in good condition with a bright chrome finish, and the tyres are a matching set with a good amount of tread remaining.

THE MECHANICS

1250cc engine
Restored engine bay in 2018
Electronic Ignition

The 1250cc engine fires up without hesitation. The vendor reports no issues with the car's running, and it drives very well. The engine was said to have been rebuilt in the States in 2005, and there is a full breakdown of the parts fitted in the invoice which can be seen in the gallery. The MG is reported to change gear as you would expect, and no untoward noises are coming from the engine or transmission.

The car is great fun to drive on the road, and it handles as you would expect for a 1947 car. The brakes are said to bring the vehicle to a stop in a straight line.

SUMMARY

It’s a well-known fact that any model of the MG has a huge following, with a fantastic range of clubs and a support network for all of the classics. So this is the perfect car for anyone wanting to step into the world of classic MG’s.

It would appear to be a well-maintained car which has covered very few miles since coming to the UK and has clearly been cherished by the previous owners, who have all played their part in keeping the MG in excellent condition.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.

All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.