As we all know by now, I will roll the dice willingly on very risky projects, often with limited time spent looking over the car in question. What can I say – we all have to live dangerously somehow, even if my preferred way ends up with my neighbors not liking me very much. This 1974 TVR 2500M is exactly the kind of car that if I were standing in front of it, I would have a hard time resisting despite the fact that it is a basketcase of epic proportions. The seller provides next to no information other than noting the engine has been disassembled. Find this forlorn British sports car here on Facebook Marketplace for $5,000 in Coram, NY.
Now, I believe this is a 2500M, owing to the taillights that wrap around the side of the body and the design of the wheels. The 2500M wasn’t the biggest bruiser in TVR’s lineup of high-powered sports cars with low curb weights, but it was still an enthralling drive owing to its razor-sharp handling, lightweight, and low-slung driving position. The 2500M borrowed heavily from the Triumph TR6, including a 2.5L engine and four-speed manual gearbox. The car was not necessarily quick but handling was impressive out of the box and certainly the exclusivity factor alone made the TVR a conversation piece. This car has been repainted (badly) it seems and appears to be missing its original rear bumpers. On the upside, the door shut lines look good here and the large rear glass canopy is intact.
With the nose panel removed, we can see a multitude of issues, ranging from mismatched tire sizes to an engine that has clearly been torn down to some extent with no mention made as to whether any of the missing parts are still in dry storage somewhere. The TVR has likely been in a project state for some time, and it’s not uncommon to see TVRs in this sort of condition. Whether it’s limited parts availability or just lack of knowledge of what exactly a TVR is, I suspect owners just lose their way with projects like these. If the original engine parts are still in storage somewhere, this TVR could be worth a rescue, but it will be a huge undertaking regardless of whether a generous cache of spares is included.
TVRs were a kind of mixed parts-bin specials, so apart from specific things like door cards and carpets you’re into things like Austin Maxi doorhandles and so on. Engine and gearbox can be had from scrap Triumph saloons – and TR6s. The glass is the rare thing.
These are a blast to drive and handle like a front engined Lotus Elan but with a bit more mass and power. That big rear window gives the car almost convertible visibility from the drivers seat. I think there is also a sun roof which was both factory and after market on these cars.
This is not a car you drive as it is more like a car you wear and one you need to fit. but if you do what a blast. Given the very basic construction and the arability of all the glass this might be far easier a restoration than one might think looking at the photos. The biggest problem will be getting that front hood fitted. That is more like a 4 to 5 man job a couple of cases of beer and a full Saturday. I know been there and done that.
I agree with Bruce , these are a blast to drive , but this one is way to expensive for the condition, need
Listed 25 weeks ago, and they still have it?
I wonder if there is enough room under that “power bulge” to drop in a 3.8 or a 4.2 Jag engine? Plus, and if I remember correctly, the 2500M also had a few examples (prototypes) with a SBF hiding under the bonnet. Worst case, you just find a clapped out TR6 or you could just get it on the road with a drivetrain sourced from a 2.0 GT6 (same basic engine).
I believe in the UK these came with Ford V6 engines. The TR6 engine was meant for the USA as it was already Federalized and approved for sale in the USA.
Looks like the tail lights are TR6
I could be wrong, but I think I remember that the tube frames on these were very prone to rotting out. I am all for a major project, but this one would require a VERY CLOSE frame inspection judging by where it is residing. If close by and priced correctly (and the frame was ok) I would be all over this.
I worked on one of these in the ’70’s. Weird colour. Nice car. You really do either love them or hate them.
Too little car, too much price. Got some seat time in one of the older models and they are fun to drive. Will be a long haul but there is enough here to rebuild into a nice car.