Registration - XBV 353

Chassis No. - TC3538

M.O.T. - Exempt

Odometer - 12,887

Gloriously presented in British Racing Green, this MG TC Midget has spent much of its life in the Netherlands, though was a UK home market model when produced more than 75 years ago. The rich, dark green bodywork and grille is complemented by similar deep green leather upholstery, with wooden dashboard and chrome detailing inside and out. Fitted with MG’s 1.25-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and four-speed manual gearbox, ‘XBV 353’ includes a rear-mounted spare wheel, fitted black canvas roof, and beautiful details such as the art deco-style radiator cap ornament, and Bluemels Brooklands steering wheel.

This TC Midget was exported to the Netherlands in 1960 so the indicated 12,887 miles on the five-digit instrument cannot be warranted. ‘XBV 353’ returned to the UK in 2015, and has been well-cared for since. The seller reports that the MG was subject to a comprehensive restoration when overseas, but unfortunately there is no documentation for this. It does come with a Heritage certificate, original handbook, and tool-kit however, as well as a folder with what documentation is available, including reports from previous owners. The current owner considers the bodywork and paintwork as being in ‘good’ condition, while the engine, transmission, electrics, and interior are all rated as ‘excellent’.

MG’s T-Type cars were a series of models built from 1936 until 1955 – including the TA, TB, TC, TD, and TF. The first generation TA Midget was an evolution of the PB predecessor, continuing the two-seater roadster style. Built on an ash frame with a steel body, it allowed for the option of a Tickford drophead coupe for greater weather protection than the canvas-roof convertible. Called the T-Type until the TB was launched, the TA was replaced in 1939, but as only a few months between the start of production until the outbreak of the Second World War, fewer than 400 TBs were made before MG switched its factories to manufacturing military components. Launched in 1945, the TC was the first post-war MG, and although similar to the pre-war model, it had a wider cabin for increased comfort, and slightly modified version of the 1,250cc engine used in the TB. Greater styling changes were seen with the TD, and TF models, though the same 1.25-litre engine featured almost until the end of production, other than the introduction of a 1.5-litre unit from mid-1954. The TF was superseded by the MGA in 1955.

· Fine example of a post-war British classic roadster.

· Home market model, but it has spent 55 years abroad.

· Offered with Heritage certificate and original handbook.