Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full rebuilds)
Instruction Style:
Step-by-step instructions with pictures
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Image Quality:
High Quality
Binding Type
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine Displacement:
1250 cc (76.3 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
2.91 x 2.75 inches (74 mm x 70 mm)
Carburetors:
Twin SU H2 or H4 carburetors
Performance
Horsepower:
Approximately 54 hp @ 4,800 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 65 lb-ft @ 2,200 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel Octane Rating:
Leaded gasoline, typically 87-90 Octane (or equivalent for modern unleaded with additive)
Lubrication
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5 US quarts (4.7 Liters) including filter
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed Manual
Optional
Optional Transmissions:
None (This model exclusively featured a manual transmission)
Features
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by production period, typically First: 3.64, Second: 2.20, Third: 1.42, Fourth: 1.00
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 90)
Clutch Type:
Dry Single Plate
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
86 inches (2184 mm)
Overall Length:
151 inches (3835 mm)
Overall Width:
55.5 inches (1410 mm)
Overall Height:
50 inches (1270 mm) (to top of windscreen)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,100 lbs (953 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2,600 lbs (1179 kg)
Weight Distribution:
Front: ~55%, Rear: ~45% (typical for this era's sports cars)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Ratings:
Not Applicable (Vehicles of this era were not subject to modern crash testing standards).
Active Features
Braking System:
Hydraulic Front Disc Brakes, Hydraulic Rear Drum Brakes (a significant advancement for its time)
Steering System:
Worm and Roller Steering
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Optional (Standard in later production, but not universally fitted initially)
Body Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with separate steel chassis
Windscreen:
Safety glass windscreen
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic dashboard instrumentation (Speedometer, Tachometer, Ammeter, Oil Pressure, Fuel Gauge, Water Temperature). Radio was an optional extra.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
None (This is a classic vehicle from an era before driver assistance technologies).
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (or as specified in manual, often more frequent for classic cars)
Grease Points Lubrication:
Regular lubrication of chassis points (weekly/monthly depending on usage)
Valve Adjustment:
Every 6,000 - 12,000 miles (or as needed based on engine noise)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Classic Car Specific Oil (e.g., 20W-50 or 20W-40 mineral oil with ZDDP additive for flat tappet camshafts)
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), suitable for classic engines
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (ensure compatibility with any original rubber seals)
Chassis Grease:
General Purpose Lithium Grease (e.g., EP-2)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Water pump leaks, king pin wear, oil leaks (rocker cover, sump, gearbox), carburetor icing/adjustment issues, electrical system reliability ( Lucas components historically), brake system maintenance.
MG is renowned for its sporty character, affordable performance, and 'Safety Fast' philosophy.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
MG TC
Key Improvements Over Tc:
Left-hand drive availability for the US market, larger 1250cc engine, Independent Front Suspension (IFS), rack and pinion steering (replaced with later worm and roller), Lockheed hydraulic drum brakes all round (later fitted with front discs).
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England
Total Production Numbers:
Approx. 9,637 units
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Significance:
Highly regarded as a classic British sports car, key in making MG accessible to a wider audience, particularly in North America.
Ratings
Club Ratings:
Consistently ranked highly by classic car clubs and enthusiasts for its driving dynamics and timeless styling.
Certifications
Restoration Standards:
Manual provides guidance for concours-level restoration and regular maintenance to achieve period-correct standards.