Highlights
- Full restoration carried out between 1982 and 1988, with a high level of care and strict adherence to authenticity
- Correct matching-number engine restored by specialists Browns & Gammons LTD
- Comprehensive restoration file documenting all work carried out and the associated correspondence
- Show-prize winner at concours events in England after restoration
- Known history since 1971, with attentive servicing since restoration
About
The MG TC is one of the iconic models that helped kick-start the post-war sports car movement. Its light, eager chassis, willing XPAG engine, and instantly recognisable pre-war silhouette won over an entire generation of enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic.
This 1949 example has undergone a complete restoration between 1982 and 1988, carried out between Switzerland and England. The engine was entrusted to Browns & Gammons, the well-known specialists for the marque. The entire car was rebuilt—mechanicals, bodywork, chassis, upholstery, and electrics—with the clear goal of preserving the original configuration as faithfully as possible.
A dated inspection report from 1989 describes it as “probably one of the finest MG TCs in the country”, and it went on to win several awards at concours events in England.
Today it presents a beautifully evolved patina that’s built up over nearly forty years of careful use since its restoration. The structure is reported to be sound, with good alignment of the doors and hinged panels. The engine should run very well, offering a steady idle and pleasant low-speed torque.
Only three owners have followed one another over the past twenty years. The current owner acquired it in 2021 for its history, authenticity, and character. Registered in France on a French collection number plate (carte grise de collection), with confirmed serial numbers, it strikes a much-sought-after balance between documented authenticity and real-road use.
Key information
- Mileage: stated 70,550 km
- Country of registration: France (collection number plate)
- MOT test certificate: exempt
- Engine: 1,250 cc XPAG, four-cylinder petrol
- Gearbox: four-speed manual
- File: detailed restoration file, correspondence, 1989 inspection report, collection registration documents
Details
- Full restoration between Switzerland and England: mechanicals, bodywork, chassis, upholstery and electrics
- Stored dry; sound body with correct door alignment
- Time-worn, patinated paintwork; wings and wheel-arches reported to be in very good condition
- Good-condition, functional hood (soft top), side screens, and tonneau cover
- Patinated leather trim and carpets, but presentable
- All instruments working, except the clock beneath the rev counter
- No reproduction parts reported by the seller
- Speedometer recalibrated to km/h in 1984 by Vintage Restorations
- Original 30 MPH tell-tale discreetly converted into an indicator for turn signals/indicators
- Electronic ignition 123 installed for reliability; original distributor supplied
- Slight leak at the rear crankshaft oil seal, a known weak spot on the model
- Gearbox and clutch in good working order
- Effective brakes, converted to silicone fluid
- Steering modified with a VW-type housing to reduce play
- Correct and effective headlights; original units today are difficult to find
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to Car & Classic’s general terms and conditions. By placing a bid and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s general terms and conditions.
✓ We require non-refundable fees to be paid if you are the successful bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and general terms and conditions for the specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “sold as is”, on a “tel quel, where is” basis and without any warranty. The photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only, and it’s customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer’s deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or submission price, as specified in the advert.
✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just like you do, and that’s why cars and motorcycles registered in the UK and listed on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to confirm that they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and that they’re not subject to a financial charge—allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of a total loss claim at the time the advert is placed on Car & Classic, and we provide category write-off labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to assist you. However, the presence or absence of a label doesn’t guarantee the vehicle’s status, and it’s always useful to carry out a full vehicle history check before making an offer.
✓ Buyers are responsible for collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may involve additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can help you. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.
