Description
Just Arrived at The Garage
1948 MG TC - Matching Numbers - exceptional history
Australian-Delivered Example | 68 Years in Australia | Exceptional History | Siuperb Chassis & Original Interior
Few MG TCs can boast such fascinating provenance or such a well-documented life.
Manufactured in 1948 and supplied new the following year by Lane's Garages of Melbourne, Australia, this delightful matching-numbers TC was to spend some 68 years in Australia before returning to the United Kingdom in 2017. The original Lane's dealer plaque remains proudly fitted to the dashboard today, a charming reminder of its early history.
The accompanying history file is particularly impressive. Remarkably, it includes a handwritten mileage and maintenance record covering the period from November 1953 until June 1963, by which time the MG had covered 103, 340 miles. Period documentation and receipts survive from the 1960s onwards, together with extensive correspondence, invoices and photographs charting the car's subsequent life and restoration.
After being taken off the road during the 1960s, a lengthy and comprehensive restoration was eventually undertaken. Benefitting from many years in the dry Australian climate, the body and chassis were reportedly found to be remarkably sound.
The original body panels were refitted to a new oiled timber frame, with the chassis refreshed by Jack Pryer. The matching-numbers engine was rebuilt by Eric Pengilly to what was described as fast-road specification, while the gearbox was also rebuilt.
Considerable effort was made to source new old stock and original components during the restoration. These included the radiator, exhaust system, steering column and box, steering wheel control cables, wiring and numerous chrome fittings. The restoration was eventually completed in 2006.
Importantly, the MG retained much of its original character. The original black with green interior and grille colour scheme was preserved, together with the instruments, much of the weather equipment and, most notably, its wonderfully mellow original green leather upholstery.
A new set of leather seat covers accompanies the car should a future owner ever wish to fit them, although we feel the original leather, with its lovely patina and character, is very much part of this TC's appeal.
Following its return to the UK in 2017, the car underwent extensive recommissioning and has subsequently benefited from further specialist attention. Work by Classic MG Services included rebuilding and setting up both carburettors, engine tuning, replacement of the water pump, attention to the radiator and grille and repair of the original regulator box. The braking system has also received considerable attention, including the front brakes, hub and bearings.
Following completion of the restoration, the MG has seen relatively modest use but has recently been serviced and enjoyed on the road once again.
Accompanying the car are its original handbook, toolkit and jack, together with a tonneau cover, spare leather seat covers and the substantial history file.
Finished in black with its beautifully aged green interior, this is a particularly appealing TC. It presents extremely well while retaining the small details, originality and patina which give an old motor car genuine character.
With matching numbers, its original Australian dealer plaque, fascinating early mileage records and unusually comprehensive history, this is a TC with considerably more to offer than first meets the eye.
Interested to know more about this car and its history?
For further information, or to arrange a viewing, please contact Robin or Michelle:
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We regularly sell cars throughout the UK, Europe and the USA, with fully insured UK transport and worldwide shipping and export assistance available.
Viewing is strictly by prior appointment.
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