We live in a digital society, and nowhere is this better demonstrated than in the automotive world. From electronic engine management to traction control and touchscreens that control many functions, the car now owes as much to microprocessors as it does to mechanical engineering. However, those seeking a more “analog” approach may find this 1986 TVR Tasmin 280i to their liking. It will provide a pure driving experience, and the seller’s price makes it undeniably affordable. They have listed the 280i here on Facebook Marketplace in Atlanta, Georgia. It could be yours for $6,500, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Chuck F for spotting this British classic.

Established by Trevor Wilkinson in 1946, TVR was, at one point, the third-largest specialized manufacturer of sports cars on the planet. The company has since changed ownership several times and has started and stopped production several times during the post-Wilkinson years. The Tasmin broke cover in 1980, and it is fair to say that the styling divided opinions. Some were quite taken by the “wedge” appearance, while others considered it an acquired taste that they had no desire to acquire. Our feature car emerged from the Blackpool factory in 1986, with its first owner ordering it in Italian Red. The car makes a positive first impression, with the paint holding a healthy shine, and no signs of significant fiberglass defects. The 280i sits on a steel frame that TVR powdercoated, and with this car spending its downtime stored indoors, rust shouldn’t be a problem. The seller recently installed a new soft-top, while the glass and wheels are in good condition.

Sadly, the seller supplies no engine shots, but there is plenty of information to compensate for this shortcoming. As the model designation suggests, the engine powering this classic has a capacity of 2.8-liters. Sourced from Ford, it is a fuel-injected Cologne V6 producing 160hp and 163 ft/lbs of torque. The four-speed manual transmission and front end also came from Ford, while the company utilized a Jaguar rear end that could comfortably cope with the power generated by the V6. The power and torque figures don’t promise startling performance, but this car’s party piece is its curb weight of 2,251 lbs. That isn’t much, allowing the 280i to accelerate from 0-60mph in around 7.5 seconds. Keeping the pedal to the metal rewarded the driver with a top speed of 133mph. The seller indicates that this TVR has hibernated for over two years and that it needs a fuel pump, clutch master cylinder, and valve cover gaskets. However, with those inexpensive items installed and a thorough inspection, it should be ready to return to its rightful place on our roads.

This classic’s interior is typical TVR fare, although the roll bar and CD player are later additions. The bucket seats feature new leather covers, while the remaining upholstered surfaces are in good order. There are no issues with the dash or the beautiful Momo wheel, although the carpet fit is a bit “off.” However, it may respond to some stretching and tweaking. If that proves the case, it will cost more time than money to have this interior presented nicely. It isn’t lavishly equipped by modern standards, but the air conditioning, power windows, and power antenna are nice touches.

This 1986 TVR Tasmin 280i will provide its new owner with a more modern twist on the classic British sports car. The styling won’t appeal to all tastes, but few cars can achieve that feat. However, it is distinctive, and with many of its mechanical components sourced from Ford, locating parts to keep it on the road for decades shouldn’t be difficult. The seller’s price is affordable, but is it enough to tempt you to pursue this classic further?