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In 1936 M.G. introduced the new T-Series M.G.s, starting with the TA. In 1939 the TB was released with a new XPAG engine to replace the old MPJG unit. Although not as technologically advanced as the MMM overhead cam units of the 1930’s, the push rod XPAG performed well and was more affordable. Mated to the new, larger T-Series chassis, the T-Series cars proved a smashing success although in the beginning no one had any idea how popular they would become.
TB production ended abruptly with the onset of World War II, and when production resumed after the war in 1945 there was no money or resources for a new car design. The TB was therefore updated slightly and released as the TC. American GI’s stationed in England discovered these affordable, sporty cars and fell in love. Many brought them home at the end of their service, and Americans everywhere fell in love with the strange little cars from England. A new era was born – sports cars.
From that point on, North America became M.G.s largest and most important market, as TCs became favorites for club racing and raw fun. Many of the greats like Phil Hill and Carol Shelby cut their teeth in TCs. Losing sales to M.G. and other European makes, Ford and Chevrolet responded by releasing their own sports cars, the Thunderbird and the Corvette. All good things eventually end, and in 1949 the hopelessly outdated pre-war design of the TC was finally discontinued.
