Solid History Since 1952: 1948 MG TC

In the not-so-distant past, an MG TC was a top-shelf collectible with a price that reflected its status among automobile enthusiasts.  Sadly, as the generation of Americans who discovered the joys of British sports cars in the first place are slowly going to their reward, more and more of these unique automobiles are being offered for sale at previously unheard-of prices.  Take for example this 1948 MG TC.  While it isn’t perfect, it is complete enough to be returned to the road with little fuss.  Do you think that this primitive British sports car can still charm younger generations if they would take a chance on it?

To understand British cars during the World War II period and immediately afterward, one has to take into account the differences between travel in Great Britain and that in the United States.  Once you get past the idea that they drive on the wrong side of the road in cars that have the steering wheel opposite of where God intended it to be, the concepts of space and distance are different as well.  British roads, for the most part, reflect their origins from when animals provided the prime motive power.  Thus, they are narrower, especially in towns and cities, and the distances between destinations are relatively short by our standards.  In America, we almost always have the blessing of space and distance.  While small cars with small engines are the norm in the Mother Country, one could make the argument that a big vehicle with a big engine capable of respectable speeds is almost required to be an American motorist.

With this in mind, you can see how British cars had an uphill climb in the American market before World War II.  It was during the war that Americans stationed in Great Britain first encountered British sports cars.  Getting behind the wheel of an early MG sports car must have been a very different experience for a car-loving American.  When the war was over, companies like Morris Garages needed work to survive and domestic sales were almost nonexistent.  Exporting sports cars to the United States was a good business move that was also crucial for financial survival.  Having several freshly minted disciples of the religion of speed and proper handling to purchase these cars and spread the word of their greatness helped tremendously.

Many claim that cars like this 1948 MG TC were the start of the foreign sportscar movement in America and they are correct to a great extent.  This particular MG is an early example that was built on September 24, 1948 and is believed by the owner to have originally been a black car with a red leather interior.  The well-cared-for interior you see above is claimed to be that same red leather from 76 years ago.  The engine is also original to the car and it turns over without issues.  While it currently does not run, it is believed that the usual maladies caused by gummed-up old gasoline are the reason.  The car, which will come with a copious amount of documentation and information dating back to 1952, will need a convertible top replacement and a set of side curtains.  There is no mention of the condition of the extensive wood framework between the body panels.  Chances are the wood in the car is still in great shape if the original interior is still presentable.  The seller does mention that the amateur paint job needs some work as well.  In all, this car represents a great chance to put a legendary sports car in your garage for relative peanuts.  Hopefully, it finds a good home.

If you appreciate the history of sports cars in America, then this 1948 MG TC for sale on Craigslist in Middletown, Pennsylvania could be a perfect addition to your collection.  This nearly all-original MG is complete and being offered at a very reasonable $13,000.  Thanks to Mitchell G. for this marvelous tip!