UK vs United Kingdom — 1945 vs 1953
| TC Midget | Magnette ZA | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 54 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 64 lb-ft | 75 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,250 cc | 1,489 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 22.7 sec | 23.1 sec |
| Top Speed | 75 mph | 82 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 23.0 sec | — |
| Weight | 1,731 lbs | 2,420 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,388 mm | 2,591 mm |
| Length | 3,556 mm | 4,267 mm |
| Units Produced | 10,000 | 36,601 |
| Original MSRP | $2,400 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1945 MG TC Midget excels in quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity, while the 1953 MG Magnette ZA stands out for more power, higher top speed, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1945 MG TC Midget and 1953 MG Magnette ZA share a manufacturer in MG, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the MG brand. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1945 MG TC Midget producing 54 hp and the 1953 MG Magnette ZA delivering 60 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the MG TC uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,250 cc, while the MG Magnette relies on a Inline-4 OHV (BMC B-Series) with 1,489 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1945 MG TC Midget edges ahead at 22.7 seconds versus 23.1 seconds. The MG TC carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 689 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 10,000 units built, the 1945 MG TC Midget is considerably scarcer than the MG Magnette's 36,601 examples. On the collector market, the 1945 MG TC Midget commands a significant premium over the 1953 MG Magnette ZA, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1945 MG TC Midget rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.