Lot 177 - 1947 MG TC
| Lot Number | 177 |
| Registration | JP 5955 |
| Chassis Number | TC1905 |
| Engine Number | B35231 |
| Odometer reading | 5,904 miles |
| Result | Sold - £28,300 |
- Comprehensive history file
- Single ownership from 1969 to 2013
- 11 year comprehensive restoration
- Recent £7,000 maintenance invoice
The MG TC was the first postwar MG launched in 1945. It was quite similar to the pre-war TB, sharing the same 1250cc pushrod-OHV engine with a slightly higher compression ratio of 7.4:1 generating 54bhp at 5200rpm. The makers also provided several alternative stages of tuning for 'specific purposes'. It was exported to the United States even though only ever built in right hand drive. The body was approximately four inches wider than the TB measured at the rear of the doors to give more cockpit space. The overall car width remained the same resulting in narrower running boards with two tread strips as opposed to the previous three. The tachometer was directly in front of the driver while the speedometer was on the other side of the dash in front of the passenger.
This wonderfully presented MG is offered in very good order throughout and comes with a comprehensive history file detailing its past. Previous custodians are recorded, the most significant of which being a Mr. Ratcliff who acquired the car in 1969 for the pricey sum of £190, remarkably the invoice for this sale remains with the car. Enjoyed for many years during his tenure, an astonishing number of invoices, letters and receipts were acquired. In 1974 Mr. Ratcliff moved to Hong Kong but left the car in his London garage where its condition gradually deteriorated. The decision was made for the TC to be transported to Hong Kong where a comprehensive restoration was commissioned in 1992. Included was an extensive rebuild of the body, engine, gearbox, wiring and interior. The exhaustive restoration took over 11 years to finish and was finally completed in 2003. Mr. Ratcliff enjoyed the MG on many classic car rallies in Hong Kong where it received numerous awards and in 2010 the car was repatriated to the UK. On its return the engine was extensively rebuilt by marque specialists before it was acquired by its next owner who used the TC occasionally over his five year ownership. Our vendor purchased the MG in 2019 and this year it has been treated to much maintenance work by Ricketts Restorations Ltd to the tune of £7,683. The steering box was replaced with an upgraded Datsun unit, brake cylinders and shoes were renewed all round, the brake system was extensively restored and four new wire wheels were fitted. However, the old wheels and various other spare parts are included with the car.
Offered with its original registration number (JP 5955), toolkit, tonneau cover and side screens, this superb looking example with its fabulous, documented history is on the button and ready for its next loving custodian.
Interested parties should note that this vehicle is now offered without reserve
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.