Here’s everything you’ll ever need to know about why I want to own a TVR Tasmin 280i, just like this one found on craigslist by Barn Finds reader TGM: a video of a Tasmin idling and revving out in first gear. How good does that sound?! I’ve always loved these things for the brutal noises they make and the goofy wedge-shaped profile they sport, but also for the low cost of entry – even for a low-mileage survivor like this car. The Ford-sourced Cologne V6 is a healthy engine and as seen above, makes some great noises. Though build quality was always TVR’s Achilles heel, this example appears sound, with a crack-free dash fascia and gorgeous leather seats. I’d love to own a coupe version someday, but they rarely come up for grabs. With only 13,000 miles on the clock, this looks like a deal – what do you think?
There’s an ’85 I sent to Jesse yesterday for $4,950 here: http://www.hemmings.com/classifieds/cars-for-sale/tvr/280i/1765480.html
I use to work on a couple of these and really enjoyed driving them. They are pretty straight forward to work on with only the front left spark plug giving a problem because it hides under the account compressor. Rear is basically jaguar. One area to watch is the frame as it is basically 1″ square tube. U think it was originally powder coated and by now some of that has cracked and allowed moisture in.
The cologne v6 is a fine engine but they really needed more power. I would have loved to try one of the euro ones with a v8 or possibly a good engine change would be a modern ford v6.
Build quality, well let’s say you are going to get wet if it rains. The target top on both the ones I drove had the unique design feature of funneling the water onto the drivers lap. I never tried it but I think you would stay drier with the top off and just driving…fast.
The Cologne V6 is a marvelous engine, when revved you’re forgiven if you mistake the sound for a V12 Ferrari. Is that due to the firing order or what??
Looks like something home-made in someone’s basement.
I am the owner of the car pictured here. It is not “long gone” as the link indicates. It is for sale on craigslist in Champaign Illinois.
Some aspects of the TVR do look handmade and since the car is that is a correct observation. I suggest a Miata to those who find that a negative and of overriding importance.
No one should even be allowed say the name TVR without having driven one.