Barn Finds reader Chuck F. knows the way to my wallet, as he has flagged yet another TVR project that’s come up for grabs. This time it’s a rarely seen 1998 TVR S1, imported to the U.S. with its right-hand-drive configuration still intact. The S1 is perceived by many enthusiasts to be a significant model in TVR’s history as it represented the first venture by the company after Peter Wheeler took ownership. The S1 shown here on Facebook Marketplace has been listed a few times over the last few months, and the seller now states that he will consider “respectful offers” against his $13,500 asking price.

The S1 was offered in a few different variations, but the basic design remained largely similar across its production run. The looks here harken back to some of the original TVR models that we know and love, such as the iconic M Series. The short rear overhang, the clamshell hood, the cramped passenger compartment – this was classic TVR styling, and the combination of a modest curb weight with engines that were quite powerful for the chassis also paid tribute to the very genesis of the company’s lineup. The Cologne V6 was once again the go-to engine of choice, with V8 variants later entering the S-series hierarchy.

The seller’s car looks quite clean in photos, with a surprisingly modern cockpit for a TVR hand-built sometime in the late 1980s. As a Series 1 model, I’m guessing this was originally delivered in late 1987. I suspect the RHD configuration alone is a big reason why this S1 hasn’t found a new owner, as it is unfortunately a turn-off for many U.S. buyers. The seller mentions that the S1 was repainted from white and that both the paint work and the interior will need some attention by its next owner. I’m curious as to what exactly that means, as the car shows well enough in photos; however, perhaps it is less compelling in-person, and this is why it has lingered on Marketplace.

The S1 made around 160 horsepower, which is in keeping with some of the 280i and Tasmin models we’ve featured recently. In general, TVRs seem to linger on the various classifieds channels they’re listed on, and I suspect it’s for a few reasons: one, the base of potential buyers for a car like this grows smaller every year, so overall awareness of the brand and its various models is low among new enthusiasts; and two, there’s likely a perception that maintaining a car like this and tracking down parts is far more challenging than other British models. Both concerns are certainly true, but I don’t know that I’d let that stop me from enjoying  a lightweight coupe with a snorty V6 under the hood – and Chuck F. certainly isn’t helping matters.