1949 MG TC 'EX-U' Midget

1,250cc OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
2 SU Carburetors
70bhp at 5,500rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Front Beam Axle with Leaf Springs - Live Rear Axle
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Desirable, end-of-the-run export EX-U TC built a few hundred cars from the end
*Well-preserved condition with many factory finishes intact
*Retains its matching numbers engine
*Great touring MG for club events


THE MG TC

The right-hand drive TC Midget appeared in 1946, and was almost identical in appearance to the pre-war Types TA and TB. The sporting little MG was brought to the US in considerable numbers by GIs returning from England and soon gained a strong following, especially in California and on the east coast. These MGs had many endearing features, including a slab fuel tank, 19-inch diameter wire wheels, folding windshields and octagonal dashboard instruments. Sales got a great lift when a Life Magazine photographer shot one being driven underneath a big lumber carrier on a Los Angeles street. Many soon found their way into amateur racing, and almost every one of the legendary American sports car champions of the post-war era began their careers in a TC.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Here is a delightfully original example of the diminutive, classically styled two-seat Roadster that is credited with sparking America's love affair with imported sports cars after World War II. This TC was completed at the Abingdon works during the Fall of 1949, and completed with the EX-U chassis prefix, indicating that the car was built for Export, and most likely destined for the US market. The MG was completed just a few hundred cars from the end of production, and just about 500 such EX-U examples were officially imported into the US in 1949, accounting for fewer than 5% of all TC models built. The car was most likely finished as it appears today, in MG Red with Vellum beige interior and matching tan convertible top and side curtains.

Today this charming little TC Midget presents beautifully inside and out. It is apparent that some high-quality restoration work was performed in the past, while many original factory finishes remain intact, including much of the chrome and brightwork. Original ID plates and factory stampings are in situ, and the engine is dressed with an alloy valve cover. Classic silver painted wire wheels are fitted, with a 5th spare strapped to the back, and an original tool kit accompanies the car. For those collectors looking for fun sports car for weekend drives on twisty backroads, this beautiful example is worthy of serious consideration.